The POLIS Project

Ecological

The POLIS Project on Ecological Governance is a hub for collaborative and action-oriented research, policy practice, and education, and an integral part of the Centre for Global Studies at the University of Victoria. Our mission is to support ecological thinking and action as a core value and practice in all aspects of society, dismantling the notion that “the environment” is merely another sector.

Since the POLIS Project on Ecological Governance was founded in 2000, our work has encompassed several initiatives, each embodying the principles of ecological governance and working towards a responsible present that supports a sustainable future. Our three current initiatives focus on water sustainability, wildfire resilience, and biocultural ethics.

POLIS Water Sustainability Project

 polis water

At the POLIS Water Sustainability Project, we develop cutting-edge research and share solutions, best practices, and opportunities for reform with those working on the ground (and in the water), including communities, experts, all levels of government, and non-governmental and Indigenous organizations. By combining practical research with community action, we demonstrate the powerful potential of new governance approaches and work to drive innovative law reform to generate change towards a sustainable and secure freshwater future. Learn more>

POLIS Wildfire Resilience Project

 wildfire 3

At the POLIS Wildfire Resilience Project, we initiate transformative change towards a better future by offering innovative solutions to advance wildfire resilience. We work with all levels of government, local communities, industry, experts and researchers, and civil society to offer new perspectives, innovative ideas, and practical solutions to catalyze the change we need so we can all live more confidently with fire. Learn more>

POLIS Biocultural Ethics Initiative

 biocultural

Our POLIS Biocultural Ethics initiative explores the value systems underlying the ways we treat one another and the natural world — across different cultures, geographies, generations, and species — to create guidance, shape policies, and build capacities for relational accountability and response-ability as part of the web of life.