Entry requirements

BSc 180 credits within the subject areas of natural science and technology and/or within social sciences.

Learning outcomes

After passing the course the student should be able to

• describe the composition of, and interactions between, the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and lithosphere
• identify and describe the occurrence and distribution of the most important abiotic and biotic natural resources on Earth
• explain the connections between natural cycles that set the limitations for formation, occurrence and quality of abiotic and biotic natural resources
• summarise environmental issues that are caused by exploitation and handling of natural resources
• explain and apply the concept of environmental analysis with respect to natural resources and energy usage
• decide which special competences and expert knowledge that are needed in matters of natural resources, and also propose where this competence/knowledge can be found

Content

Abiotic and biotic natural resources' occurrence, formation and distribution on Earth, and fundamental processes affecting these. Global cycles from geological/hydrological and system ecological perspectives. Ecosystem services, ecological processes and biological diversity. Usage of natural resources. Usage of resources, effects on the environment and our health, ecological resilience. Global climate changes. Environmental law.

Instruction

Lectures, project work, study visit, case studies and seminars. Participation in project work, study visit, case studies and seminars is compulsory.

Assessment

Written take-home exam(7 credits). Moreover the compulsory work (project work, study visit, case studies and seminars) (3 credits), must be approved.