Module: EM7505-15 - Ecosystem Management

Level: 7

Credit Value: 15

Module Tutor: Ian Thornhill

Module Tutor Contact Details: i.thornhill@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module

Modern economic theory (ecological economics) considers ecosystem sustainability as the foundation of economic sustainability. This module develops a comprehensive the natural environment in terms of ecosystem functions and resource management, and on how they benefit and challenge human beings and the wider environment.

In this module you will learn how ecosystems function in terms of natural processes and in particular how they can be valued in terms of ecosystem services, both in terms of their economic value and their value to the wider environment. Managing natural (especially biological) resources will be addressed in terms of the maintenance of natural systems to benefit the wider environment and human beings.

An ecosystem approach allows a wide range of themes to be explored in this module, including: biodiversity and conservation, climate change, environmental hazards, biosecurity, conservation medicine, ecosystem functioning, the value of nature, planning and legislation.

Assessment is primarily directed at measuring and managing the natural environment with a view to developing an understanding of how benefiting the wider environment is also of value to human beings.

2. Outline Syllabus & Teaching & Learning Methods

Key ecosystem concepts will be introduced through selected readings and workshop exercises. This is a fast developing field and typically sessions will include: ecosystem services; valuing nature; the place of nature; techniques for surveying, monitoring and evaluating ecosystems, especially biological resources; biodiversity conservation methods and priorities, and, natural resource planning and legislation. These themes will be supported by material made available via Minerva.

The module will be delivered via a blended delivery comprising practical based workshops used to introduce biological and relevant physical aspects of the natural environment, and its relationship to economic and social sustainability.

Techniques for surveying, monitoring and evaluating environmental quality and the use of standard reporting formats will be reviewed.

Summative assessment comprises a single item. For this, you will develop a monitoring strategy to facilitate the adaptive management of the natural environment (which is of biological relevance). This could range from developing a monitoring strategy for a natural resource or nature reserve, assessing the implementation of mitigation measures required by an impact assessment, a more strategic or landscape-scale monitoring plan for an ecosystem resource. Your choice will be developed in consultation with the tutor. Standard reporting formats will be used wherever appropriate.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Coursework
• Description: Development of a monitoring strategy for a natural resource, to enable an adaptive management approach (3500 -5000 words)
• % Weighting: 100%