Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit examines the role of government, industry and other stakeholders in environmental management. It introduces, examines, explains, analyses and applies the relevant features of environmental management and its associated tools, including environmental auditing and improvement plans, environmental impact assessment and the use of digital mapping technologies such as Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) . It explores ethical issues associated with environmental decision making. It is concerned with best practice environmental management and is designed to prepare students for a career in natural resource management, drawing case studies from a range of industries.

Objectives

On completion of the unit students will: appreciate the roles and responsibilities of government and the various governmental agencies in environmental matters; understand the purpose, role and structure of environmental management systems and be able to apply them in practical industrial settings; appreciate the role, value and limitations of environmental impact assessment and be able to apply this process; be able to critically examine and evaluate the effectiveness of an environment effects statement; have an appreciation of health and environmental effects from industrially-related activities; have an understanding of the procedures required to plan and manage environmental issues; have an appreciation of the role of environmental ethics in managing environmental issues; and be familiar with the use of digital mapping tools such as Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) in the management of natural resources.

Assessment

Major assignment (2,500 words): 25%
Minor assignment (1,000 words): 10%
Field activity participation and reports: 20%
Examination (3 hours): 45%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Fiona Hogan

Contact hours

Three hours of lectures and one hour of tutorial per week, plus 1-2 site visits/fieldwork

Off-campus attendance requirements

OCL students undertake a non-compulsory 2-day residential school program

Prerequisites

ENV1711 or ENV1800