Climate Crisis and Solutions (20 Credits)

It is widely accepted that we are living during a Climate crisis and the causes of this are well known.  This module does not dwell on the causes but instead the SOLUTIONS. You will investigate the link between biodiversity loss and the rise in temperature but also how restoring biodiversity (such as blue or green carbon sinks) can potentially lower global temperatures and mitigate some of the effects we see.  We will also look into the technological solutions including renewable energy systems.  Whichever route, it will take ‘out-the-box’ solutions to cool our planet and still provide habitat to 8 billion humans.

Green Strategy and Sustainable Economics   (20 Credits)

This module aims to show students that economic growth can be achieved in an environmentally and sustainable world and that one doesn’t not outweigh the other – both are connected towards a secure global environment.  You will explore whether there is an advantage to for companies and charities to go green (or to be seen to be green!) and be ethical. Can circular economies survive? Can zero waste products be achieved? We will be looking at examples of each.

Environmental Investigation (20 Credits)

Rachel Carson’s book ‘silent spring’ brought environmental pollution (especially those not easily seen with the naked eye) into the public form. Now we set minimum and maximum thresholds to safe guard both human and wildlife. In this module, through lab and field surveys, you will gain practical experience in sampling the environment to determine any anthropogenic impacts and make informed decisions towards better environmental management. Whether it is organic or inorganic pollutants in the soil, water or air there are standardised methods and technology to help with any investigation. This module will also look at the role of eDNA in monitoring wildlife and invasive species.  

Environmental Impact Assessment with GIS      (20 credits)

Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) have been around for 3o decades, first from America and Canada and then adopted by the EU community and Britain. They are integral element in ensuring any large scale and potentially harmful developments are scrutinised for the impacts they could have. These impacts are not just environmental, but also archaeological, social or ecological. To help model the impacts base line data is gathered and Geographic information systems (GIS) can help make informed decisions to mitigate any adverse impacts. We will look at the legislation and policy involved.

Environmental System Modelling (20 Credits)

This module will teach students how to model and predict a range of environmental conditions using a range of software and open source data packages. With these packages, and the use  of R and QGIS, you can model local climate conditions, river catchments and nutrient enrichment as well as human and wildlife populations.  

Action Research Project (20 Credits)

This module will be your chance to investigate a particular issue in your local environment, find out what the impacts are and most importantly the solutions. You will produce a short scientific report and get chance to talk about your findings to your peers.