Document Type

Other

Publication Date

Fall 12-8-2024

Department

Interdisciplinary Studies

Abstract

This publication is a collection of undergraduate research conducted in the Methods in Environmental Studies course at the University of San Francisco in Fall 2024. The student-led projects explore the intersections of place, policy, ecology, and cultural identity through applied environmental research methodologies. Topics include a decolonial examination of the Forest Park Mound Group and Indigenous resilience in St. Louis; a comparative study of Navajo cosmology and ecological justice; a social and environmental impact assessment of Costa Rica’s National Decarbonization Plan; a psychogeographical analysis of Golden Gate Park and its impact on the psyche, emotions, behaviour, and health of urban residents; an immersive exploration of soundscapes and sonic geographies; an ethnobotanical investigation into Indigenous Pipil healing practices in El Salvador; and a cost-benefit case study of Bioforcetech Corporation’s biochar technology. Utilizing interdisciplinary frameworks, such as political ecology, decolonial methodologies, spiritual ecology, and cost-benefit analysis, these studies critically examine the human-environment relationship. Through fieldwork, interviews, autoethnography, literature review, case studies, and a creative watercolor project, this research demonstrates the value of qualitative and quantitative methods in understanding and addressing environmental challenges. Together, these papers reflect a student commitment to centering equity, resilience, and relational awareness in environmental thinking.

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