International Environmental Law and Policy

Introduces students to principles of international environmental law and examines how international organizations, national governments and non-state actors interact to address human impacts on the global environment. Considers effects of treaties, trade agreements and foreign aid on resolution of trans-boundary environmental problems including climate change, marine governance, biodiversity loss and trade in endangered species and hazardous waste. Students negotiate a mock treaty (NEWORLD) to mitigate some aspect of human impact on global change from the perspective of different state and non-state actors. Introductory coursework that addresses some aspects of environmental studies or environmental science is recommended.