ERSC 1304 - Earth and the Environment

This is an introductory environmental geology course that examines interactions between human beings and our changing planet, the affects of natural/geologic hazards on humans, and anthropogenic (human-caused) impacts on nature, geology, and society. Fundamental geologic concepts such as plate tectonics, geologic time, and surficial processes are used as a basis for understanding a variety of natural processes. The course topics include natural and anthropogenic geologic hazards (earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, and land subsidence), climate change, environmental issues, as well as the impact of mineral extraction and water resource utilization.