EV4802: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (2014-2015)

Course Aims: The course aim is to study environmental impacts through their identification, assessment and mitigation; The course will focus on the underlying policy and science; it will use varied approaches to identify, predict and evaluate impacts. The objectives of the course are as follows: * To develop knowledge and understanding of political drivers and scientific principles. * To develop intellectual skills in impact analysis. * To develop transferable skills in impact analysis. Main Learning Outcomes: * Knowledge and understanding of the guiding and operation principles of EIA. * Understanding the nature & problems associated with various projects. * Knowledge of the impacts posed by selected projects. * Appreciation of the complexities represented by/underlying positive or negative impacts. * Appreciation of the differences of national EIA systems, structural issues, procedural limitations and technical shortcomings. Content: * Origins of EIA; development of, and legislative background to, EIA in the US, EU, UK and worldwide. * The ideal EIA process and stages in this process. * The screening and scoping as key stages in the EIA process. * Impact identification, evaluation, prediction and mitigation. * Planning process, public involvement and decision making * Challenges facing EIA, future development and integration with other environmental management tools.

Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.

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1st Attempt: 1 written exam (50%), coursework (50%) Coursework is a Briefing Note for decision-makers (senior management) about the current state of the EIA in Scotland, and appraises the Scottish system through a comparison with two other EIA systems. The exam (2 hour) is based on an evaluation of a case study. Resit (only in exceptional cases): Similar to first attempt, with continuous assessment mark(s) and /or exam mark carried forward with an opportunity to resit either or both, depending on what was failed in the first attempt.

Tutorial sessions will provide opportunity for student-student and student-tutor interaction. Formative assessment will be provided during this interaction and during student-led discussions and tutor-led tutorials. A strong emphasis will be made throughout the course on informal verbal feedback during tutorial sessions.

Each student will receive individual feedback and a mark for the Briefing Note. Feedback will be provided as written comments. Students who are identified as having difficulty in successfully completing the coursework assessment tasks will be invited to meet members of the course team to identify difficulties and discuss solutions.

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