A landmark study by UCSB Bren School faculty Sarah Anderson and Mark Buntaine finds that publicly rating local governments on pollution transparency led to long-term improvements in air quality and regulatory enforcement in China.
"Tree Water," an installation by artist Ethan Turpin and UCSB environmental scientist Naomi Tague, visualizes hidden water flows beneath forests, challenging conventional scientific models. Part of the WILDLAND exhibition, the piece merges art and eco-hydrology, offering an immersive perspective on climate and water movement.
Discover how AI’s rapid expansion is fueling unprecedented data center growth and energy consumption. Dr. Eric Masanet reveals the challenges—and potential solutions—for sustainable computing.
A new study finds that conservation efforts go beyond national parks, highlighting Indigenous governance, community management, and eco-certified production as key contributors to protecting 30% of Earth’s land and water by 2030.
A new study suggests a market-based system for 30x30 ocean conservation, letting nations trade credits to cut costs by up to 98% and make marine protection more achievable.
Small changes in farming practices could save as much water as switching crops or fallowing fields. Researchers found that improving irrigation efficiency and adopting better agricultural techniques could significantly reduce water use without drastic land-use changes.
Renowned ecologist David Tilman revolutionized biodiversity science, revealing that more diverse ecosystems thrive and earning the National Medal of Science for his groundbreaking work.
Native and invasive mosquito species populations have exploded as a result of California's significant rainfall during the Winter of 2022/2023. Researchers at Bren are searching for patterns as vector-borne illness spreads.
Droughts can actually have a positive effect on tree growth, contrary to popular belief. Findings show that in cold and harsh environments, drought can actually benefit the trees by extending their growing season and increasing productivity.
California's superblooms attract thousands of visitors to the state's outdoor spaces. But increased traffic to these spaces can cause harmful impacts to the future of the superblooms and California's wildflowers
Researchers with the Rāhui Forum and Research Center empower local communities to manage their natural resources, coupled with contemporary ecological tools
Members of the Bren School community reflect on the danger of wildfire -and impact of wildfires past- as extreme drought conditions become the new normal for the Western US.
