Initial Publication Date: April 19, 2023

Brian Robert Shmaefsky

Professor of Environmental Science, Lone Star College - Kingwood

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About Me

I am an environmental scientist who applies his scientific knowledge in environmental justice projects. I believe it is important to engage in sustainable development practices that help their communities and have global impacts on reducing natural resource exploitation. Part of my work involves using phytoremediation to reduce soil and water pollution. In my free time I enjoy nature and to art.

Focus of current FEW-Nexus-based education work

My teaching and professional work is directly related to understanding the complex FEW human-natural systems as well as developing projects aligned with the UN SDGs which address the most significant global challenges of today and tomorrow.

FEW-Nexus-based education experience, expertise and interests

Most of my curriculum includes case studies that teach students how to result wicked complex environmental science issue. I bring years of experience as a professional environmental science who also volunteers on local and national natural resource conservation committees. I also serve as an AAAS On-call Scientist which involves working with communities and NGOs on environmental justice projects. In addition, I am on the Ecological Society of America Education Committee. I am looking for colleagues who can provide me with their personal experiences for developing educational case studies.

Publications, presentations, and other references

  • Shmaefsky, B. R. (2020). Principles of phytoremediation. Phytoremediation: In-situ Applications, 1-26.
  • Shmaefsky, B. R. (2005). MOS: The critical elements of doing effective classroom demonstrations. Journal of College Science Teaching, 35(3), 44.