This course presents fundamental ecological concepts and examines their relevance to human-induced impacts on ecosystems, with emphasis on contemporary environmental challenges. Topics include the use and protection of natural resources such as soil, water, forests, minerals, plants, and animal life. The course covers ecological principles, the history of the conservation movement, current issues in resource utilization, and the role of citizens in conservation.
Prerequisites
None.
1. Examine current and projected climate change issues and their environmental consequences.
2. Compare soil types and assess their contributions to ecosystem stability and productivity.
3. Apply the scientific method to evaluate environmental information and interpret evidence‑based conclusions.
4. Analyze global air quality challenges and evaluate scientifically supported mitigation strategies.
5. Evaluate the ecological impacts of various energy production methods and their sustainability implications.
6. Compare and contrast issues related to anthropogenic waste and pollution across global contexts.
7. Analyze ecological principles that support spatial and systems thinking across diverse environments.
8. Assess global freshwater scarcity and water quality challenges affecting human and ecosystem health.
9. Analyze the interactions between natural selection and environmental pressures shaping species adaptation.
10. Integrate scientific data, historical context, and ethical perspectives to guide sustainable decision‑making.
11. Examine population dynamics, including patterns of growth and their ecological and societal impacts.
12. Assess how human activities influence ecosystem resilience and long‑term environmental sustainability.