Sonia Sonia, MSc Environment, Politics, and Society

From chemistry to global policy: how one student is bridging science, society and environmental justice.

Sonia, a student on the MSc Environment, Politics, and Society programme, joined UCL Geography with a mission to drive real-world change in global environmental governance.

Drawing on her background as an environmental toxicologist in Indonesia, she shares how the course is helping her combine scientific expertise with policy knowledge, and how she’s using her time at UCL to build a career that amplifies community voices on the world stage.

Why did you choose to study an MSc in Environment, Politics, and Society?

“As an environmental toxicologist, I’ve spent my career tackling pollution, hazardous chemicals, and waste governance in Indonesia.

“Working with an environmental NGO on global treaties like the Minamata Convention and the UN’s Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution, I realised that scientific expertise alone isn’t enough—policy knowledge and advocacy skills are crucial for real change.

“This MSc at UCL offered the perfect bridge between science, politics, and society.”

Why UCL?

“UCL’s reputation in environmental governance and its location in London—at the heart of global policy discussions—made it the ideal choice.

“The MSc in Environment, Politics, and Society provides an interdisciplinary approach, allowing me to critically analyse governance, lobbying, and environmental justice.

“The flexibility of the programme means I can tailor my studies to my career goals.”

What’s been a highlight so far?

“I was awarded the Mead and Carter Travel Funds to attend a UN environmental conference in Geneva—an invaluable opportunity to engage with global policymakers.

“The support from the Department of Geography’s faculty has been incredible, particularly working with leading academics like Professor Andrew Barry and Professor Muki Haklay, whose research aligns with my interests in environmental governance and citizen science.”

Future Goals

“I aspire to be a female environmental leader from the Global South, advocating for stronger chemical and waste policies while amplifying the voices of affected communities.

“Long-term, I hope to establish my own NGO focused on environmental toxicology and policy advocacy.”

Would you recommend this course?

“Absolutely! This MSc is perfect for those looking to go beyond technical expertise and understand the political and social dimensions of environmental issues.

“It offers world-class faculty, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world professional development opportunities to help shape global environmental policy.”