Environmental Catastrophes

Overview

Environmental catastrophes occur when there is a rapid departure from normality and humans and/or ecosystems are unable to adapt. This module aims to give students a deep understanding of environmental catastrophes in terms of causes, mechanisms, and consequences. We will investigate natural and human-caused catastrophes over a variety of temporal and spatial scales (past-present-future).

This module will cover important geographical topics including geohazards (e.g., volcanic eruptions, tsunamis and storm surges), and human-induced catastrophes (e.g., pollution, radiation disasters, loss of biodiversity and habitat destruction). In addition, we will investigate catastrophes that have been driven by natural factors in the Earth’s past, but are now being driven by anthropogenic activity (e.g. mass extinctions, rapid climate change). We will also consider theoretical constructs such as the Anthropocene, ecosystem resilience, and tipping points in the Earth System. The field trips will apply theoretical knowledge learned during the lectures into practice. Specific lecture content is subject to change.

Learning Objectives

After completing the module students will:
1. Understand the causes and consequences of past, present, and future environmental catastrophes;
2. Understand and critically evaluate scientific evidence;
3. Develop enhanced skills in scientific writing;
4. Develop enhanced skills in writing detailed essay-based exam answers.

Skills

• time management;
• referencing of published literature;
• data collection, synthesis and evaluation;
• presentation and communication skills;
• ability to communicate complex information to a range of audiences;
• ability to undertake independent learning;
• understanding of how knowledge gained fits into an employable role;
• critical understanding of scientific evidence;
• scientific writing.

Assessment

None