A Planet Under Pressure: Citizens and Scientists Taking Action on Global Warming and Other Threats - A Film and Lecture Series (2011)
April 12, 2012 - Saving Nemo: The Science of Marine Extinctions - Presented by Dr. N. Dulvy, Biological Sciences, SFU | April 12, 2012
Fisheries catches are stagnating and the seas are warming, raising questions as to whether we face the end of the oceans as we know them. We have drawn heavily from our oceans to feed millions but have we done irreversible harm to the biodiversity of our seas? Nicholas Dulvy shares the travelogue of his wanders from library archives to remote islands & coasts to share a story of the state of the oceans & the possible future of marine biodiversity. List associated resource(s)
Abstract and Bio Dr. Nicholas Dulvy, Canada Research Chair in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation, Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University
March 28, 2012 - The Canadian Oil Sands: Economic saviour or environmental disaster? Presented by Dr. David Schindler, University of Alberta | March 28, 2012
The Alberta oil sands are being promoted by industry and government officials as the solution to North American energy needs for the foreseeable future. The impacts of oil sands development have been downplayed in propaganda promoting the oil sands. In this lecture, Dr. Schindler discuses some of the impacts that have been ignored or misrepresented, such as water quality, fisheries, wetland reclamation, carbon sequestration, and treaties with aboriginal communities. List associated resource(s)
March 21, 2012 - It's Wrong to Wreck the World: Climate Change and the Moral Obligation to the Future - Presented by Kathleen Dean Moore, Department of Philosophy, Oregon State University | March 21, 2012
Although climate change is a scientific and technological issue, it is fundamentally a moral issue, and it calls for a moral response. Why has climate-change science elicited such stunning indifference? What calls us to act? How can we respond to the crisis in ways that honor duties of compassion, justice, and respect for human rights? How can we discuss these values across differences? How do we live, when we truly understand that we live in complete dependence on an Earth that is interconnected, interdependent, finite, resilient, and heart-breakingly beautiful? List associated resource(s)
February 23, 2012 Climate Change and Disease: The Known Knowns, the Known Unknowns & Predictions of the Unknown Unknowns of Vector-Borne Diseases in a Changing World Presented by Dr. Carl Lowenberger, Biological Sciences, SFU | February 23, 2012
Insects transmit parasites and pathogens to humans and other vertebrates. Malaria, sleeping sickness and Lyme disease are examples of diseases that are transmitted by insect vectors. Dr. Lowenberger will explore how climate change will affect habitat range extension of vectors of disease and other implications. These unknown unknowns are driving the predictions of what will become the reality of disease transmission in the new era. List associated resource(s)
Abstract and bio Dr. Carl Lowenberger, Canada Research Chair in Parasites and Vectors of Disease, Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University
November 17, 2011 - Can Ecological Restoration Help a Planet Under Pressure? Presented by Dr. Ken Ashley, BCIT | November 17, 2011
By most metrics the planet is under increasing ecological pressure & is currently experiencing a "6th Great Extinction" of species. What's different this time, is that the species extinctions are not caused by natural causes, but by the cumulative ecological footprint of 7 billion humans and their associated technologies. This lecture examines the emerging field of ecological restoration as a way of addressing pressured ecosystems. List associated resource(s)
Abstract and Bio Dr. Ken Ashley, Ecological Restoration Program, BCIT
September 22 - THE COVE and the Connection to Canada - A free screening and discussion | September 22, 2011
A special screening of the 2009 Academy Award winning documentary, THE COVE, with an introduction and discussion by Leah Lemieux, author of "Rekindling The Waters: The Truth About Swimming with Dolphins". THE COVE uncovers horrifying ecological crimes happening worldwide. Leah will reveal the connection to Canada.
To reserve a seat visit www.sfu.ca/reserve List associated resource(s)
May 12 - Free Public Lecture - Green and Virtual Water Management: An Option for Global Food Security presented by Hans Schreier | May 12, 2011
According to the UN projections, we need to increase food production by more than 50% over the next 40 years. Since agriculture is already using 70% of available freshwater, it is unlikely that more water will be available for food production. What are the options and how do we address the global water issues for food? One of the most neglected topics in water management is how to shift attention from blue-water cycle to the green-water cycle. This presentation will provide information on virtual water trade and show how green water management can make a significant contribution to global food security. List associated resource(s)
Abstract and Bio Hans Schreier, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia
May 5 - Free Public Lecture - Generation Us: The Challenge of Global Warming presented by Andrew Weaver | May 5, 2011
This talk will focus on Andrew Weaver's new book which explains, in clear and accessible language, the phenomenon of global warming, outlines the threat it presents to future generations and offers a path toward solutions to the problem. List associated resource(s)
Abstract and Bio Andrew Weaver, Canada Research Chair in Atmospheric Science, School of Earth and Ocean Science, University of Victoria
Mar 10 How to Boil a Frog - A special film screening | March 10, 2011 (See details)
This film is a comedic documentary about the consequences of overshoot: too many people using up too little planet. An everyman dad (Jon Cooksey) gives a satirical overview of our global situation, and five surprising ways we can save civilization while making our own lives better. List associated resource(s)
In an attempt to address possible sources of cadmium to oysters so that oysters could be farmed without concern of high cadmium levels, several research initiatives were undertaken. This invitational workshop established what are the cadmium concentrations and trends of these concentrations in BC shellfish and determined the health risks posed to First Nations from such cadmium concentrations.
Centre for Coastal Science and Management Annual Open House
Each spring the CCSM hosts an open house which showcases some of the current research being done by faculty, students and community partners. The format is brief presentations followed by a poster viewing and reception.
Community Engaged Research: Interconnected Problems Need Interconnected Solutions - Open House 2012 | May 1, 2012
This open house featured issues surrounding climate change, weighing the energy options for BC, aquaculture and the protection of wild salmon, freshwater ecosystems, marine conservation and ecological restoration. List associated resource(s)
An important part of Canadian society, Coastal communities are often the chief stewards of our oceans and coastlines. Working with coastal residents and others, this project seeks ways to build a better future in the face of uncertainty.
Vulnerability in Coastal Communities: Adaptations to Change and Planning for the Future | August 23 - 25, 2003 (See details)
Held in Change Islands, Newfoundland, the goal of this event was to build an understanding about the vulnerabilities and adaptations within the rural coastal communities of the province, draw lessons from best adaptive practices, and develop guidelines for coastal community-based approaches to achieve future sustainability. List associated resource(s)
Examining Best Practices in Coastal Zone Planning: Lessons and Applications for BC’s Central Coast | April 2 - 4, 2003 (See details)
The purpose of this workshop was to learn about past and future plans for the central coast of BC, discuss and reflect on lessons learned from our past, hear about lessons learned elsewhere and make recommendations for future planning efforts. List associated resource(s)
Coastal Communities: Taking Action | April 25 - December 12, 1996 (See details)
This forum was assembled to provide an opportunity for communities along the BC coast to discuss and exchange knowledge on issues related to fisheries and community sustainability. List associated resource(s)
Forum Proceedings: News from Newfoundland Bernadette Dwyer, Chair, Partnership on Sustainable Coastal Communities and Marine Ecosystems in Newfoundland and Labrador
The aim of the series is to create awareness of Canada’s vast marine environment and its importance to Canadians.
Feb. 2, 2012 - Consequences to Canadian Marine Biodiversity of Climate Change, Fisheries and Aquaculture | February 2, 2012
A free presentation featuring the findings of the Royal Society of Canada Expert Panel on Sustaining Canada's Marine Biodiversity: Responding to the Challenges Posed by Climate Change, Fisheries and Aquaculture presented by Dr. Jeff Hutchings (Panel Chair) and other panel members. List associated resource(s)
Lecture Abstract Dr. Jeff Hutchings, Expert Panel Chair and other Panel Members
Speaker Slides Dr. Jeff Hutchings, RSC Expert Panel Chair and Professor, Dalhousie University
Nov 2, 2010 - Exploring the Ocean Frontiers - We Have More to Learn | November 2, 2010
Presented by Dr. Verena Tunnicliffe, (University of Victoria at the Wosk Centre for Dialogue, SFU Vancouver, 7:00 pm. Reservations recommended as seating is limited. To reserve: www.sfu.ca/reserve List associated resource(s)
Video Recording Presented by Dr. Verena Tunnicliffe, University of Victoria
Oct 10, 2008 - Lament for a Nation's Oceans | October 10, 2008 - October 13, 2009
Presented by Dr. Jeff Hutchings, Professor of Biology and Canada Research Chair in Marine Conservation and Biodiversity, Dalhousie University. Presented in St. John's, October 2009 and Vancouver, October 2008 List associated resource(s)
Oct 25, 2007 - One Changing Ocean: A Northern Perspective | October 25, 2007 - January 17, 2008 (See details)
Presented by Eddy Carmack, Research Scientist, State of the Oceans, Fisheries and Oceans Canada. This lecture was presented in Vancouver, January 2008 and Ottawa October 2007. List associated resource(s)
Oct 10, 2006 - Who Speaks for the Oceans and What Are They Doing About it? | October 10, 2006 - May 31, 2007
Presented by The Honourable John Fraser. This lecture was presented in St. John's, October 2006 and Vancouver, May 2007. List associated resource(s)
The goal of the Changing Currents Series is to define a course of action for the future sustainability of oceans.
Projects in this series include the inaugural international dialogue, Changing Currents: Charting a Course of Action for the Future of Oceans which took place in Vancouver in 2005 and the Oceans and the Future of Endangered Coastal Communities workshop which took place in Change Islands, Newfoundland in 2006.
The recent media attention on climate change has left the public grappling with how to understand and address the potentially devastating impacts. In response to this, and to help build understanding of the complexities, Continuing Studies in Science will host a series lectures that will feature multidisciplinary and internationally renowned speakers who will approach the topic from a variety of perspectives.
In commemoration the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin's birth, SFU and UBC hosted a public lecture series with a novel twist on the great man's contributions. Pod casts and abstracts are available.
Darwin and your beliefs | March 5, 2009
Dr. Ara Norenzayan
Evolution and religion have been at loggerheads for 150 years. But can Darwin's theory offer a scientific explanation for the nature and origins of religious belief itself? UBC psychologist Dr. Ara Norenzayan suggests that this is possible, and will present recent and fascinating evidence from the cognitive and social sciences that offers the spectre of a new natural science of religion. List associated resource(s)
Darwin and your sex life | February 26, 2009
Dr. Elizabeth Elle
Not many of us spend time thinking about how and where Charles Darwin fits into our sex lives. But in fact the good gentleman's ideas have a lot more to do with sex than most of us realize. How much can we learn about our own sexual nature from the study of the evolution of sex in other organisms? Join Dr. Elizabeth Elle, Associate Professor in SFU's Department of Biological Sciences, for a fresh look at the mating game. List associated resource(s)
Darwin and your brain | February 19, 2009
Dr. Bernie Crespi
How has your brain been shaped by recent evolution? Can an evolutionary perspective shed light on consciousness, madness, and genius? Dr. Crespi is University Professor of Evolutionary Biology at SFU, and he will present his recently-published, provocative theories, supported by the latest human genome data, on how evolution has made our brains and how our brains have made us who we are. List associated resource(s)
Darwin and your past | February 12, 2009
Dr. Mark Collard
Perhaps one of the most intriguing topics in Biology is the evolution of our own species. So what evolutionary changes have brought us to where we are today? Join Dr. Mark Collard, SFU Professor and Canada Research Chair in Human Evolutionary Studies, for an interdisciplinary look back at our own pre-history. List associated resource(s)
Darwin and your health | February 5, 2009
Dr. Leticia Avilés
Why do we age, suffer from allergies, or develop cancer? Why are we burdened with genetic diseases? Dr. Leticia Avilés, Associate Professor of Zoology at UBC, believes we can use Darwin's theory of evolution to make us healthier. Her talk will consider how basic evolutionary principles can provide insights into human disease and treatment. List associated resource(s)
Darwin and his times | January 29, 2009
Dr. John Beatty and Dr. Greg Bole
There is no doubt that Charles Darwin was one of the most brilliant thinkers in modern history, but few of us know much about him. Who was the man behind the greatest contribution to the field of biology? In the first of this six part seminar series, UBC Philosophy Professor John Beatty, and Dr. Greg Bole of UBC's Zoology Department will present us with a realistic look at Darwin's life and times. List associated resource(s)
Food of the Future? comparing conventional with geneticallymodified food crops: Understanding and managing the risks | May 2 - 4, 2001 List associated resource(s)
Downturns in the Province's fishing and forestry industries have left BC coastal communities searching for economic alternatives that will ensure their survival. One such alternative is the development of offshore oil and gas reserves. While some are urging government to lift the moratorium on exploration drilling, others maintain that the risks to an already threatened fishery and marine ecosystem remain too great and the socio-economic benefits too uncertain. This forum has been designed for participation by key stakeholders including communities, industry, research institutions, industry, labour, environmental and other non-government organizations, along with all levels of government.
Exploring the Future of Offshore OIl and Gas Development in BC: Lessons from the Atlantic | May 17 - 18, 2000 List associated resource(s)
Communities Taking Action for a Low Carbon Future - An invitational Think Tank | April 19, 2011
In 2008 the BC government introduced climate change legislation (Bill C27) requiring local governments to include targets for the reduction of greenhouse gas emission (33% reduction of 2007 levels by 2020) and to describe the policies and actions that they will employ to achieve those targets. Throughout BC local governments are seeking knowledge and practical examples for how to proceed with this mandate. This think tank included a combination of presentations, case studies highlighting initiatives developed a the local level and dialogue to share knowledge about and assess what practical tools are available for local government to employ as they strive to meet the targets set out by Bill C27. List associated resource(s)
This series examines issues that impact the survival of wild salmon in British Columbia.
Managing for Uncertainty: Pathogens and Diseases in Pacific Salmon Invitational Scientists' Think Tank | November 30 - December 1, 2011
Invited Scientists will convene to discuss:
What is known about pathogens & diseases in Pacific salmon and the evolution and ecology of diseases in wild salmon populations?
What are the information and research gaps?
What are the risks for wild salmon populations?
How do we manage for uncertainty? List associated resource(s)
The Ups and Downs of Fraser River Sockeye - A free public presentation | December 6, 2010
A panel of scientists will discuss their findings from an independent think tank on the Fraser sockeye 2010 returns. The think tank will address:
Why was the return so large in 2010?
How can you go from the worst to the best returns in one year?
How do you manage for this kind of uncertainty? List associated resource(s)
Fraser Sockeye 2010 | December 2 - 3, 2010
An invitational think tank of independent scientists to review the Fraser River sockeye returns for 2010. List associated resource(s)
Summit on Fraser River Sockeye Salmon: Understanding Stock Declines and Prospects for the Future. A Public Dialogue | March 30 - 31, 2010
Participants examined issues from a life cycle approach to gain understanding of the challenges salmon face, and what can and should be done to ensure their survival. List associated resource(s)
Adapting to Change: Managing Fraser sockeye in the face of declining productivity and increasing uncertainty. An invitational Think Tank of Scientists | December 7 - 8, 2009 List associated resource(s)
Spotlight on legislation and policy protecting wild salmon biodiversity in BC A Case Study: Interior Fraer coho salmon, A community dialogue, Kamloops | June 23 - 24, 2009 List associated resource(s)
Reconciling the conservation of wild salmon and theproduction of enhanced salmon under Canada's Wild Pacific Salmon Policy: A discussion | February 23 - 24, 2009 List associated resource(s)
Haig-Brown Symposium on Sustaining Wild Salmon: Moving from Words to Action | August 16 - 17, 2008
As part of the Haig-Brown Centenary celebrations, participants addressed the challenges faced in the conservation of wild salmon while exploring what solutions and tools are available and how communities will play a role in the stewardship and management of the resource. List associated resource(s)
A Community Workshop to Review Preliminary Results of 2003 Studies on Sea Lice and Salmon in the Broughton Archipelago Area of British Columbia | January 5 - 6, 2004 List associated resource(s)
Summit of Scientists on the Scientific Underpinning of the 1998 Management Decisions for Pacific Coho Salmon | June 13, 1998 List associated resource(s)
This series of free public lectures highlights exciting research in a variety of fields.
Managing for Uncertainty: Pathogens and Diseases in Pacific Salmon - A reporting of findings from a scientists' think tank | December 1, 2011
A scientists’ think tank will convene at SFU (Nov30-Dec1) to discuss disease & pathogens in Pacific salmon. A panel of these scientists will present their findings. They will address:
• What pathogens & diseases are impacting wild Pacific salmon populations?
• What do we know, what do we not know, and what do we need to know right now?
• What should we consider in terms of interacting stressors, cumulative impacts and diseases?
• How do we manage for uncertainty and the protection of wild salmon? List associated resource(s)
Ten Amazing Years of Ocean Exploration - the Census of Marine Life Concludes a Decade of Discovery | November 1, 2010
Presented by Dr. Paul Snelgrove, Memorial University. This lecture will be presented at 2:30 pm at the Halpern Centre on SFU's Burnaby Campus and at 7:00 pm at the Vancouver Aquarium. Reservations recommended as seating is limited. List associated resource(s)
Video Recording Presented by Dr. Paul Snelgrove, Memorial University of Newfoundland
Adapting to Change: Managing Fraser sockeye in the face of declining productivity and increasing uncertainty | December 9, 2009
Continuing Studies in Science A panel of scientists discuss the conclusions from a think tank on declining productivity and increasing uncertainty with Fraser Sockeye. List associated resource(s)
Double, double toil and trouble : The science, the policy, and the politics of Canada’s Species at Risk Act | October 21, 2009
Presented by Dr. Arne Mooers List associated resource(s)
Abstract and Bio Zamir Punja, Centre for Environmental Biolgoy, SFU
Waves, Quantum Mechanics, and the Internet: Some of the Science and Engineering Behind Optical Communication | March 16, 2000 List associated resource(s)
March 21, 2012 - It's Wrong to Wreck the World: Climate Change and the Moral Obligation to the Future - Presented by Kathleen Dean Moore, Department of Philosophy, Oregon State University Video Excerpts of key points from Full Length Video
March 28, 2012 - The Canadian Oil Sands: Economic saviour or environmental disaster? Presented by Dr. David Schindler, University of Alberta Video Recording of Full Presentation
March 21, 2012 - It's Wrong to Wreck the World: Climate Change and the Moral Obligation to the Future - Presented by Kathleen Dean Moore, Department of Philosophy, Oregon State University Video Recording of Full Presentation
April 12, 2012 - Saving Nemo: The Science of Marine Extinctions - Presented by Dr. N. Dulvy, Biological Sciences, SFU Abstract and Bio
