This course aims to give students a sound background in the biological and physical systems that create the natural environment of our planet. This basic scientific knowledge is essential for analysing any environmental or resource management problem.

The course starts with an introduction to the uniqueness of planet Earth, and continues with an investigation of Earth's most special feature, life. Students will briefly revisit the laws of thermodynamics and the concepts of systems, feedback and dynamic equilibria before examining global processes, biogeochemical cycles and the interactions between biota and the non-living environment.

The primary focus of the course is biological principles, including the basic chemistry of life (mainly respiration and photosynthesis); terrestrial and marine environments; classification; evolution and change; populations, communities and ecosystems; bioaccumulation; reproductive strategies; biodiversity; population dynamics and harvesting; environmental variability, succession and disturbance. The course also includes modules on soil, agroecology and atmospheric modification.

The course covers a wide field of different science-based disciplines, presented by an experienced communicator, for students who are not scientific specialists, but who possess basic numeracy and an understanding of and interest in environmental issues.

After finishing the course, and completing the necessary study requirements associated with it, students will be able to

• Understand and use accurately the key terms and concepts in environmental science, in particular the nature and of matter and energy, the role of the carbon cycle, photosynthesis and respiration.
• Identify the planet's major climatic regions, biomes and marine zones.
• Understand basic ecological principles, in particular population dynamics, competition, diversity, ecosystem balance and resilience.
• Appreciate both the strength and fragility of living systems.
• Assess primary productivity in different ecosystems.
• Manage ecosystems and reserves with greater skill, using knowledge of species interactions and feedback loops.
• Understand the significance of soil to human society, and be familiar with the major problems affecting soil sustainability and their effect on agricultural productivity and on other ecosystems.
• Understand the composition and function of the atmosphere, and appreciate the linkage between atmospheric composition, climate and human well-being.
• Contribute informed, accurate and scientifically correct input to discussions about environmental management, climate change, and the biophysical basis of society.

Two in-class tests (20% and 25%), essay (15%), final exam (40%).

Three contact hours per teaching week. About 2-3 hours additional work per week, on average, would be necessary for reading, revising and doing required assignments. 

Students considering this course should be confident in basic numeracy and ideally should have studied a science subject to Year 12 level.

No prescribed texts, but a reading list is provided, along with detailed hand-outs written by the lecturer.

A brief field trip is sometimes included.