RESEARCH PROJECT IDEAS
Comprehensive nature of this course opens unlimited opportunities for students to explore ANY topic of interests related to the theme of this class. That means, you have no limitations in selection of the topic of your research.
Choice of the topic can be based on different approaches. First, you can do it in conjunction with what you already know well (your job, or hobby) to further develop your knowledge. Second, it may be exactly opposite, -- you can choose something you do not know much about, and wish to educate yourself in this field.
Under no circumstances you make this choice based on availability of the material on Internet, because it is misleading. You NEVER will have any problems with finding enough data; it always will be exactly the opposite: too much information to choose from. I.e. the only important factor before you start is -- follow your guts, and choose something you are interested in.
Topics may be related to:
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Particular phenomenon (species of animals; technology, etc.);
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Particular region;
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Problem (plastic pollution of the ocean; overpopulation; habitat fragmentation; loss of biodiversity; politics and energy policy; environmental impact of war, etc.).
Each of these approaches has its own benefits and challenges; i.e., again, follow your interests!
EXAMPLES OF RESEARCH PROJECTS:
Air pollution in California
Conservation of migratory birds
Endangered Species Act
Plastic Pollution of the World Ocean
Amur Tiger: Ecology and Conservation
Deforestation of Rain Forest
Impact of Global Warming on Coral Reefs
Alternative Energy and New Jobs
Social Service for Environmental Refugees
Oil Industry and Politics in USA (Russia, Saudi Arabia, Australia, etc.)
Art and Conservation
Sustainability in Urban vs. Rural Communities
Ecology, Behavior, and Conservation of Sharks
Sustainability in African Folklore
Climate and Pest Control
Sustainability in American Indians Traditions
Urbanization in India
Risk and Benefits of Big Cities
Family Farms vs. Industrial Agriculture in the United States
GMO: Risks and Benefits
Pesticides and Human Health
Impact of Vietnam War on Environment
Global Warming and Water Crisis
Tap Water Quality Around the World
Tourism and Environment
Earth Day: Traditions and Impact
Environmental Education in Europe
Recycling in Japan
Fashion, Over-consumption, and Environment
Best Recycling Technology Around the World
Chemicals in American Houshold
Environmental Impact of Electric Cars
Green Energy vs. Fossil Fuels
Environmental Justice
Urban Wildlife
Environmental Activism and Organized Crime
Illegal Trade of Rare Animals
City Parks and Conservation
American National Parks: Risks and Challenges
GMO and Human Health
Global vs. Local Approach in Conservation
Local Communities and Sustainability
Artificial Chemicals in Biosphere
etc.
If you have any questions regarding what to choose, you are always welcome to discuss it with professor. Do some homework on options you consider; learn about related topics, and if you are still not sure, ask about advice.