What is critical ecological research?

Critical ecology is an area of environmental research illuminating the direct lines between environmental processes and human equality and liberation. Critical ecology seeks to empirically and mechanistically define the social precursors and consequences of climate change and anthropogenic environmental harms. This is an application of basic science to the real-life practices and structures that promote and maintain social and economic disparities. In addition, critical ecology promotes the development of research methods that are truly equitable and based on respect for indigenous sovereignty and antiracist praxis. By its nature, critical ecology requires investigators to reckon with their own social positions within their research questions and among their colleagues, students, and the public.

​To create a home for this interdisciplinary research, the Critical Ecology Lab works with academic collaborators at the undergraduate, graduate, and career stages as well as community-based organizations. Learn more about our research and collaborations below.