The Environment Canada Policy Research Seminar Series

Dr. James Kay September 28, 2001

On Friday, September 28, 2001, the Environment Canada Policy Research Seminar Series hosted Professor James Kay for his presentation entitled "Ecosystems as complex systems: Using this approach in policy". James J. Kay is Associate Professor of Environment and Resource Studies at the University of Waterloo. The following is a précis of Dr. Kay's talk.

In both modern science and society, the underlying assumption or belief that Newtonian, linear causality can explain the mechanics and structure of a wide range of multi-dimensional systems and associated problems is intuitive to many people. However as the complexity of these systems and their associated problems increases, different approaches and viewpoints must be taken to ensure useful system analysis of the situation.

Complex Systems thinking is an analytical tool that is utilized to explain complexity. It has been used to develop an ecosystem approach as a way of understanding and managing our role in the biosphere.

Complex Systems thinking, utilizes many different conceptual tools, including non-linear behavior (feedback loops), attractors, flips, chaos, nesting and self-organization to explain the dynamics of ecosystems. All of these concepts involve a deviation from linear thinking and allow in-depth analysis to be undertaken of natural systems.

Complex systems theory and its application to ecosystem approaches can be a valuable framework for policy and management because it prompts a paradigmatic shift towards a more holistic and multidisciplinary view of environmental systems and the interrelated effects they have on other natural and societal systems. Complex systems thinking also brings forth new challenges, as both scientists and policy makers will have to meet on the same level to apply the above principles to create adaptive ecosystem management policies for to a range of present and future concerns.

Biography

James Kay is an Associate Professor of Environment and Resource Studies (with cross-appointments in Systems Design Engineering, the School of Planning, Geography and Management Sciences) at the University of Waterloo. He studied Physics at McGill University and Systems Design Engineering at the University of Waterloo. His Ph.D. thesis was entitled Self-Organization in Living Systems.

His research, over the last twenty five years, has focused on complexity and systems theory and their application to the development of an ecosystem approach as a way of understanding and managing our role in the biosphere. His research activities span the full spectrum from the theoretical and epistemological basis for an ecosystem approach, to the formulation of ecosystem based environmental policy, the development of ecosystem monitoring programs, to on the ground ecosystem planning both in the context of urban, industrial, and natural ecosystems and the greening of institutions.

List of articles and reports by Dr. James J. Kay

1. Kay, J.J. A nonequilibrium thermodynamic framework for discussing ecosystem integrity. Environmental Management (1991) 15 (4) : 483-495.
   
   
2. Kay, J.J. Some notes on : The ecosystem approach, ecosystems as complex systems and state of the environment reporting. -- Waterloo, Ontario : University of Waterloo, 1994. -- 30, [3], 12 p.
   
   
3. Kay, James J. Stuff I have written. Waterloo, Ontario : University of Waterloo, Environment and Resources Studies, 2001.
   Author's bibliography with web links to many full text documents.
   
   http://www.fes.uwaterloo.ca/u/jjkay/pubs/index.html#new
   
   
4. Regier, H.A. & Kay, J.J. An heuristic model of transformations of the aquatic ecosystems of the Great Lakes - St. Lawrence River Basin. Journal of Aquatic Ecosystem Health (1996) 5 (1) : 3-21.
   
   
5. Schneider, E.D. & Kay, J.J. Complexity and thermodynamics : towards a new ecology. Futures (1994) 26 (6) : 626-647.
   
   
6. Tobias, T.N. & Kay, J.J. The bush harvest in Pinehouse, Saskatchewan, Canada. Arctic (1994) 47 (3) : 207-221.
   
   
7. Victor, P.A., Kay, J.J. & Ruitenbeek, H.J. Écologie, économie, et prises de décisions - théories : indicateurs d'un développement écologiquement durable. -- Ottawa : Conseil consultatif canadien de l'environnement, 1991. -- 101 p.
   
   
8. Victor, P.A., Kay, J.J. & Ruitenbeek, H.J. Economic, ecological, and decision theories : indicators of ecologically sustainable development. -- Ottawa : Canadian Environmental Advisory Council, 1991. -- 90 p.