COURSE SYNOPSES

11.1 SEMESTER ONE

11.1.1 INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY CUES101

The course introduces students to environmental science as a multidisciplinary subject and

the important concept of sustainable development. The course will explore the key concepts

or “resource”, “environment” and “sustainability” at the community, national and

international levels; using the ecological, social, economic and political perspectives. The

human, national and global environmental issues are explored in the context of human

relationships with the environment, maintaining environmental quality and improving

social well-being and livelihoods. The focus moves from the perspectives of indigenous

people regarding their environment and their use of resources to the major environmental

issues including human populations and human development, resources and sustainability,

pollution, biodiversity and global change. The major significance of maintaining an

ecologically and economically sustainable environment and socially just society will provide

the main thrust to the course.

11.1.2 GENERAL CHEMISTRY CUES 102

The course covers; structure of matter, chemical reactions, Nomenclature of compounds,

Periodic system, ionization energies, atomic sizes, reactivity and electron affinity. Inorganic

chemistry. Main groups of elements, Transition elements, quantum mechanics and chemical

bonding, molecular structure, Coordination compounds, complexes isomerism, state of

matter, solids, liquids, solutions, expressing compositions, coligative properties, colloids,

Redox reactions, acid base equilibra, buffer solutions, kinetic theory of gases, chemical

thermodynamics, equilibrium, electrochemistry, reaction kinetics, surface chemistry,

Organic chemistry- alkanes, alkenes, aromatic compounds, alcohols, acids, esters,

aldehydes, ketones,reactions of organic compounds,

Laboratory: Phsyical, inorganic and organic chemistry laboratory

11.1.3 EARTH SCIENCES CUES 111

Introduction to physical and environmental geology. Large-scale tectonic forces that create the earth’s continents and oceans, and surficial forces that shape the earth’s

landscapes, folds, faults joints, cleavages, foliation lineation and unconformities. The earth’s dynamic environment, global energy balance, radiative transfer and climate are also considered. Emphasis on processes that endanger human populations (such as earthquakes, volcanoes and floods). Weathering, erosion, fossils and their significance thermatic maps, topographical models. Identification of rocks and minerals. GPS and compass use.

11.1.4 INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS CUMT105

Introduction to statistics: definition, uses of statistics (research, business, tourism,

agriculture). Probability: multiplicative law, addition law, conditional probability, tree

diagram, law of total probability. Probability distributions: random variables; discrete,

continuous. Binomial distribution, normal distribution Measures of central tendency and

dispersion: mean, median, mode; range, variance, standard deviation, standard error of the

mean. Sampling techniques: simple random, stratified, cluster, systematic. Data types,

presentation, and summarization techniques: tables, graphs, charts. Regression and

correlation: regression parameters, correlation coefficient, coefficient of determination.

Simple statistical inference: hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, t-tests and chi-square

tests.

11.1.5 COMMUNICATION SKILLS CUACE101

This course is important for natural sciences and will develop professionals who can effectively apply communication theories, methodologies, techniques and skills to satisfy the specific needs of development projects and programmes. The course introduces the student to the fundamentals of communication and to the different forms of media, its evolution, approaches, barriers and use in developmental work.

11.1.6 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND COMPUTER APPLICATIONS CUIT 112

Students are equipped with basic computer concepts and application skills. These include; knowledge of the different types of computers, printers and software with emphasis on the CPU, input and output devices plus storage media. The role of information systems and information technology in organizations. The use of a Windows based operating system, a word processor, a spreadsheet and presentation packages. Students will also be equipped with the proper use of Internet.

11.2 SEMESTER TWO

11.2.1 SOIL SCIENCE CUAE 112

In this course, students are equipped with the following concepts: introduction to soil science, concepts of soil science, soil horizons and profiles, soil forming factors, processes of soil formation, soil components, soil chemical properties, soil physical properties, soil-water-plant relations, soil biological properties, soil organic matter, soil fertility and plant mineral nutrition, erosion, soil and water conservation.

11.2.2 HYDROGEOLOGY CUES 109

This course provides students with an introduction to the hydrological cycle. Surface and subsurface hydrology are considered. The principles of precipitation, evaporation, evapotranspiration; surface and groundwater flow; storage in natural and artificial reservoirs; water quality and pollution.

Catchments and components of a catchment, the water balance, hydrological storages and fluxes, methods of estimating average areal precipitation will be covered. Stream flow and base flow including hydrometry and base flow separation techniques plus hydrological forecasting and frequency analysis will be considered.

11.2.3 ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY CUES 116

The course offers a basic introduction to microorganisms, microbial metabolism and

diversity of microbial communities in soil, water and air as well as factors that influence

microbial development in these environments. The broad topics to be covered will include

soil microbiology, water/aquatic microbiology, air microbiology. Students will learn how

microbes influence geochemical processes at the earth’s surface, the cycling of nutrients in

soil, water and air; and the use of microorganisms to accelerate natural biodegradation or

transformation of chemicals and elements in the environment through bioremediation.

11.2.4 ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY CUES 117

Introduces learners to the study of the sources, reactions, transport, fate and effects of chemical species in the physical environment. Nitrogen, oxygen, carbon, sulphur and phosphorus cycles. Atmospheric chemistry, troposphere gas composition, radiation, photochemical reactions, acid-base reactions, ozone, green house gases. Aquatic chemistry, properties of water, gases in water, solubility, alkalinity, water hardness, acidity and redox processes, coordination chemistry in

water, colloidal material in water. Soil chemistry, chemical composition, pH and ion availability, soil acidity, organic matter, cation exchange, macronutrients and micro nutrients. The principles of environmental sampling (air, soil and water) and analysis including (gravimetric and spectroscopy) the importance and practice of quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) are also discussed.

11.2.5 POLLUTION SCIENCE CUES 118

Areas covered include air pollution, noise pollution, radiation pollution, soil pollution, erosion, land degradation, pesticides, solid waste in soil, salinity, effects of acid rain, water pollution, and pollution due to solid and hazardous wastes. Classification, causes,

sources, effects and control measures of these types of pollution on human beings and the environment are explored. Coagulation, filtration, disinfection, adsorption.

Air and water quality standards.

Point and non-point sources of pollution will also be covered. The main strategies considered are eco-technological as well as legislative Green house gases and global warming will also be discussed. Fate and transport of the pollutants in the environment

11.2.6 ECOLOGY AND BIODIVERSITY CUES105

Topics covered in the course include: Population ecology consisting of topics such as

population growth and regulation, estimating population numbers, distributions, dispersal

and migration, survivorship curves, density dependent and density independent

population regulation, life history strategies, human population growth, and species

interactions: predation, mutualism, parasitism, competition; Community ecology and

biodiversity (biodiversity, community succession, trophic structure, biogeochemical or

nutrient cycling, and human interference); Ecosystem ecology comprising biogeography

and biomes; Human impact on ecosystem and conservation. Human impact on ecosystems

will cover the following global issues; human population, deforestation, habitat loss,

habitat fragmentation, greenhouse gases and global warming, ozone hole, oceanic and

freshwater pollution, overharvest in aquatic and terrestrial habitats, exotic/invasive

species, and extinctions.

11.3 SEMESTER THREE

11.3.1 GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (GIS) CUES 213

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a computer-based tool that uses spatial

(geographic) data to analyze and solve real-world problems. This course is designed to

introduce the student to the basic principles and techniques of GIS and includes the

following topics: introduction to GIS, basic concepts in GIS, coordinate systems and geo-

referencing, geo-data sources, data input and data quality, the global navigation systems

(GPS), spatial data models, spatial data analysis, data visualisation and map production,

databases, GIS applications. At the end of the course students should be familiar with the

fundamental concepts of GIS and gain experience in the application of GIS in decision

making regarding environmental issues.

11.3.2 NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT CUES 202

The course provides the basic concepts and schools of thought related to the management and conservation of natural resources. It outlines a conventional way of classifying natural resources according to a variety of criteria. In the context of resource classification, the rationale for sustainability in resource utilization is inculcated in students. Techniques, strategies, and approaches used in natural resource management are provided as an important ingredient in sustainable development initiatives.

11.3.3 ENVIRONMENTAL BIOTECHNOLOGY CUES 214

Students are introduced to a brief history and basic concepts in biotechnology, such as,

DNA and RNA structure and function, Recombinant DNA technology, PCR, DNA

Hybridisation. The course examines the applications of biotechnology to environmental

quality evaluation, protection, monitoring, and remediation of contaminated

environments by combining biological processes and technology.

Technology in this case refers to both the molecular to macrobiotic, therefore relevant

topics of microbiology and plant biology are presented. These provide a foundation for

subsequent discussions of microbial removal and degradation of organics,

phytoremediation of soil and water contaminated with toxic metals, wetlands as treatment

processes, and composting. The following will also be covered; biofuels, green buildings,

biofertilisers and biopesticides, biosensorsand solid organic waste treatment.

11.3.4 ENVIRONMENTAL LAW CUES 215

This course is designed to acquaint students with the legal issues involved in the

protection of the environment. This is to be achieved through exposure to the sources of

Zimbabwe’s environmental regulation: international and national. The course examines

the various sources of environmental law demonstrating how international initiatives are

translated into domestic regulation. Through this mechanism students are exposed to

some of the difficulties in this area of the law such as definitional difficulties as well as the

incorporation of concepts such as ecologically sustainable development, intergenerational

equity and the precautionary principle into regulation. The environmental technologist

must be equipped with the basic knowledge of both international and national

environmental laws in order to achieve the goals of sustainable development. It is the

intention of this course to address this need.

11.3.5 WASTE MANAGEMENT CUES 207

The course is for students who have an interest in and responsibility for an integrated solid waste management system to minimize or if possible to eliminate public and environmental health problems so as to prevent diseases and promote health and well being of the community. The course consists of the following topics; Evolution of waste management, Sources, types and composition of waste, waste generation rates, variability and factors affecting generation, Functional elements of Waste Management program,

Waste Handling, Storage and Processing at the Source, Collection methods, Separation, processing and transformation of waste, Transport and Transfer of wastes, waste disposal methods, Integrated sustainable solid waste management, Hierarchy of waste management, Policy and legislation for Waste Management in Zimbabwe.

11.4 SEMESTER FOUR

11.4.1 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT CUES 208

Overall, individuals should be able to understand the EIA process, how it is applied and

appreciate the purpose and role of EIA in the decision-making process. The following are

topics to be taught in the course; Nature and scope of environmental issues, Historical

review and global situation on EIA, Rationale for EIA and its scope, Purpose and aims of

EIA in development, its Costs and benefits, Statutory basis for EIA (EIA legislation, national

guidelines, international conventions), The Project cycle and EIA Process, Screening,

Scoping, Baseline survey, Impact identification, analysis and assessment, Consideration of

alternatives, Mitigation and residual impact, Impact management, Reporting and

reviewing, Monitoring and auditing and Techniques used in an EIA.

11.4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH METHODS CUES218

The course aims to teach the practical aspects of environmental research. It will focus on

quantitative and qualitative aspects of experimental research planning, design, and

implementation. Topics include problem analysis, proposal development, research

planning/ budget, data collection methods/ tools, qualitative and quantitative data

analysis and project write up. Data manipulation, quantitative analysis (descriptive

statistics, hypothesis testing, linear models, time series, and spatial data analysis),

environmental monitoring, and impact/risk assessment. Graphical methods for exploring

and plotting data and presenting model results will be emphasized. Students will complete

a final research project to apply statistical methods learned in the course. After selecting a

question of interest, students will generate hypotheses and utilize a publically available

data set to test their hypotheses. Results and conclusions will be presented in class as

conference-style talks. The final paper will follow the format of a scientific journal article.

11.4.3 WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT CUES 216

The course aims to introduce students to the multidisciplinary field of water resources

management. Its main is to Introduce IWRM as the best approach in water management.

Water is life Concept, Water and the Ecosystem, Water Resources and Sustainable

Development, Water Resources Management, Water Problems of the 21st Century, Water

Scarcity, Water Pollution, Sanitation, Floods and droughts, Climate change, The water

cycle, Three characteristics of water, Integrated water resources management, Policy

principles, Sustainability of water resources, Institutional aspects, Strategic issues, Water

resources , The water balance , Groundwater resources, Surface water, Catchment yield,

The rainbow of water, The water balance as a result of human interference, Water

allocation principles, Balancing demand and supply, Issues in water allocation, Urban

water demand, Estimation of urban water demand, Pricing of urban water, Agricultural

water demand, Yield response to water, Crop water requirements, Yield reduction due to

water shortage, Environmental water requirements, Quantifying environmental water

requirements

11.4.5 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (EMS) AND AUDITING CUES 405

The course is designed to provide a critical overview of the theory and practice of EMS and

Auditing to those who need to understand EMS as operated locally and internationally. It

seeks to impart the capability and skills of individuals to independently initiate EMS

development and implementation for an organization, to understand the EMS process and

concepts according to international ISO standards. At the end of the course students

should have gained an appreciation of the purpose and role of EMS for an organization.

The courses covered in the course include; Introduction to Global environmental issues,

the history and theoretical framework for environmental management, the business case,

driving forces, barriers and strategies, an introduction to ISO 14000 Series; the ISO 14001

Model of Continual Improvement (the Environmental Policy, Planning the EMS,

Implementation and operation, Checking and corrective action and Management review),

the EMS certification process, Stakeholder Analysis and Environmental Auditing.

11.4.6 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY CUES 212

The student is introduced to local and international legislation governing Occupational

Health and Safety. The course covers the recognition and control of safety hazards in the

workplace. Topics include job hazard analysis, accident investigation and reporting,

machine guarding, personal protection, fire protection, Hazardous substance Management,

Lock Out and Tag Out, Confined Space Entry, Fall Protection, Emergency Action Plans,

Ergonomics , Electrical safety , Machine safety, Fire safety, Safety Management Systems

Auditing.

11.5 SEMESTER FIVE AND SIX

11.5.1 INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT CUES 381

The student should cover: Waste Management, or Natural Resources Management, environmental management, water resources management and occupational health and safety. Use either geographic information system or Biological and Chemical analytical tools to solve an environmentally related problem, pollution control and policies within an organization.

11.5.2 INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT REPORT CUES 382

Report on the history of the organization, organizational Structure, profile and brief

description of the departments activities,(actual work carried out including a project

done), experience and knowledge gained (theory and practice), problems encountered and

how they were solved.

11.6 SEMESTER SEVEN

11.6.1 ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS CUES 444

The course provides an overview of the nature of relationships between human economic

activity and the environment. It familiarizes students with knowledge of economic

concepts, analytical tools and case studies essential for effective environmental scientists

and managers. Standard economic approaches to natural resources and policy are

reviewed. The course explores the: methodological approaches to valuation of

environmental values; nature and scope of environmental economics; issue of resource

scarcity; main factors behind misestimating of environmental values and; the concept

sustainable development. The course is not meant to make students experts in

environmental economics, but should give a distinctive economic perspective on how to

analyze environmental issues and to appreciate some of the economic arguments that can

be used in these.

11.6.2 PROJECT PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT CUES 437

Formalized procedures, tools and techniques used in conceptual and detailed planning of the project; application of the project data in monitoring the progress of the project and in formulating remedial actions in response to unexpected outcomes; ranking of the entire project after deliverables have been accepted by the client. Cost benefit analysis

11.6.3 ENVIRONMENTAL MODELING CUES 406

The environment consists of complex dynamic systems, which change over time and

space. Environmental models are used to study, simulate and predict processes that drive

these changes. This course introduces the students to the basic principles, applications and

limitations of environmental modeling in solving environmental problems. The course

covers the following: the environment as a dynamic system, a systems approach to

environmental problems, definition of fundamental concepts, nature and purpose of

environmental modeling; classification of models, steps involved in building a model,

calibration, validation and sensitivity analysis. The course also covers the applications of

existing models in different fields of environmental science. At the end of the course

students should have knowledge of the fundamental concepts, applications and limitations

of environmental modeling in environmental management decision making.

11.6.4 REMOTE SENSING CUES 438

This course provides the basic principles of remote sensing and image processing. It

highlights remote sensing as an important tool for solving environmental problems. The

course aims at introducing the basic principles and applications of remote sensing. The

following concepts are covered during the course: introduction to remote sensing,

electromagnetic radiation and the electromagnetic spectrum, energy interactions with the

atmosphere, interaction of electromagnetic radiation with the earth’s surface, sensor

technology, major remote sensing systems, image acquisition and processing, image

classification and applications of remote sensing. Upon completion of the course, students

should have acquired knowledge of the fundamental concepts and applications of remote

sensing in environmental management.

11.6.5 PRINCIPLES OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP CUEB 201

The aim of this course is to develop entrepreneurial acumen in students to appreciate the importance of entrepreneurship to the individual and in nation building, analyse and explain how PESTLEG factors affect the entrepreneur, design a bankable business plan and evaluate various options available to the entrepreneur to go global. The emphasis of this course is to define entrepreneurship, entrepreneurship and innovation; understand the nature and importance of entrepreneurship for economic development; identify business opportunities and generate business ideas; develop a bankable business plan; understand the characteristics of a successful entrepreneur; identify the challenges being faced by Zimbabwean entrepreneurs; analyse the nature of business environment and apply different tools and models to minimize the effects of the PESTLEG forces; identify different ways of starting a business; appreciate different supporters of entrepreneurship in Zimbabwe; understand marketing and management in Small to Medium Enterprises; and identify available options to go global.

11.7 SEMESTER EIGHT

11.7.1 RESEARCH PROJECT CUES 428

The student will carry out an independent investigation into a problem of his/her choice.

This is done under the supervision and guidance of a member of staff. The student is

expected to collect data, interpret and write up a report to illustrate the understanding of

environmental issues relating to the problem. The report must demonstrate the

relationship between theoretical knowledge and its application to field situations.

11.8 OPTION A: NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT

11.8.1 FOREST AND RANGE SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT CUWSM 413

The scope and objectives of Forest Management. Concept of joint Forest Management,

merits and demerits. The Regulation of Yield: Objects of cutting. Introduction to concept of

normal forest and sustained yield. Methods of yield egulation. Area Method, Cotta’s

formula and Von Mantel’s formula. Organization of the Forest: Compartment and sub-

compartment, working circle, felling series, cutting section, periodic block. Filling cycle.

Preparation of Working Scheme: Need for long term planning in forestry. Preparation of

working schemes. Execution, advantages and classification of silvicultural systems. Clear

Felling System. Shelterwood Systems Producing uniform crop: Shelterwood compartment

systems. Producing irregular crop: Selection system, single and group selection systems.

Coppice Systems: Simple coppice and selection coppice systems. Pollarding. Accessory

Systems: Two storied high forest systems. Improvement felling systems. Silvicultural

systems. Choice of systems: Factors for the selection of silvicultural systems,Definition and

importance of Rangeland and Range resources of Zimbabwe, Principles of Range

Management: Correct kind of livestock., Correct number of animals. Proper distribution of

animals. Proper season of range use. Grazing effects on plant morphology and physiology.

Range vegetation analysis. Basic Concepts: Animal unit (AU), Animal Unit Month (AUM),

Frequency Density, Cover, Frequency of use, Intensity of use. Measurement of Vegetation:

Estimation of grazing/carrying capacity. Range condition, range trend and range

utilization. 5. Grazing Systems: Seasonal/yearlong grazing. Rotational grazing. Deferred

grazing. Deferred-rotational grazing. Rest-rotation grazing. Nomadic and semi-nomadic

grazing. Holistic resource management, indigenous institutions. Range Improvement

Techniques: Importance of range improvement. Artificial reseeding. Site selection. Seeding

methods. Calculation of seed rate for artificial reseeding. Water Development. Water

spreading. Sand dune fixation. Salting. Fencing. Herding. Range fertilization. Control of

undesirable and poisonous plants.

11.8.2 COMMUNITY BASED NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT CUWSM 402

CBNRM aims to address questions related to the management and sustainable use of land,

water, forests, flora and fauna as well as to questions related to poverty and inequity. A

central feature of CBNRM is that it explores creating synergies between local or traditional

knowledge and skills, and knowledge and skills from both the natural and social sciences.

11.8.3 WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES MANAGEMENT CUWSM 414

Important types of fishes found in Zimbabwe and their economic importance. Culture of important fishes, fish ponds, fish farming and nurseries, fish diseases and their treatment. Importance of Wildlife. Wildlife habitat. Protected wildlife areas. Birds migration. Ecological and Socio-political process in terrestrial, aquatic and human ecosystems.

Application of ecological principles and concepts to conservation and management of fish and wildlife population and their habitats. Animal behavior. Principles of Wildlife Management. The Wildlife of Zimbabwe. Distribution and status of important wildlife species. Migratory and Resident Wildlife species. Wildlife Laws and Regulations. Introduction: Definition, Importance of recreation, Factors influencing recreation. National Parks: Forests as outdoor recreational areas. Significance of Parks. Study of important National Parks of Zimbabwe. Development of Facilities: Camp Ground, Picnic areas, Organized camps and Interpretative facilities. Duties of Park Manager. Landscaping, Plant material for landscaping. Introduction to floriculture and fruiticulture. Propagation of plants. Nursery practices and management. Protected areas systems.

11.8.4 SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION CUES 441

Covers the principles of soil and water conservation. It provides the student with a basic understanding of conservation practices and their impact on the environment. Focus will be on practical applications through land use, runoff and erosion control, and soil and water management. Emphasis will also be placed on assessing the impact of conservation practices on the environment.

11.8.5 LAND USE PLANNING CUES 415

The history and legal basis of planning, socio-economic, political and environmental considerations in land use planning, planning theories, state regional and local planning. The course places a strong emphasis on planning for environmental sustainability and the applicable tools such as EIA and SEA.

11.9 OPTION B: WASTE MANAGEMENT

11.9.1 WASTEWATER TREATMENT CUES 418

This course introduces students to the area of wastewater treatment with a focus on

pollution prevention. Main areas covered include water quality, nature of wastewater,

pretreatment of industrial wastewater, and, wastewater treatment processes. Emphasis is

on biological systems, especially the activated sludge process, as well as package plants

(small scale treatment plants).

11.9.2 INDUSTRIAL WASTE MANAGEMENT CUES 440

This course provides an overview of waste management practices of waste management

practices including the environmental, social, and economic implications of the generation,

handling, treatment, and disposal of a variety of waste streams, with emphasis on

technology, policy, strategy, and community issues.

11.9.3 CLEANER PRODUCTION CUES 439

This course examines how cleaner production practices can improve the environmental

performance of businesses while at the same time improving the competitiveness and

profitability. It includes the principles and application of cleaner production practices;

some concepts related to cleaner production assessment which include pollution

prevention, industrial ecology, eco-efficiency and waste minimization; implementation

and continuation; tools for identifying cleaner production opportunities; policies and

strategies for promoting cleaner production; barriers to cleaner production adoption;

cleaner production case studies and information sources.

11.10 OPTION C: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT OPTION

11.10.1 ENVIRONMENTAL CONFLICT RESOLUTION CUES 417

Environmental degradation is increasingly perceived as a security challenge at the

national and international level. The exacerbation of social and environmental

vulnerability may fuel violent conflict when the effects of climate change and extreme

weather events destabilize livelihoods and enhance competition over natural resources.

The module explores strategies that could be used to resolve environmental conflicts

which include the concept of sustainable natural resource management, addressing

sociopolitical marginalization processes as well as providing legitimate institutions for

conflict resolution. Collaborative natural resource management such as trans-boundary

water management or sustainable forest management can stabilize relationships and

secure livelihoods. Thus, the course focuses on the nature of conflicts emerging from the

exploitation of natural resources both nationally and internationally and the different

strategies of resolving them.

11.10.2 LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT CUES 443

Life cycle assessment is one of five emerging international standards within ISO 14000

series that is becoming increasingly significant internationally. This course seeks to

introduce students to the theory and practice of LCA. This course is aimed at introducing

basic concepts, particularly, the framework as defined in ISO 14000 series of standards

that consists of four phases: 1) Goal and Scope Definition; 2) Inventory Analysis; 3) Impact

Assessment; 4) Interpretation.

The course introduces quantitative techniques for systematically and holistically

evaluating the environmental tradeoffs presented by different alternatives for better

decision-making.

Focus will also be on the methodology of LCA (how to compute the various material inputs

and environmental releases from all activities associated with the lifecycle of products, or

services, that is, raw material extraction, processing, end use and disposal); the strengths

and limitations of LCA as a tool for decision-making compared to comparison with other

alternative approaches for example, cost-benefit analysis and cost-effectiveness analysis,

and also different approaches to LCA and their advantages and disadvantages will be

taught.

11.10.3 ECOLOGICAL RISK ASSESSMENT CUES 427

The four elements of risk assessment , problem formulation, exposure assessment, effects

assessment and risk characterization a will be discussed. Risk management and

communication will also be dealt with. Statistical concepts important for exposure

assessment, dose, response analysis and uncertainty analysis will be covered. The

association of ecological assessment to the planning process and legislation will also be

examined. Risk managers and Risk assessors, Measurement endpoints, Assessment

endpoints, Conceptual model, Public participation, Exposure Assessment, Characterization

of exposure setting, Exposure pathways, Quantification of exposure, Maximum Daily Dose,

Lifetime Average Daily Dose, Effects Assessment, Effects on ecosystems, Physiological

effects, Behavioral effects, Morphological effects, Non-carcinogenic versus carcinogenic

effects, Dose Response Analysis, Reference Dose (RfD), Safety/Uncertainty Factors, Effects

assessment aquatic compartment, Effects assessment sediment compartment , Effects

assessment terrestrial compartment, Risk Characterization, Hazard/Risk Quotients, Uses

of probabilistic risk assessments, Methods for conducting probabilistic risk assessment,

The exposure profile , Calculating ranks for the distribution, Modeling exposures for

probabilistic risk assessment, Uncertainty Analysis, Ecological Significance, Risk

Management & Communication, Factors affecting RM, Multivariate Analysis and Risk

Communication.