The midterm workshop briefings are the midpoint of semester-long projects on a proposed but not yet enacted environmental law or treaty with an emphasis on management issues. The purpose of the fall-semester workshop is to provide students with the opportunity to manage and implement a public earth system and environmental program.  Since a government agency is not likely to allow us to take over their operations for a semester, we simulate management innovation projects, and address the management problems associated with selecting and operating program changes over a one-year period.  While we are conducting this management simulation, students learn first-hand, the importance of both interpersonal relations and strategic thinking to the process of completing projects in an effective manner.

The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety – Faculty Advisor Professor Tanya Heikkila

The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety provides protection of biodiversity from threats posed by Living Modified Organisms (LMOs). LMOs are the modification of existing genes and the introduction of new genes. While the benefits include the preservation of endangered species, the risks include genetic pollution and unintended impact on target species as well as other species. During their presentation students presented an overview of the protocol, assessed the current US LMO program design, and proposed a program design that would function under supervision the Environmental Protection Agency.

Yellowstone Buffalo Preservation Act – Faculty Advisor Professor Gary Weiskopf

Yellowstone Buffalo Preservation Act addresses the problem of buffalo migrating outside of Yellowstone Park borders. Due to an insurgence of Brucellosis, a disease that causes abortion in cattle and buffalo, buffalo migration becomes a substantial problem for the cattle industry. During their presentations students discussed the legislative aspects of the act and provided a 1st year design outline of their proposed program.

Clean Power Act - Faculty Advisor Professor Eileen McGinnis

The Clean Power Act targets electric power plants and addresses the harmful results of emissions such as: carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, and mercury. In turn the Clean Power Act will help to limit the dangerous effects of global climate change, ground-level ozone, acid rain, and bioaccumulation. The proposed legislative solution reduces emissions by implementing an emissions allowance system which provides flexibility and benefits for the reduction of emissions. Students analyzed the act by further exploring the nature of the public policy problem.

Solid Waste Management - Faculty Advisor Professor Steve Cohen

Both landfilling and incineration are New York City’s methods of waste disposal. This method of waste management is problematic due to the gaseous emissions and groundwater contamination. Current legislation has been in opposition to solving the waste problem in New York City. Students proposed a program design that would effectively implement the use of alternative technologies of waste management.

Watershed Protection – Faculty Advisor Professor Tanya Heikkila