Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should have understood the reasons for the rapid growth of the human population; examined the ways in which human populations consume the world's resources and produce waste substances; been introduced to the concept of sustainable development; made actual measurements of key environmental factors.
Synopsis The human species is examined as one competing with others for environmental resources, while exerting various pressures on the environment. Causes and effects of these pressures are considered, particularly as they relate to the growth and distribution of populations. The correlation between population growth and resource availability is explored. Displacement of natural communities which has accompanied the growth of human societies is examined. The threat to ecosystems posed by various forms of pollution and nonbiological indicators of pollution are considered.
Assessment Assignment (2000 words): 35% + Laboratory reports, glossary and field report: 35% + Examination: 30%