IODLCS0100 - The Environment

Course Description

Description

In today's world characterized by rapid and global environmental changes, it is crucial that citizens have an understanding of the key concepts in environmental science. This course provides students with an introduction to the science behind critical environmental debates and breaks down the requirements for creating and maintaining sustainable ecosystems. A major focus of the course is to develop critical thinking skills and apply them to assess relevant questions such as: How do we predict trends in the growth of populations or climate change? How do human activities impact the nitrogen and phosphorus cycles and how does this in turn affect the environment? How can we quantify and value biodiversity? Should we eat lower on the food chain or are genetically modified crops a sustainable solution? What were the key outcomes of the 2015 U.N. Climate Change Conference in Paris and how will various countries carry out their commitments to protect the environment?