BIO2040 · Conservation biology

Overview

This unit deals with threats to the environment associated with human activities and potential solutions to redress their impacts. Recent losses of biota have been caused by habitat loss and degradation, climate change and pollution, the introduction of exotic species and overexploitation of natural resources. Science-based conservation measures are explored that may reduce loss of biodiversity/ecosystem function, including habitat preservation and restoration, combating climate change, and intensive conservation of species. We analyse how conservation efforts may involve trade-offs with biological, economic, social and political factors.

Areas of study: Ecology and conservation biology Environmental science

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Identify and describe the key environmental issues facing humankind and outline the role that humans play in environmental degradation and species extinction;
2. Evaluate and compare the conservation techniques that can be used to restore habitats and ecosystem function;
3. Appraise the special problems involved in attempting to conserve endangered species;
4. Integrate complex political, economic and social issues to formulate effective conservation outcomes;
5. Present and communicate conservation issues to the general public and other stakeholders in written and oral formats.

Workload

The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (roughly 12 hours per week) comprising: • One 2.5 hour teaching session per week involving tutorials, practical activities and class discussions and • 9.5 hours of online activities and self directed study in preparation and reflection of the weekly teaching sessions, and completion of the assessment tasks and assignments.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.