Overview
Political Ecology is an interdisciplinary field of study that examines the relationships between political, economic and social forces and the environment. It studies the ways in which politics shapes and is shaped by the environment, and how humans interact with and shape their environment. Political Ecology looks at how power dynamics, such as class, gender, race, and colonialism, shape how the environment is used, managed, and perceived. It is used to inform policy decisions, understand the root causes of environmental degradation, promote equity and justice, and address the needs and rights of all users of natural resources. Political Ecology is a key tool for sustainable development, as it can help identify solutions that are both environmentally and socially just.