BIOL 1110 - Environmental Science
3 Credits
This course emphasizes the unique impact humans and industry have on our enviornment. It addresses the demands placed on the biosphere by the exploitation of natural resources and energy, the creation of pollution and the disposal of waste. This course is interdisciplinary, combining concepts from the natural and physical sciences (e.g. biology, chemistry, ecology, geology, physics) with the social sciences (e.g. economics, politics, ethics, history) to present an understanding of how wise steardship of earth’s resources can result in the long-term sustainability of our shared environment.
Major Content Areas
Biosphere:a. Species, population and community ecology b. Human population growthc. Biogeochemical cyclesd. Laws of matter and energy Scientific method and terminology Stewardshipa. Invasive species and loss of biodiversityb. Demand on resources in developed and developing nationsc. Land use Natural resources and energya. Physical, chemical, and biological approaches to matter and energyb. Energy policyc. National and international legislation for protecting resourcesd. Ethical perspectives on natural resource use Pollution and wastea. Air pollutionb. Water pollutionc. Impacts to human health from air, water, and food Sustainabilitya. Sustainable management of natural resourcesb. Ecological footprintc. Economic perspectives on the environment
Learning Outcomes
Characterize parameters that relate to population ecology, the demands that population growthhave on natural resources and the consequences that result from unregulated growth and consumption. Recognize the role and responsibility that we have as individuals to protect and restore naturalresources for future generations and how, through education and active participation eachof us can be a catalyst for change. Describe the relationship between humans with industry in their environment. Identify renewable and nonrenewable natural resources that are critical for today’s society, howour planet’s natural resources are being utilized and how future management of naturalresources can lead to long-term sustainability Explain major components of Earth’s environmental systems and how these systems can supportarid perpetuate a diversity of life through wise stewardship
Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MNTC) Goals
03 - Natural Science 10 - People/Environment
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