GEO 1050 - ENVIRONMENTAL GEOLOGY

credits: 3.0
This introductory level course provides an overview of our planetary environment with a focus on geological processes. It relates geological studies to human activities, and examines how changes in the earth influence human activities and how human activities alter natural processes. The extent of human impact on the earth’s surface will be evaluated and the use and development of mineral and energy resources will be reviewed. Students will also study geological concepts, waste disposal, water and air pollution, environmental law, land use, and soil as a resource. NOTE: this course does not meet the lab science requirement. Objectives: A) Identify the role of plate tectonics in the formation of Earth features, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes; B) Describe the origins of natural resources; C) Compare and contrast alternative energy sources; D) Explain the causes of soil, air, and water pollution; E) Discuss how human resource consumption and waste disposal impacts the physical environment, including energy, mineral, soil, and water resources; F) Evaluate the risk associated with natural hazards and human response to those risks and connections between human activities and the severity of certain natural disasters; G) Describe human population growth and its impact on the natural world. 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 group assignments (15%).