Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2016
Doctoral Department of Environmental Sciences More Information at: Link | ||||||
Environmental Sciences | ||||||
Atmosphere and Climate | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
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402-0572-00L | Aerosols I: Physical and Chemical Principles | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | M. Gysel Beer, U. Baltensperger, H. Burtscher | |
Abstract | Aerosols I deals with basic physical and chemical properties of aerosol particles. The importance of aerosols in the atmosphere and in other fields is discussed. | |||||
Objective | Knowledge of basic physical and chemical properties of aerosol particles and their importance in the atmosphere and in other fields | |||||
Content | physical and chemical properties of aerosols, aerosol dynamics (diffusion, coagulation...), optical properties (light scattering, -absorption, -extinction), aerosol production, physical and chemical characterization. | |||||
Lecture notes | materiel is distributed during the lecture | |||||
Literature | - Kulkarni, P., Baron, P. A., and Willeke, K.: Aerosol Measurement - Principles, Techniques, and Applications. Wiley, Hoboken, New Jersey, 2011. - Hinds, W. C.: Aerosol Technology: Properties, Behavior, and Measurement of Airborne Particles. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, 1999. - Colbeck I. (ed.) Physical and Chemical Properties of Aerosols, Blackie Academic & Professional, London, 1998. - Seinfeld, J. H. and Pandis, S. N.: Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics: From Air Pollution to Climate Change. Hoboken, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2006 | |||||
701-1253-00L | Analysis of Climate and Weather Data | W | 3 credits | 2G | C. Frei | |
Abstract | Observation networks and numerical climate and forcasting models deliver large primary datasets. The use of this data in practice and in research requires specific techniques of statistical data analysis. This lecture introduces a range of frequently used techniques, and enables students to apply them and to properly interpret their results. | |||||
Objective | Observation networks and numerical climate and forcasting models deliver large primary datasets. The use of this data in practice and in research requires specific techniques of statistical data analysis. This lecture introduces a range of frequently used techniques, and enables students to apply them and to properly interpret their results. | |||||
Content | Introduction into the theoretical background and the practical application of methods of data analysis in meteorology and climatology. Topics: exploratory methods, hypothesis tests, analysis of climate trends, measuring the skill of climate and forecasting models, analysis of extreme events, principal component analysis and maximum covariance analysis. The lecture also provides an introduction into R, a programming language and graphics tool frequently used for data analysis in meteorology and climatology. During hands-on computer exercises the student will become familiar with the practical application of the methods. | |||||
Lecture notes | Documentation and supporting material include: - documented view graphs used during the lecture - excercise sets and solutions - R-packages with software and example datasets for exercise sessions All material is made available via the lecture web-page. | |||||
Literature | Suggested literature: - Wilks D.S., 2005: Statistical Methods in the Atmospheric Science. (2nd edition). International Geophysical Series, Academic Press Inc. (London) - Coles S., 2001: An introduction to statistical modeling of extreme values. Springer, London. 208 pp. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: Atmosphäre, Mathematik IV: Statistik, Anwendungsnahes Programmieren. | |||||
701-1235-00L | Cloud Microphysics Number of participants limited to 16. | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | U. Lohmann, Z. A. Kanji | |
Abstract | Clouds are a fascinating atmospheric phenomenon central to the hydrological cycle and the Earth`s climate. Interactions between cloud particles can result in precipitation, glaciation or evaporation of the cloud depending on its microstructure and microphysical processes. | |||||
Objective | The learning objective of this course is that students understand the formation of clouds and precipitation and can apply learned principles to interpret atmospheric observations of clouds and precipitation. | |||||
Content | see: Link | |||||
Lecture notes | This course will be designed as a reading course in 1-2 small groups of 8 students maximum. It will be based on the textbook below. The students are expected to read chapters of this textbook prior to the class so that open issues, fascinating and/or difficult aspects can be discussed in depth. | |||||
Literature | Pao K. Wang: Physics and dynamics of clouds and precipitation, Cambridge University Press, 2012 | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Target group: Master students in Atmosphere and Climate | |||||
701-1221-00L | Dynamics of Large-Scale Atmospheric Flow | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | H. Wernli, S. Pfahl | |
Abstract | Dynamic, synoptic Meteorology | |||||
Objective | Understanding the dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow | |||||
Content | Dynamical Meteorology is concerned with the dynamical processes of the earth's atmosphere. The fundamental equations of motion in the atmosphere will be discussed along with the dynamics and interactions of synoptic system - i.e. the low and high pressure systems that determine our weather. The motion of such systems can be understood in terms of quasi-geostrophic theory. The lecture course provides a derivation of the mathematical basis along with some interpretations and applications of the concept. | |||||
Lecture notes | Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow | |||||
Literature | - Holton J.R., An introduction to Dynamic Meteorogy. Academic Press, fourth edition 2004, - Pichler H., Dynamik der Atmosphäre, Bibliographisches Institut, 456 pp. 1997 | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Physics I, II, Environmental Fluid Dynamics | |||||
701-1251-00L | Land-Climate Dynamics | W | 3 credits | 2G | S. I. Seneviratne, E. L. Davin | |
Abstract | The purpose of this course is to provide fundamental background on the role of land surface processes (vegetation, soil moisture dynamics, land energy and water balances) for the climate system. The course consists of 2 contact hours per week, including 2 computer exercises. | |||||
Objective | The students can understand the role of land processes and associated feedbacks for the climate system. | |||||
Lecture notes | Powerpoint slides will be made available | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: Introductory lectures in atmospheric and climate science Atmospheric physics -> Link and/or Climate systems -> Link | |||||
701-1237-00L | Solar Ultraviolet Radiation | W | 1 credit | 1V | J. Gröbner | |
Abstract | The lecture will introduce the student to the thematics of solar ultraviolet radiation and its effects on the atmosphere and the biosphere. The lecture will cover the modeling and the measurement of solar ultraviolet radiation. The instruments used for solar radiation measurements will also be introduced. | |||||
Objective | The lecture should enable the student to understand the specific problematics related to solar ultraviolet radiation and its interaction with the atmosphere and the biosphere. | |||||
Content | 1) Einführung in die Problematik – Motivation Begriffe (UV-C, UV-B, UV-A,...) Einfluss der UV Strahlung auf Biosphäre (Mensch, Tier, Pflanzen) Positive und schädliche Effekte Wirkungsspektrum, Konzept, Beispiele UVIndex 2) Geschichtlicher Rückblick Rayleigh - Himmelsblau 1907: Dorno, PMOD 1970: Bener, PMOD 1980: Berger, Erythemal sunburn meter 1990- : State of the Art 3) Extraterrestrische UV Strahlung Spektrum Energieverteilung Variabilität (Spektral, zeitlich, relativ zu Totalstrahlung) Satellitenmessungen, Übersicht 4) Einfluss der Atmosphäre auf die solare UV Strahlung Atmosphärenaufbau Beinflussende Parameter (Ozon, Wolken, ...) Ozon, Stratosphärisches versus troposphärisches Geschichte: Ozondepletion, Polare Ozonlöcher und Einfluss auf die UV Strahlung Wolken Aerosole Rayleighstreuung Trends (Ozon, Wolken, Aerosole) Radiation Amplification Factor (RAF) 5-6) Strahlungstransfer Strahlungstransfergleichung Modellierung, DISORT libRadtran, TUV, FASTRT Parameter Sensitivitätsstudien Vergleiche mit Messungen 3-D Modellierung (MYSTIC) Beer-Lambert Gesetz 7) Strahlungsmessungen Instrumente zur Strahlungsmessung Messgrössen: Irradiance (global, direct, diffus), radiance, aktinischer Fluss Horizontale und geneigte Flächen Generelle Problematik: Freiluftmessungen... Qualitätssicherung 8) Solare UV Strahlungsmessungen Problematik: Dynamik, Spektrale Variabilität, Alterung Stabilität Spezifische Instrumente: Filterradiometer, Spektroradiometer, Dosimetrie Übersicht Aufbau und Verwendung 9-10) Solare UV Strahlungsmessgeräte Spektroradiometer, Filterradiometer (Breit und schmalbandig) Charakterisierung Kalibriermethoden (Im Labor, im Feld) Qualitätssicherung, Messkampagnen 11-12) Auswerteverfahren Atmosphärische Parameter aus Strahlungsmessungen Ozon, SO2 Albedo (Effektiv versus Lokal) Aerosol Parameter (AOD, SSA, g, Teilchenverteilungen) Zusammenspiel Messungen - Modellierung Aktinische UV-Strahlungsflüsse und Bestimmung von atmosphärischen Photolysefrequenzen 13) UV Klimatologie Trends UV Klimatologie durch Messnetze UV Klimatologie durch Satellitenmessungen am Beispiel von TOMS Modellierung am Beispiel Meteosat-JRC UV Rekonstruktionen 14) Aktuelle Forschungen Internationale Projekte, Stand der Forschung | |||||
701-1233-00L | Stratospheric Chemistry | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | T. Peter, A. Stenke | |
Abstract | Thermodynamical and kinetic basics: bi- and terrmolecular reactions, photo-dissociation. Chemical family concept. Chapman chemistry. Radical reactions of oxygen species with nitric oxide, active halogens and odd hydrogen. Ozone depletion cycles. Methane depletion and ozone production in the lower stratosphere. Heterogeneous chemistry on background aerosol. Chemistry and dynamics of the ozone hole. | |||||
Objective | The lecture gives an overview on the manifold reactions which occur in the gas phase, in stratospheric aerosol droplets and in polar cloud particles. The focus is on the chemistry of stratospheric ozone and its influence through natural and anthropogenic effects. Especially the intercontinental air traffic and the ozone depletion caused by FCKW CFC in the mid-latitude and the polar regions as well as coupling with the greenhouse effect. | |||||
Content | Short presentation of thermodynamical and kinetic basics of chemical reactions: bi- and terthermo rmolecular reactions, photo-dissociation. Introduction to the chemical family concept: active species, their source gases and reservoir gases. Detailed treatment of the pure oxygen family (odd oxygen) according to the Chapman chemistry. Radical reactions of the oxygen species with nitric oxide, active halogens (chlorine and bromine) and odd hydrogen. Ozone depletion cycles. Methane depletion and ozone production in the lower stratosphere (photo-smog reactions). Heterogeneous chemistry on the background aerosol and its significance for heavy air traffic. Chemistry and dynamics of the ozone hole: Formation of polar stratospheric clouds and chloride activation. | |||||
Lecture notes | Documents are provided in the contact hours. | |||||
Literature | - Basseur, G. und S. Solomon, Aeronomy of the Middle Atmosphere, Kluwer Academic Publishers, 3rd Rev edition (December 30, 2005). - John H. Seinfeld and Spyros N. Pandis, Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics: From Air Pollution to Climate Change, Wiley, New York, 1998. - WMO, Scientific Assessment of Ozone Depletion: 2002, Report No.47, Geneva, 2003. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: Basics in physical chemistry are required and an overview equivalent to the bachelor course in atmospheric chemistry (lecture 701-0471-01) is expected. 701-1233-00 V starts in the first week of the semester. The exercises 701-1233-00 U will start only in the 2nd week of the semester. | |||||
701-1211-01L | Master's Seminar: Atmosphere and Climate 1 | W | 3 credits | 2S | H. Joos, O. Stebler, F. Tummon, M. A. Wüest | |
Abstract | In this seminar, the process of writing a scientific proposal will be introduced. The essential elements of a proposal, including the peer review process, will be outlined and class exercises will train scientific writing skills. Knowledge exchange between class participants is promoted through the preparation of a master thesis proposal and evaluation of each other's work. | |||||
Objective | Training scientific writing skills. | |||||
Content | In this seminar, the process of writing a scientific proposal will be introduced. The essential elements of a proposal, including the peer review process, will be outlined and class exercises will train scientific writing skills. Knowledge exchange between class participants is promoted through the preparation of a master thesis proposal and evaluation of each other's work. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Attendance is mandatory. | |||||
651-4095-01L | Colloquium Atmosphere and Climate 1 | W | 1 credit | 1K | H. Joos, C. Schär, D. N. Bresch, N. Gruber, R. Knutti, U. Lohmann, T. Peter, S. I. Seneviratne, H. Wernli, M. Wild | |
Abstract | The colloquium is a series of scientific talks by prominent invited speakers assembling interested students and researchers from around Zürich. Students take part of the scientific discussions. | |||||
Objective | The students are exposed to different atmospheric science topics and learn how to take part in scientific discussions. | |||||
Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
701-1341-00L | Water Resources and Drinking Water | W | 3 credits | 2G | S. Hug, M. Berg, F. Hammes, U. von Gunten | |
Abstract | The course covers qualitative (chemistry and microbiology) and quantitative aspects of drinking water from the resource to the tap. Natural processes, anthropogenic pollution, legislation of groundwater and surface water and of drinking water as well as water treatment will be discussed for industrialized and developing countries. | |||||
Objective | The goal of this lecture is to give an overview over the whole path of drinking water from the source to the tap and understand the involved physical, chemical and biological processes which determine the drinking water quality. | |||||
Content | The course covers qualitative (chemistry and microbiology) and quantitative aspects of drinking water from the resource to the tap. The various water resources, particularly groundwater and surface water, are discussed as part of the natural water cycle influenced by anthropogenic activities such as agriculture, industry, urban water systems. Furthermore legislation related to water resources and drinking water will be discussed. The lecture is focused on industrialized countries, but also addresses global water issues and problems in the developing world. Finally unit processes for drinking water treatment (filtration, adsorption, oxidation, disinfection etc.) will be presented and discussed. | |||||
Lecture notes | Handouts will be distributed | |||||
Literature | Will be mentioned in handouts | |||||
701-1313-00L | Isotopic and Organic Tracers in Biogeochemistry | W | 3 credits | 2G | R. Kipfer, S. Ladd | |
Abstract | The course introduces the scientific concepts and typical applications of tracers in biogeochemistry. The course covers stable and radioactive isotopes, geochemical tracers and biomarkers and their application in biogeochemical processes as well as regional and global cycles. The course provides essential theoretical background for the lab course "Isotopic and Organic Tracers Laboratory". | |||||
Objective | The course aims at understanding the fractionation of stable isotopes in biogeochemical processes. Students learn to know the origin and decay modes of relevant radiogenic isotopes. They discover the spectrum of possible geochemical tracers and biomarkers, their potential and limitations and get familiar with important applications | |||||
Content | Geogenic and cosmogenic radionuclides (sources, decay chains); stable isotopes in biogeochemistry (nataural abundance, fractionation); geochemical tracers for processes such as erosion, productivity, redox fronts; biomarkers for specific microbial processes. | |||||
Lecture notes | handouts will be provided for every chapter | |||||
Literature | A list of relevant books and papers will be provided | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Students should have a basic knowledge of biogeochemical processes (BSc course on Biogeochemical processes in aquatic systems or equivalent) | |||||
701-1315-00L | Biogeochemistry of Trace Elements | W | 3 credits | 2G | A. Voegelin, M. Etique, L. Winkel | |
Abstract | The course addresses the biogeochemical classification and behavior of trace elements, including key processes driving the cycling of important trace elements in aquatic and terrestrial environments and the coupling of abiotic and biotic transformation processes of trace elements. Examples of the role of trace elements in natural or engineered systems will be presented and discussed in the course. | |||||
Objective | The students are familiar with the chemical characteristics, the environmental behavior and fate, and the biogeochemical reactivity of different groups of trace elements. They are able to apply their knowledge on the interaction of trace elements with geosphere components and on abiotic and biotic transformation processes of trace elements to discuss and evaluate the behavior and impact of trace elements in aquatic and terrestrial systems. | |||||
Content | (i) Definition, importance and biogeochemical classification of trace elements. (ii) Key biogeochemical processes controlling the cycling of different trace elements (base metals, redox-sensitive and chalcophile elements, volatile trace elements) in natural and engineered environments. (iii) Abiotic and biotic processes that determine the environmental fate and impact of selected trace elements. | |||||
Lecture notes | Selected handouts (lecture notes, literature, exercises) will be distributed during the course. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Students are expected to be familiar with the basic concepts of aquatic and soil chemistry covered in the respective classes at the bachelor level (soil mineralogy, soil organic matter, acid-base and redox reactions, complexation and sorption reactions, precipitation/dissolution reactions, thermodynamics, kinetics, carbonate buffer system). This lecture is a prerequisite for attending the laboratory course "Trace elements laboratory". | |||||
701-1346-00L | Carbon Mitigation | W | 3 credits | 2G | N. Gruber | |
Abstract | Future climate change can only kept within reasonable bounds when CO2 emissions are drastically reduced. In this course, we will discuss a portfolio of options involving the alteration of natural carbon sinks and carbon sequestration. The course includes introductory lectures, presentations from guest speakers from industry and the public sector, and final presentations by the students. | |||||
Objective | The goal of this course is to investigate, as a group, a particular set of carbon mitigation/sequestration options and to evaluate their potential, their cost, and their consequences. | |||||
Content | From the large number of carbon sequestration/mitigation options, a few options will be selected and then investigated in detail by the students. The results of this research will then be presented to the other students, the involved faculty, and discussed in detail by the whole group. | |||||
Lecture notes | None | |||||
Literature | Will be identified based on the chosen topic. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Exam: No final exam. Pass/No-Pass is assigned based on the quality of the presentation and ensuing discussion. | |||||
Ecology and Evolution | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
701-0263-01L | Seminar in Evolutionary Ecology of Infectious Diseases | W | 3 credits | 2G | D. Croll, S. Bonhoeffer, R. R. Regös | |
Abstract | Students of this course will discuss current topics from the field of infectious disease biology. From a list of publications, each student chooses some themes that he/she is going to explain and discuss with all other participants and under supervision. The actual topics will change from year to year corresponding to the progress and new results occuring in the field. | |||||
Objective | This is an advanced course that will require significant student participation. Students will learn how to evaluate and present scientific literature and trace the development of ideas related to understanding the ecology and evolutionary biology of infectious diseases. | |||||
Content | A core set of ~10 classic publications encompassing unifying themes in infectious disease ecology and evolution, such as virulence, resistance, metapopulations, networks, and competition will be presented and discussed. Pathogens will include bacteria, viruses and fungi. Hosts will include animals, plants and humans. | |||||
Lecture notes | Publications and class notes can be downloaded from a web page announced during the lecture. | |||||
Literature | Papers will be assigned and downloaded from a web page announced during the lecture. | |||||
701-1453-00L | Ecological Assessment and Evaluation | W | 3 credits | 3G | F. Knaus, U. Bollens Hunziker | |
Abstract | The course provides methods and tools for ecological evaluations dealing with nature conservation or landscape planning. It covers census methods, ecological criteria, indicators, indices and critically appraises objectivity and accuracy of the available methods, tools and procedures. Birds and plants are used as main example guiding through different case studies. | |||||
Objective | Students will be able to: 1) critically consider biological data books and local, regional, and national inventories; 2) evaluate the validity of ecological criteria used in decision making processes; 3) critically appraise the handling of ecological data and criteria used in the process of evaluation 4) perform an ecological evaluation project from the field survey up to the descision making and planning. | |||||
Lecture notes | Powerpoint slides are available on the webpage. Additional documents are handed out as copies. | |||||
Literature | Basic literature and references are listed on the webpage. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The course structure changes between lecture parts, seminars and discussions. The didactic atmosphere is intended as working group. Prerequisites for attending this course are skills and knowledge equivalent to those taught in the following ETH courses: - Pflanzen- und Vegetationsökologie - Systematische Botanik - Raum- und Regionalentwicklung - Naturschutz und Stadtbioökologie | |||||
701-1409-00L | Research Seminar: Ecological Genetics Minimum number of participants is 4. | W | 2 credits | 1S | A. Widmer, S. Fior | |
Abstract | In this research seminar we will critically discuss current topics in Ecological Genetics using publications from the leading scientific journals in this field. | |||||
Objective | It is our aim that participants gain insight into the current research topics and knowledge available in Ecological Genetics and learn to critically assess and appreciate scientific publications in this field. | |||||
Lecture notes | none | |||||
Literature | will be distributed | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Active participation in the discussions is a prerequisite for this course. | |||||
701-1425-01L | Genetic Diversity: Techniques Number of participants limited to 8. Selection of the students: order of registration Registration until 17.10.2016. | W | 2 credits | 2P | A. M. Minder Pfyl | |
Abstract | This course provides training for advanced students (master, doctoral or post-doctoral level) in how to measure and collect genetic diversity data from populations, experiments, field and laboratory. Different DNA/RNA extraction, genotyping and gene expression techniques will be addressed. Choice of topic by demand and/or availability of data. | |||||
Objective | To learn and improve on standard and modern methods of genetic data collection. Examples are: use of pyrosequencing, expression analysis, SNP-typing, next-generation sequencing, etc. A course for practicioners. | |||||
Content | After an introduction (one afternoon), students will have 3 weeks to work independently or in groups through different protocols. At the end the whole group meets for another afternoon to present the techniques/results and to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the different techniques. Techniques adressed are: RNA/DNA extractions and quality control, SNP genotyping, pyrosequencing, real-time qPCR. | |||||
Lecture notes | Material will be handed out in the course. | |||||
Literature | Material will be handed out in the course. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Two afternoons are hold in the class. The lab work will be done from the students according to their timetable, but has to be finished after 3 weeks. Effort is roughly 1-2 days per week, depending on the skills of the student. | |||||
701-1676-01L | Landscape Genetics Number of participants limited to 14. Prerequisites: good knowledge in population genetics and experience in using GIS is required. | W | 2 credits | 3G | R. Holderegger, J. Bolliger, F. Gugerli | |
Abstract | This six-day winter school aims at teaching advanced Master students, PhD students and postdocs on landscape genetics. It provides both theoretical background as well as hands-on exercises on major topics of contemporary landscape genetics and landscape genomics such as landscape effects on gene flow and adpative genetic variation in a landscape context. | |||||
Objective | Landscape genetics is an evolving scientific field of both basic and applied interest. Researchers as well as conservation managers make increasing use of landscape genetic thinking and methods. Landscape genetics builds on concepts and methods from landscape ecology and population genetics. This winter school introduces advanced students to major concepts and methods of landscape genetics and genomics, i.e. (i) the study of landscape effects on dispersal and gene flow and (ii) the study of the interactions between the environment and adaptive genetic variation. The winter school focuses on currently used methods and hands-on exercises. It is specifically aimed at the needs of advanced students (Master, PhD and postdocs). | |||||
Content | Themes: (1) Genetic data: estimates of gene flow; genetic distances; assignment tests and parentage analysis. (2) Landscape data: landscape resistance and least cost paths; transects (3) Landscape genetic analysis of gene flow: partial Mantel tests and causal modeling; multiple regression on distance matrices and mixed effects models. (4) Networks and graph theory. (5) Landscape genomics: adaptive genetic variation; outlier detection; environmental association. (6) Overlays: Bayesian clustering; barrier detection; kriging. | |||||
Lecture notes | Hand-outs will be distributed. | |||||
Literature | The course requires 4 hours of preparatory reading of selected papers on landscape genetics. These papers will be distributed by e-mail. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Grading will be according to a short written report (4 pages) on one of the themes of the course (workload: about 8 hours) and according to student contributions during the course. Prerequisites: students should have basic knowledge in population genetics, GIS and R. | |||||
551-0737-00L | Experimental Ecology: Evolution and Ecology | W | 2 credits | 2S | S. Bonhoeffer | |
Abstract | Interaction seminar. Student-mediated presentations, guests and discussions on current themes in ecology, evolutionary and population biology. | |||||
Objective | Getting familiar with scientific arguments and discussions. Overview of current research topics. Making contacts with fellow students in other groups. | |||||
Content | Scientific talks and discussions on changing subjects. | |||||
Lecture notes | None | |||||
Literature | None | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | For information and details: Link or contact: Link | |||||
Human-Environment Systems | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
701-1651-00L | Environmental Governance Number of participants limited to 30. | W | 3 credits | 2G | E. Lieberherr, G. de Buren, R. Schweizer | |
Abstract | The course addresses environmental policies, focusing on new steering approaches, which are generally summarized as environmental governance. The course also provides students with tools to analyze environmental policy processes and assesses the key features of environmental governance by examining various practical environmental policy examples. | |||||
Objective | To understand how an environmental problem may (not) become a policy and explain political processes, using basic concepts and techniques from political science. To analyze the evolution as well as the key elements of environmental governance. To be able to identify the main challenges and opportunities for environmental governance and to critically discuss them with reference to various practical policy examples. | |||||
Content | Improvements in environmental quality and sustainable management of natural resources cannot be achieved through technical solutions alone. The quality of the environment and the achievement of sustainable development strongly depend on human behavior and specifically the human uses of nature. To influence human behavior, we rely on public policies and other societal rules, which aim to steer the way humans use natural resources and their effects on the environment. Such steering can take place through government intervention alone. However, this often also involves governance, which includes the interplay between governmental and non-governmental actors, the use of diverse tools such as emission standards or financial incentives to steer actors' behavior and can occur at the local, regional, national or international level. In this course, we will address both the practical aspects of as well as the scientific debate on environmental governance. The course gives future environmental experts a strong basis to position themselves in the governance debate, which does not preclude government but rather involves a spectrum from government to governance. Key questions that this course seeks to answer: What are the core characteristics of environmental challenges from a policy perspective? What are key elements of 'environmental governance' and how legitimate and effective are these approaches in addressing persistent environmental challenges? | |||||
Lecture notes | Lecture slides and additional course material will be provided throughout the semester. | |||||
Literature | We will mostly work with readings from the following books: - Carter, N. (2007). The politics of the environment: Ideas, activism, policy (2nd ed.). Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. - Hogl, K., Kvarda, E., Nordbeck, R., Pregernig, M. (Eds) (2012): Environmental Governance: The Challenge of Legitimacy and Effectiveness. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar Publishing Limited. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | A detailed course schedule will be made available at the beginning of the semester. We recommend that students have (a) three-years BSc education of a (technical) university; (b) successfully completed Bachelor introductory course to environmental policy (Entwicklungen nationaler Umweltpolitik (or equivalent)) and (c) familiarity with key issues in environmental policy and some fundamental knowledge of one social science or humanities discipline (political science, economics, sociology, history, psychology, philosophy) |
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