This module provides students with a holistic understanding of the crisis posed to the environment and society by the impacts of climate change at both a global and local levels. Environmental professionals require a foundation understanding of the science relating to climate change highlighting the evidence base, key causes and impacts. This is necessary to help contextualise the problem within a challenging policy and governance arena within which the key strategies for climate change mitigation and adaptation are framed. The syllabus will be tailored for the UK context in order to provide focus and enhance the relevance and applicability for students, but it retains international consideration and relevance. The module focuses on four strands:
1)to establish the evidence base and identification of key impacts focusing on physical sciences, climate modelling, the prediction of impacts, as well as the ability to handle uncertainty
2)to explore the evolution of global and local governance structures shaping climate change policy and reflecting on the challenges faced in achieving consensus
3)to review the options for climate change mitigation available through policy and technology
4)to review the strategies for adaptation in the urban and rural environments thus improving its resilience. These strands will be explored through a cross comparison of different sectors as well as regional/ country variations where relevant