ENV404C

Environmental policy and action

Dr Peter Cock and Dr Sharron Pfueller

6 or 8 points -2 hours per week -Second semester -Clayton -Prerequisites: None

Objectives Through a combination of lectures, discussions and simulation exercises, students should become familiar with the dynamics of environmental conflicts, decision making and implementation and will gain experience in evaluation of environmental conflicts and decision options or action strategies and formal systems of conflict mediation.

Synopsis The aim of this subject is to provide students with an opportunity to integrate and develop their knowledge, insights and skills in relation to analysis of and practical responses to substantive environmental issues. Lectures will outline relevant theoretical perspectives and methods of analysis. Guest lecturers, including politicians, environmental managers and activists, will present particular 'interest' perspectives. Pairs of students will investigate selected policy issues from allocated 'interest' or role perspectives; they will then present advocacy submissions to a mock public inquiry and a committee meeting. Participation in a number of simulation exercises is required. The case study or simulation approach will provide experience in (1) integrative analysis of environmental issues and decision processes; (2) practical skills of advocacy presentation; and (3) the perspectives of different social interests in 'real world' situations.

Assessment (6 points - post-1998 students) Two papers (each 500 words): 30% -Team position paper (2500 words): 40% -Team tactical advisory paper (1500 words): 20% -Class contribution: 10%
Assessment (8 points - pre-1998 students) Three papers (100 words): 25% -Team position paper (2500 words): 20% -Team tactical advisory paper (1500 words): 15% -Essay (2000 words): 30% -Class contribution: 10%

Recommended texts

Anon Protecting the environment: A conservation strategy for Victoria Victorian Government Printer, 1987
Birrell R and others (eds) Quarry Australia? Social and environmental perspective on managing the nation's resources OUP, 1982
O'Riordan T Environmentalism Pion, 1976
State Conservation Strategy Task Force Conservation in Victoria Ministry for Conservation, 1983

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