Climate Currents
Climate Currents is a student-created publication that features diverse perspectives throughout environmental science. A team of 9 early career fellows give voice to those experiencing climate change and other environmental…
Projects
Antibiotic resistance in Southern California surfers
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Each year in the U.S., at least 2 million people get an antibiotic-resistant infection, and at least 23,000 people die” (2018).…
Diesel truck emissions in Port of Los Angeles
Communities living in proximity to diesel hotspots — such as ports, rail yards, distribution centers and freight roadways — disproportionately bear the negative health impacts associated with diesel exhaust. They…
Effective on-screen sustainable behavior and message placement
More than ever before, streaming services and television are easily accessible and readily available in society. 55 million Americans are subscribed to Netflix and 94 million Americans pay for television…
How competing Los Angeles River revitalization plans will affect surrounding communities
In 2007, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa released the city’s master plan to revitalize the Los Angeles River. Today, the concrete channel is seeing an influx of investment aimed at…
Impacts of Sea Grass on Ocean Acidification in the Santa Monica Bay
Hi everyone! Our team is part of the IOES senior practicum project at UCLA. We are a group of undergraduates researching ocean acidification in the Santa Monica Bay. The practicum…
Known and emerging risks to small island developing states
Islands are particularly vulnerable to environmental risks from climate change and natural disasters. These risks can be especially hazardous to a small-scale island economy and have cascading effects; for example,…
Reducing Wildfire Risk in Southern California
Wildfires in California are becoming more frequent and destructive, resulting in increased loss of property and life. In November 2018 alone, fires throughout the state caused up to an estimated…
Sustainable ebony production in the Congo Basin
Rainforests have long been recognized for their importance to the entire planet. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, something all animals need to survive. They are also home to…
UAV-Based Gas Sensor Systems Help Control Air Pollution From Ocean-Going Vessels
Ships burn thick oil known as residual fuel. Residual fuel comes from the bottom of barrel and is the leftover black liquid from gasoline and diesel. This highly toxic substance…
Using life cycle analysis to increase restaurant sustainability
In today’s fast-paced world, restaurants — and delivery via convenient smartphone applications — offer convenient alternatives to cooking at home. They also generate a lot of waste. Restaurants must meet…
Western Pond Turtle at-risk species assessment
The western pond turtle is California’s only native freshwater turtle. The turtle’s numbers have been declining due to urbanization, limited water availability, and competition or predation from invasive species —…