Environment and Society in Croatia
Yael Teff Seker
Plant Sciences
Dr. Yael Teff‑Seker is an environmental sociologist at UC Davis whose work bridges cultural ecosystem services, marine conservation, and environmental peacebuilding. She holds a Ph.D. in Social Studies and collaborates with partners across the Middle East, Europe, and beyond to advance community‑centered sustainability. Her research integrates social psychology, conflict transformation, and environmental policy to support cooperative, evidence‑based environmental governance.
A Message to Students and Parents
Since I obtained my Ph.D. in 2014, I have been conducting research on marine conservation and how it meets societal needs. My research addresses international trends in environmental planning and policy, especially those related to marine environments, and it has brought me to Europe many times, specifically to Croatia and the Adriatic (you can see some of my published work on these topics on Google Scholar).
Working abroad has truly changed me as a scientist, and I believe a person cannot be a social or environmental scientist without understanding what happens in other parts of the world and developing the cultural knowledge and sensitivity that can only come from these experiences.
Why did I choose Lošinj, Croatia? When I visited the island in 2018 to work on a project with the Blue World Institute, I fell in love with the place. The island is beautiful, and you can often see dolphins from the shoreline. It is also home to seals, sea turtles and many other species. Its breathtaking scenery, hidden beaches, and Venetian and Adriatic cultural heritage, combined with the Blue World Institute's commitment to conservation and public outreach, make it the perfect setting for teaching Society and Environment abroad.
Lošinj is also very safe and welcoming. The local community is accustomed to visitors, and despite its semi-remote location, most residents speak English. The food is excellent, with influences from Italian and Eastern European cuisine, the island is technologically connected with Wi-Fi available in most places, and the streets are safe, even at night.
I truly believe Lošinj is the ideal location for a course that feels like an adventure while providing exceptional academic opportunities and meaningful scientific and cultural experiences in a beautiful and welcoming environment."