BIOL 5665

Hacking the Blue Planet

Lec 01 selected

This course explores the biology, ecology, biogeochemistry and ethical and legal dimensions of purposeful ocean fertilization. Through lectures, discussion, case studies, and group projects, students consider the biological and oceanographic basis of ocean fertilization and its use as a 1) scientific tool and 2) controversial geoengineering strategy for climate change mitigation.

Sections

Lecture

From the syllabus

From the Fall 2024 syllabus by Erin Bertrand. Fall 2026 is taught by MacNeil L., so details may differ. Open the PDF

Grading

25%Problem sets (2)Equally weighted
20%Self and peer evaluations
15%Personal reflections (3)
15%Discussion-leading and participation
25%Research proposalIncludes topic, draft, peer review, presentation, final proposal, reflections

Textbooks

  • Ecological Stoichiometry, Sterner and Elser (free)
  • Consider a Spherical Cow, Harte (free)
  • Biological Chemistry of the Elements, Frausto da Silva and Williams (free)
  • Marine Biogeochemistry, Libes (free)

Course rules

Attendance
Attendance and participation are strongly recommended; the three lowest peer and self evaluation scores are dropped.
Late work
A six-hour grace period applies; thereafter, assignments lose 10% per day unless extenuating circumstances are discussed.
Problem sets
Students may collaborate and use resources but must name helpers, show work, upload by the deadline, and submit a paper copy next class.
Due dates
Contact the instructor early to arrange flexibility for conflicts with major cultural or academic events.
Missed work
Documentation for illness or compassionate reasons must be submitted within one week of the due date.

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