Evolution is best known for long-term processes that occurred in the past. But evolution is also happening right now, and it can be unexpectedly rapid and ubiquitous. In fact, it is inevitable, because the adaptations needed today may arise from the emergence of new genetic variants or the recombination of existing ones. Therefore, a proper understanding and effective coping with environmental problems cannot be pursued without taking into account that many environments are constantly changing. In today's world, most of these changes are in response to the unprecedented alteration of all of nature by one species, Homo sapiens. The course will review the major concepts of evolutionary biology needed to understand the history of life on Earth. Its primary goal, however, will be to show that the same principles apply to the study of contemporary processes. Students will analyze examples of evolution in laboratories, fields, industrial plants, hospitals, and other man-made environments. This will help discover the power and limitations of natural selection in its application to environmental protection and management. The course will include lectures and discussions accompanied by basic computations and modeling.