Showing articles associated with Erika Berenguer
Erika Berenguer is a Senior Research Associate at the Ecosystems Lab in the University of Oxford and a Visiting Research Associate at Lancaster University.
She works in several Brazil-UK consortiums looking at the impacts of human-induced disturbance, such as selective logging and understory fires, in ecosystems functions and processes in the Amazon. Dr, Berenguer co-leads Working Group7 on the Scientific Panel for the Amazon, focusing on the impacts of deforestation and the degradation of both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Her interests lie in developing a better understanding of how human-modified tropical forests function, assessing the resilience of these forests in the face of climate change. In addition, she is passionate about finding ways of effectively communicating scientific results to relevant stakeholders and policy makers.
Why is Oxford a good place to work in research related to environmental challenges?
In Oxford I have great support and excellent colleagues to discuss the latest science in several environmental issues, including those not related to my area, expanding my horizons.
What is the biggest environmental challenge facing the planet right now?
The biggest environmental challenge facing the planet right now is climate change, but calling it an ‘environmental challenge’ is somewhat reductionist – this is the greatest threat ever faced by humanity, affecting all areas of our lives, from the economy, to migration, health, and political stability.
Despite the challenges, are you optimistic about our future?
Yes – humans are ingenious and can create innovative solutions to seemingly intractable problems. However, we must act immediately to curb the most dangerous impacts of climate change.