The Collaborative Centre for Climate, Health & Sustainable Care is launching a new event series entitled: Critical Conversations. Our first Critical Conversation will be on The Aral Sea and Ecocide, hosted by Dr. Ross Upshur.
The Aral Sea, once the fourth largest inland body of water in the world, has progressively receded with immense ecological consequences. The disappearance of the Aral Sea was described by Science Magazine as “perhaps the most notorious ecological catastrophe of human making.” But does this catastrophe constitute ecocide? In this seminar, Dr. Upshur will explore the evolving concept of ecocide as the “fifth crime against peace” and assess whether a prominent definition of ecocide would include the Aral Sea disaster. As well, it will be critically examined whether ecocide should be conceived exclusively as a criminal act.
This is a hybrid event, limited tickets available!
September 18, 2025 (hybrid, in-person & online)
In-person*: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. (lunch provided from 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m.)
Location: 155 College Street, Room 412
Online: 12-1 p.m.
Zoom link provided upon registration
Back to News & Celebrates