Thomas Klak's environmental studies class returns from trip to Dominica

Students in Dr. Thomas Klak’s environmental studies class ENV 376 “Caribbean Sustainable Development” recently returned from a two-week trip to Dominica, where they experienced first-hand the challenges of – and progress toward — sustainable development in the self-proclaimed "Nature Island."

The class, which also fulfills UNE’s Citizenship core requirements, included classroom studies during the fall semester.  During their time in Dominica, students explored tropical island ecosystems, engaged with Dominican partners who are working to achieve sustainable development, and participated in hands-on development projects.

Some of their experiences included working on a fair trade banana farm and learning about Dominica’s economic mainstay crop; visiting a beach where sea turtles lay their eggs; hiking to the world’s only Boiling Lake; and bird-watching for the beautiful Imperial Parrot, Dominica’s national bird and an endangered species.  Students also taught about environmental protection at a local schools and connected with pen pals, with whom they had corresponded during the fall.  View a Facebook photo album

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