Blog

A new paper led by SERS PhD student Mackenzie Jones in Dr. Chantel Markle’s Lab takes a global look at how researchers are studying the interactions between ecology and hydrology, an interdisciplinary field known as ecohydrology. Find out how we can advance wildlife ecohydrology research and how it can help guide future conservation and management efforts. There's a wonderful infographic which communicates the information as well.

Have you considered the environmental impacts of industrial tequila production?

While many consume the beverage, in Jalisco State in Mexico, the region’s ecosystems are being destroyed and replaced by a uniform crop that is prone to pest outbreaks.

Prof. Brendon Larson and colleagues outline several issues with industrial production of tequila and highlight a shift to the more traditional use of mezcal.

After a period of time in an administrative role, Dr. Ian Rowlands returned to the rhythm of being a 'regular' professor. He offered a brand new, experiential learning course on "Energy and Society in Ontario" which comprised classroom and field trip instruction.

Interested in seeing the world, while also building career and research skills?

Third year ERS student Jordan Wilton spent two months of the spring 2025 term studying environmental issues through the Beyond Borders: Field School in Ghana. Check out the blog and video diary Jordan created during the course.

Prof. Bob Gibson urges the federal government to assess the benefits, risks and uncertainties of proposed national interest projects openly and thoroughly before granting pre-approvals.

Prof Bob Gibson presents background on regional assessments taking place for the Ring of Fire area – the northern Ontario’s hot prospect mining area improbably named after a 1960s Johnny Cash song.

Despite all the hurry-up moves, the extent and timing of any Ring of Fire mining remains anyone’s guess.

A thirst for water knowledge brought Isabel Jorgensen ‘across the pond’ to Waterloo to undertake PhD studies in water in an interdisciplinary setting.

A photography-based study with Conservation Halton and SERS researchers offered a practical, low-cost engagement method with community members to reflect on connections to Hamilton Harbour and their support for local conservation initiatives culminating with a well-attended exhibition of the photos.

Samantha Terry (BES '25), an Ojibwe student from Temagami First Nation, shares her inspiring journey of reconnecting with her Indigenous identity while thriving in co-op roles and building community at the University of Waterloo.

Dr. Leah Jones-Crank reflects on the spring 2025 field trip course which explored the complexity of urban sustainability through a case study of Singapore. As the 10-day field course progressed, the 20 students and two instructors engaged their critical thinking skills to reflect on the environmental, social, and economic connections within Singapore.