This module aims to give students a deep understanding of environmental hazards from both a physical and policy point of view. It builds on the material presented in ENV0006c, but this is not a requirement. The lectures will cover the physical, chemical and biological hazards associated with natural disasters.
This modules aims to give the student detailed information on the physical, chemical and biological nature of natural hazards using a number of case studies and background theory. In addition, the module aims to introduce the tools used in industry and government for policy creation (e.g. numerical modelling).
The practical and field trip will put the theoretical knowledge learned during the lectures into practise and show the difficult decisions required when implementing a hazard mitigation policy.
Module learning outcomes
At the end of this module the student would have gained knowledge as follows:
Subject content
Geographical hazard processes and mitigation
Processes that occur in a policy framework
Impact of climate change and future hazard risk
Critically evaluation of hazard policy
Academic and graduate skills
GIS data available for use in hazards research
Quantitative techniques used to study hazards
An ability to summarise and criticise current research in hazard assessment
Experience of writing scientific technical report
Assessment
Task
Length
% of module mark
Essay/coursework 3000 word scientific report
N/A
50
Online Exam 24 Hours Environmental Hazards
N/A
50
Special assessment rules
None
Reassessment
Task
Length
% of module mark
Online Exam 24 Hours Environmental Hazards
N/A
100
Module feedback
Standard feedback form in Environment within 4 weeks of hand-in date.
Indicative reading
Smith, K., 2013. Environmental Hazards: Assessing Risk and Reducing Disaster, Routledge.
Bryant, E., 2005. Natural Hazards, Cambridge University Press