Introductory description

This module focuses on providing the students with an understanding of the environmental and safety risks associated with technology together with methods for limiting damage and risk.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

1. Introduction to the anthropocene and the ways human activity has affected the environment
2. The ecosystem services concept
3. Pathways for release of microbial and chemical contaminants into the environment
4. The characteristics and properties of chemicals released into the environment from agricultural, industrial and medicinal applications
5. Factors determining the fate and persistence of chemical pollutants in the environment, including the importance of degradation and sorption
6. The concept of bioavailability
7. Antibiotic release into the environment and links to antimicrobial resistance
8. Release of genetically modified organisms into the environment
9. Ecotoxicological concepts and evidence using topical examples
10. Environmental and regulatory risk assessment

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Understand the critical issues which determine the contrasting perceptions of environmental pollution and ecotoxicology by different stakeholders.
• Evaluate links between release of contaminants into the environment and consequences for human exposure and health.
• Achieve a broad understanding of the ways in which human activities have impacted the environment
• Understand the pathways by which different organic and biological pollutants enter the environment and the factors which determine their fate and persistence.
• Develop an ability to critically evaluate evidence for ecotoxicological impacts of chemicals Understand approaches used to undertake and interpret environmental impact and regulatory risk assessments.
• Understand approaches used to undertake and interpret environmental impact and regulatory risk assessments.

Indicative reading list

Review and journal papers are used through the module to illustrate key points and to provide examples; there is no course text book.

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

Understand approaches used to undertake and interprete environmental impact and regulatory risk assessments.

Transferable skills

Critical evaluation