Module GEOL40715: Sustainable Resource Management

Department: Earth Sciences

GEOL40715: Sustainable Resource Management

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• This module aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of sustainable resource management principles and practices. It will explore the concepts of resource efficiency, renewable and non-renewable resources, ecosystem-based management, life cycle analysis, and the circular economy. The module will delve into the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable resource use and provide students with the tools to contribute to a more sustainable future.

Content

• 1. Resource Efficiency:
• Definition and importance of resource efficiency
• Resource efficiency metrics and indicators
• Strategies for improving resource efficiency in various sectors (e.g., industry, agriculture, transportation)
• Case studies of successful resource efficiency initiatives
• 2. Renewable vs. Non-Renewable Resources:
• Characteristics and examples of renewable and non-renewable resources
• Global resource depletion and scarcity issues
• Transition to a renewable energy economy
• Policy frameworks and incentives for promoting renewable energy
• 3. Ecosystem-Based Management:
• Principles of ecosystem-based management
• Ecosystem services and their valuation
• Integrated management of natural resources
• Case studies of ecosystem-based management approaches
• 4. Life Cycle Analysis:
• Methodology and steps involved in life cycle analysis
• Environmental impacts assessment (e.g., greenhouse gas emissions, water use, waste generation)
• Life cycle assessment tools and software
• Applications of life cycle analysis in product design and decision-making
• 5. Circular Economy:
• Concepts and principles of the circular economy
• Strategies for promoting a circular economy (e.g., waste reduction, recycling, reuse)
• Circular economy business models and case studies
• Policy and regulatory frameworks for supporting a circular economy.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate a deep understanding of sustainable resource management principles and practices.
• Critically evaluate the trade-offs between economic growth and environmental sustainability.
• Apply concepts of resource efficiency, renewable energy, ecosystem-based management, life cycle analysis, and the circular economy to real-world scenarios.
• Analyse the environmental impacts of resource consumption and production.

• Conduct life cycle assessments to evaluate the environmental performance of products and processes.
• Develop and implement strategies for improving resource efficiency and reducing waste.
• Assess the potential of renewable energy sources and their integration into energy systems.
• Evaluate and apply ecosystem-based management approaches to natural resource conservation.
• Analyse policy and regulatory frameworks related to sustainable resource management.

• Critical thinking and problem-solving.
• Effective communication and presentation.
• Data analysis and interpretation.
• Teamwork and collaboration.
• Ethical decision-making.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• This module will be delivered through a series of flexible 2 hour workshops comprising both lectures and practicals, supported by surgeries.
• The practicals form an important component of the module allowing "hands on" learning and experience.
• Summative assessment is made up of a class test and a mini-project where the students can demonstrate their knowledge of the techniques covered in this module.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

The formative assessment consists of classroom-based exercises on specific data topics of relevant to the learning outcomes of the modules. Oral feedback will be given on a group and/or individual basis as appropriate.

■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.