Featured News and Events
How everyday beauty products could pose a toxic health threat
A new study co-authored by Bhavna Shamasunder, lead investigator and ES faculty member, reveals that formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, is present in many everyday personal care products, particularly those marketed to Black and Latina women. The research found that over half of participants used products with formaldehyde-releasing preservatives on a daily basis, raising concerns about long-term health risks such as cancer and reproductive harm.
The study was led by Robin Dodson of the Silent Spring Institute and highlights the need for stronger regulation and clearer labeling to better protect consumers, especially women of color.
UCSB Professor Explores Possibility of Recovering California Grizzly Bear
Rebecca Caraway, Noozhawk Staff Writer (05/03/2025) -
A recent study by UCSB environmental historian Peter Alagona suggests that reintroducing grizzly bears to California is feasible, highlighting suitable habitats in regions like the southern Sierra Nevada and near Santa Barbara. While two-thirds of Californians support the idea, concerns about human-bear conflicts persist, necessitating careful planning and community engagement for a successful reintroduction.
The Ecological Society of America has named Dudney as one of its 2025 Early Career Fellows
Harrison Tasoff, The Current (04/29/25) - Joan Dudney, ecologist and faculty member in UCSB’s Environmental Studies Program, was named a 2025 Early Career Fellow by the Ecological Society of America for her groundbreaking research on how climate change, drought, and disturbance impact forest ecosystems.
Environmental Studies Major Shares Experience with Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Project (CLYLP) Comcast Fellowship
Vivienne Chankai, Environmental Studies Major (3/26/2025) - "My time in Sacramento gave me an understanding of how advocacy translates to community building, which has greatly helped me do as an Advocacy Co-Chair for UCSB’s Environmental Affairs Board."
Degrees Offered
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Environmental Studies, and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Hydrologic Sciences and Policy.
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The Environmental Studies Program offers a wide variety of courses covering a diverse field of disciplines and topics. Please see our course offerings below.
Internships
Internships are an invaluable part of the undergraduate experience. Click below to see how you can get credit through ENV S 192 for your internships!
Building a Movement
Check out the inspiring documentary encompassing 50 years of Environmental Studies at UCSB, recounted by professors, students, and graduates.
Header Image Credit: Michael Montgomery