Contents:
Environmental problems are complex and of a multidisciplinary character. In solving these problems often many actors are involved. Analyzing such complex problems requires an integrated approach. In this course, tools and methods are taught that can be used to analyze environmental issues while taking into account these interactions. Environmental systems analysis studies are often performed to assist decision-makers in finding solutions to specific environmental problems. In this course, attention is paid to interactions between researchers (systems analysts) and the users (decision-makers) of the results of environmental systems analysis studies.
The course starts with a general introduction in which a systems analysis procedure is presented. Next, tools and methods used in environmental systems analysis are introduced. Special attention is given to modelling. Group work study gives more insight in the use of environmental systems analysis and tools and methods.
Learning outcomes:
After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- describe the general procedure of environmental systems analysis (in steps);
- describe the basic characteristics of environmental systems analysis, with a focus on integrating knowledge from the natural and social science domains;
- describe the importance of the science-policy interface, with attention to integrated assessment models;
- apply the following tools that can be used in different steps of environmental systems analysis:
causal diagram;
stakeholder analysis;
ecosystem service analysis;
cost-benefit analysis;
scenario analysis;
environmental modelling;
multi-criteria analysis;
life cycle assessment;
environmental impact assessment;
- integrate the appropriate environmental systems analysis tools;
- perform a limited environmental systems analysis to analyze complex environmental problems.
