Book by LBC faculty member Jon Wlasiuk explores Cleveland’s environmental history

May 16, 2025 - Adrianna Orlando

Jon Wlasiuk, assistant professor in the Science and Society group at Lyman Briggs College, published a book in October that offers an exploration of Cleveland’s environmental history and its intersection with issues of environmental justice. The book is entitled "An Alternative History of Cleveland" and was published by Belt Publishing.

Wlasiuk’s scholarship focuses on the ways human societies interact with their environments, and his latest work “uncovers the mysteries, devastations, and human incursions that have shaped the region.” By examining Cleveland’s industrial rise, ecological challenges, and environmental movements, Wlasiuk’s book provides an in-depth look at how industry, politics, and grassroots activism have shaped the city over time. 

Since its publication in October, the book has received attention in both academic and public circles. Wlasiuk has been interviewed twice about the project: once by Ideastream Public Media, where the discussion centered on the environmental and historical focus of the book, and again by the Writerscast podcast, which explored not only the book’s themes but Wlasiuk’s personal journey including his childhood influences and how they shaped his research interests.

We invite you to visit Wlasiuk’s LBC directory page, where you can find more information about his work. Cleveland Magazine has also featured a book introduction in an issue. The significant and meaningful contributions that Wlasiuk has made to the study of environmental history and justice are undeniable.