Thurs., March 26, 1-2:30 pm - Energy & Environment Forum - Toyota Auditorium
Jennifer Dunne, Ecological Networks, Santa Fe Institute presents "Ecological networks: A
framework for studying sustainability of coupled natural-human systems"
Most studies of the relationships of humans and ecosystems are presented in terms of
human impacts on ecosystems. However, our ability to understand and mitigate such
impacts depends on research that identifies the roles humans play in ecosystems including
how they interact with other species. Analysis and modeling of food web structure and
dynamics provides a useful framework for quantifying ecological roles and impacts of
species including humans. Such research is providing a new way to explore questions
related to the sustainability of coupled natural-human systems. This talk will highlight
several projects that address how humans fit into and impact ancient, historic, and current
ecosystems using an ecological network framework.
Free & open to the public!
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