ENV 1010 - INTROD TO ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

credits: 4.0
Environmental problems, population growth, wasteful use of resources, destruction and degradation of wildlife habitats, and the extinction of plants and animals are growing at an exponential rate. This course introduces basic biological, chemical and physical concepts and principles from an environ- mental perspective. Additionally, the roles and responsibilities of humans will be examined with regard to scientific, political, economic, and ethical issues involved in a sustainable future. Objectives: A) To introduce basic biological, chemical and physical concepts and principles from an environmental perspective; B) To examine the roles and responsibilities of humans with regard to scientific, political, economic, and ethical issues involved in the attainment of a sustainable future; C) To observe and understand the following through lecture, laboratory exercises and case studies: Forms of matter and energy, Basic ecological principles (populations, communities and ecosystems), Biogeochemical cycles, Evolution, speciation, and extinction, Natural resources, Human population growth, and resource use, Environmental quality, and Environmental policy from an economic, political, and ethical perspective. Method of Instruction: Lecture, laboratory activities, case studies, team projects, and field trips. Method of Evaluation: Written exams (30%), lab work (35%), term project (20%) and individual and group assignments (15%).