The aim of the course is to provide basic knowledge of environmental science, its interdisciplinary nature and applications. In course are described potential impacts of human activities and their influence to environment, as well as importance not only about direct impacts, but also indirect effects and possible cumulative effects to nature. Environmental science and their functions are described using systemic approach about element and energy fluxes, as well as explaining different protection strategies of nature and ecosystems. Environmental degradation and effects of climate change caused by the society with unsustainable usage of resources and management methods will be analyzed, also will be shown sustainable development goals and existing experience, applications. The course provides general knowledge of environmental processes, the impact of human activities on them and potential solutions to existing environmental problems and preventive actions. The tasks of the course is: 1. to provide environmental education in the study programs of higher education institutions, taking into account the provisions of the Environmental Protection Law (29.11.2006) article 42; 2. to provide theoretical knowledge of environmental science and sustainable development necessary to participate in smart decision-making processes and predict actions to ensure economic development, sustainable principles of resource management and mining without negative impact on the environment and its quality. Languages of instruction are Latvian and English.
Course responsible lecturer Māris Kļaviņš
Results Knowledge: 1. explains the basic principles of environmental science and the issues we are faced nowadays; 2. understands main environmental problems and explains their possible solutions; 3. describe potential risks of human interaction with environment; 4. understands the principles of nature protection and sustainability in solving related problems; Skills: 5. independently develops and improves knowledge of environmental issues (main environmental problems and their possible solutions); 6. acts in the context of the circular economy and is critical of published environmental information in media; 7. analyses environmental, natural, and related economic and social problems, environmental quality in Latvia and Europe; Competence: 8. identifies nature conservation issues and addresses them to the appropriate level of competence; 9. implements activities in accordance with the basic principles of sustainable development; 10. applicates knowledge about significant environmental issues in practice.
