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

The unit examines the way in which the international community is tackling existing and future environmental problems - including ozone layer depletion, climate change, destruction of biodiversity, heritage conservation, disposal of hazardous waste. The 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Brazil has seen a development of international environmental law and policy. The Australian Government has adopted a high profile in international negotiations on environmental matters. In addition Australia has already felt the effect of international obligations in respect of world heritage sites and climate change.

Objectives

On completion of this subject students should

1. understand the interrelationship between international law and international environmental law and how international environmental law has developed as a separate area of law;
2. have acquired a comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of international environmental law, including its historical development, conventions and treaties that have been negotiated to deal specifically with global environmental problems;
3. have extended their basic understanding and knowledge of how the international community has addressed global environmental problems;
4. be able to critically analyse the ways in which global environmental problems are addressed by the international community in particular the adoption of framework conventions and protocols;
5. demonstrate a capacity to conduct systematic research on some specific topic of International Environmental law; and
6. have an appreciation of future issues of relevance to the development of this area of law.

Assessment

Research paper (2500 words): 50% and take-home examination: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Gerry Nagtzaam

Contact hours

Three hours of lectures per week

Prerequisites

LAW1100 or LAW1101 and LAW1102 or LAW1104

Co-requisites

LAW4122