Module Provider: |
Geography |
Number of credits: |
10 [5 ECTS credits] |
Level: |
I (Intermediate) |
Terms in which taught: |
Autumn |
Module Convenor: |
Dr
A
Howard |
Pre-requisites: |
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Co-requisites: |
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Modules excluded: |
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Module version for: |
2006/7 |
Aims:
The module explores key social, environmental and political issues affecting energy resource provision. The module is delivered through a series of lectures and directed reading of the textbook listed below. The lectures provide core subject knowledge that should enable the student to critically appraise the forecasts and arguments made by David Leggett in his book. |
Assessable learning outcomes:
On completion of this module it is expected that a participant will be able to:
Explain key aspects of current UK and EU energy and water resource policy.
Evaluate the relative social and environmental impact of resource utilisation.
Demonstrate an understanding of a range of social and political issues concerned with environmental resource exploitation.
Present original ideas for future policy developments.
Demonstrate and ability to present coherent argument and discussion |
Additional outcomes:
Fieldwork necessitates teamwork and also requires a high level of ingenuity and tenacity. Students will begin to develop these skills through working in teams directly gathering field data together with the critical analysis, interpretation and presentation of the results. |
Outline content:
1. Energy: Introduction to Energy Resources
2. The Kyoto Agreement
3. Coal and its environmental impact. History of coal in the UK. Coal's future.
4. Oil. History of oil and political and military conflict. Forecasts for future supply of oil and gas. Consequences of resources depletion.
5. Nuclear Power. Its role as an 'environmentally friendly' resource. Safety and siting implications, including links with cancer. Its proposed role in future UK energy policy.
6. Renewable Energy. The feasibility of filling the energy gap with solar, wind, and biomass power. EU policy on renewables.
7. Energy Conservation. Technological, educational and legislative ways of reducing energy consumption and protecting the resource base.
8. Future Energy Policy. Forecasting demand and devising a strategic policy for the UK and EU. |
Brief description of teaching
and learning methods:
Lectures and online information & support. |
Contact hours:
| |
Autumn |
Spring |
Summer |
| Lectures |
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20 |
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| Tutorials/seminars |
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|
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| Practicals |
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|
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| Other contact (eg study visits) |
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| |
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| Total hours |
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20 |
|
| |
|
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| Number of essays or assignments |
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|
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| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
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Assessment:
Coursework
None
Relative percentage of coursework: 0%
Examinations
A two hour paper
Requirements for a pass
A mark of 40% overall
Reassessment arrangements
Re-examination in September |
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