Spending time in nature is good for us. Studies have shown that contact with nature can lift our well-being by affecting emotions, influencing thoughts, reducing stress and improving physical health. Even brief exposure to nature can help. One well-known study found that hospital patients recovered faster if their room included a window view of a natural setting. Knowing more about nature’s effects on our bodies could not only help our well-being, but could also improve how we care for land, preserve ecosystems and design cities, homes and parks.
Read more at UW News »Navy Growler jet noise over Whidbey Island could impact 74,000 people’s health
New research from the University of Washington shows that the noise from Navy aircraft isn’t just disruptive — it presents a substantial risk to public health.
Read more at UW News »Marine and Environmental Affairs students support Indigenous voices in video storytelling project
The project, a collaboration between the University of Washington and Chief Leschi Schools, sought to simultaneously create leadership opportunities for students, and cultivate a lasting partnership between the academic community and the largest of seven tribal schools in the state of Washington.
Read more »School of Marine and Environmental Affairs celebrates 50th
The School of Marine and Environmental Affairs (SMEA) turned 50 this academic year, so we asked Nives Dolšak, professor and director of SMEA, and Dave Fluharty, professor and longest serving SMEA faculty member, for their perspectives on this milestone. With 11 core faculty and strong support from professors of practice, adjunct, affiliate and emeritus faculty, SMEA offers a two-year, interdisciplinary, in-residence program with graduates receiving a Master of Marine Affairs degree.
Read more »Plastic pollution in the oceans is an equity issue, says UW-led report
Many people are aware of plastic pollution in the oceans. Photos of turtles or seabirds entangled in plastic garbage first went viral in the 1990s, and the Great Pacific Garbage Patch is now the focus of highly publicized cleanup efforts. Less recognized is how marine plastic waste affects human populations, and the unequal burden on different communities. A report, “Towards an Equitable Approach to Marine Plastics Pollution,” outlines the current situation and attempts to address the problem.
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