ESA-20406 Environmental Systems Analysis

Vak

Studiepunten 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

Introduction soil quality, water quality, air quality, statistics

Continuation courses:

Integrated Environmental Assessment I: Bachelor Completion Course Integrated Environmental Assessment: Regional management (MSc), Integrated Environmental Assessment: Pollution management (MSc)

Contents:

An introduction in environmental systems analysis is given. Environmental problems are complex and of a multidisciplinary character. In solving these problems often many actors are involved. Analysing such complex problems requires an integrated approach. In this course, methods and instruments are taught that can be used to analyse environmental issues while taking into account these interactions. Environmental systems analysis studies are often performed to assist decision-makers in finding solutions to specific environmental problems. In the course, attention is paid to interactions between researchers (systems analysts) and the users (decision-makers) of the results of environmental systems analysis studies.
The course starts with a general introduction in which a systems analysis procedure is presented that consists of six steps. Next, tools and techniques used in environmental systems analysis will be introduced. Two case studies will give more insight in the use of environmental systems analysis.

Aims:

Students are able to:
- describe the general procedure of environmental systems analysis (in 6 steps) ;
- discuss the basic characteristics and techniques of environmental systems analysis;
- apply and discuss the following tools: causal diagram, stakeholder analysis, scenario analysis, environmental indicators, function analysis, cost-benefit analysis, multi-criteria analysis, life cycle analysis and environmental impact assessment;
- critically evaluate integrated analyses of complex environmental systems, with special attention to the construction and use of integrated environmental models in international policy-making;
- perform an limited environmental systems analysis.

Activities:

Attend lectures and seminars, participate in discussions, fulfil several (group)assignments and present the results.

Examination:

Based on written examination and paper.

Literature:

A course manual and reader are available.