ENVS 1000U – Environmental Science

This course will introduce the conceptual, interdisciplinary framework of environmental science by examining its physical, biological, economic and social components. Topics will include environmental problems and scientific principles; ecological principles (ecosystems, nutrient cycles, geographic ecology, climate and biodiversity); resources and sustainability (food, water, energy and minerals); climate change; pollution (indoor and outdoor air, water, effects on health and ecosystems); energy (renewable, non-renewable, management); agriculture and food production (pesticides and pest control, energy and chemical inputs, land, soil water resources, population and economic issues); waste management and remediation and prevention of environmental degradation. Canadian examples will be used wherever possible but the underlying theme will include a more global approach.
Credit hours: 3
Lecture hours: 3
Note(s): This course may be offered in a hybrid format with 1.5 hours of lectures and 1.5 hours of online lectures and self-learning material.