Institute for Resources Environment and Sustainability

Event: Climate Emergency Week at UBC highlights collective action

his week through Feb. 16 is Climate Emergency Week at UBC, building on the university’s declaration of a climate emergency in 2019 and a climate action report in 2021 that focuses on climate justice.

Feb 6, 2023

A grizzly bear walking on a logging road in the South Chilcotin Mountains of BC. Credit: Robin Naidoo

Canada ranks third worldwide in permeable landscapes for wildlife

Canada ranks third in the world for animal movement between protected areas, finds new UBC research.

Jun 2, 2022

UBC Forestry’s Cool ‘Hood Champs program workshop facilitator Dr. Stephen Sheppard (front) asks participants questions during a neighbourhood climate action session recently held in Vancouver.

UBC researchers are helping communities prepare for the effects of climate change

The 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) takes place next week and one of its four goals is to help countries adapt to climate change in order to protect communities and natural habitats.

Oct 26, 2021

UBC experts on 2021 Canadian federal election

UBC experts are available to comment on various election issues.

Sep 21, 2021

Marginalized groups experience higher cumulative air pollution in urban Canada

Different marginalized groups are exposed to higher cumulative air pollution in Vancouver, Montreal and Toronto, according to new research from the University of British Columbia.

Dec 21, 2020

How the human right to a healthy environment can help protect us all

From the COVID-19 pandemic to the raging wildfires in Australia and the U.S., scientific evidence shows an increase in planetary environmental emergencies that pose a risk to Canadian and global communities.

Oct 27, 2020

A sea otter in the waters off Vancouver Island. Credit: James Thompson

Recovery of sea otter populations yields more benefits than costs

The long-term benefits of thriving otter populations – such as healthier kelp forests, higher fish catches, carbon storage and tourism – could be worth as much as $53 million per year, according to new UBC research.

Jun 11, 2020

Ocean Wise wild salmon with local herbs and berries from Scholar's Catering.

UBC goes all in for sustainable seafood

UBC has announced it will purchase and offer only 100 per cent Ocean Wise recommended sustainable seafood beginning July 1, 2019.

Jun 7, 2019

Making bins more convenient boosts recycling and composting rates

Want to recycle or compost more? Try moving the bins closer, new UBC research suggests.

Apr 20, 2017

‘The status quo isn’t good enough’: UBC launches Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs

A new professional program at UBC will train students to address the pressing issues of the 21st century, including human rights, climate change, poverty, security and risk.

Sep 9, 2015

Scientists eager to participate in public discourse on environment

A survey of more than 500 researchers indicates that scientists have the desire to get more involved in public discussion and policy decisions regarding environmental issues, but have concerns about how their efforts might be perceived.

Apr 2, 2014

Self-worth boosts ability to overcome poverty

For people in poverty, remembering better times – such as past success – improves brain functioning and increases their willingness to seek help from crucial aid services.

Dec 17, 2013

Making food policy more sustainable

A UBC student is one of 14 recipients of the 2013 Trudeau Foundation Scholarship, worth $180,000 over three years.

May 17, 2013 - by Chris Lane