About the course:
Where does our energy come from? How are fossil fuels extracted and how does that impact people? What the frack is fracking? What alternatives are there to current methods of energy extraction and how do we work towards climate justice?
In October 2014, California aquifers were contaminated with fracking wastewater. How does this affect us? What other instances has energy extraction had direct consequences on local communities and what can be done about it?
This course aims to introduce students to the impacts of extreme forms of fossil fuel extraction (with an emphasis on fracking) on public health, local economies, ecosystems, natural resources, and agriculture. In this course, students will be exposed to alternatives of the current energy infrastructure and will be empowered to take action based on community engagement and grassroots organizing. Additionally, students will acquire tools to hold California’s policy makers accountable to make responsible decisions for our future, and engage in political action to instigate tangible changes in local, state, and national level.
How to Enroll: Enrollment is on first come, first serve basis.
Course Contact: shrutichari AT berkeley.edu, s_klein AT berkeley.edu, emalis AT berkeley.edu
Faculty Sponsor: Ron Amundson