ERS315H5 • Environmental Geology

Despite civilization’s dependence on nature for energy, food, and water, human activity has severely affected the environment in recent centuries. Particularly, the use of energy is significantly impacting our planet via resource extraction, climate change and pollution of the atmo-, bio-, hydro-, and geosphere. While some environmental impacts will be diminished as part of the ongoing carbon-free energy transition, the use of alternative energies can also lead to negative environmental consequences. This course studies the relationship between fossil fuels, nuclear and renewable energy and environment on a broad scale discussing topics such as mining, water pollution, nuclear waste management, climate change, and geoengineering.

1.0 credits of ENV or ERS or GGR at the 200-level or higher
Science
36L
In Class
Earth Science