UCCI students study the environment

(CNS): Students from UCCI’s Environmental Science 101 course took part in a trip to the mangroves earlier this month, with the aim of developing a better understanding of the dynamic interconnections of local natural systems, human impacts and solutions. Studying the impact of human interactions with the environment is the basis of the Environmental Science classes at the University College of the Cayman Islands, the college says.

Marnie Laing, the Adjunct Professor for the class and education director of Sea Elements at the Lobster Pot Dive Center, says that interactive experience in local ecosystems fills an important role in helping to educate young Caymanians on the vital importance of mangroves and why we need to protect it. “The students can learn about the important functions of mangroves in class, but until you explore this beautiful environment, most people don’t understand how much life there is to discover. Within an hour we saw clusters of tunicates, orange encrusting sponge, mangrove oysters, local green herons eating fish among the roots and four migratory brown pelicans.”

Environmental Science student Deino-Karl Escoffery had positive feedback on the excursion: “The trip was definitely a success. The first hand experience was really beneficial; we were able to see up close, where and how mangroves grow and observe the life that is supported by the mangroves. The entire class participated and we learned a lot from the experience.”

UCCI stresses the importance of interacting with the local community through the Science Department. Students of environmental classes are given the opportunity to learn from many leading scientists in Cayman, in both the public and private sectors. Visiting lecturers include experts from organizations such as the Department of Environment, the National Trust and the Department of Environmental Health.

For more information on classes offered at UCCI, please visit www.ucci.edu.ky or contact Administration at 949 9580.