Environmental Pollution and Degradation

At the end of this course students will be able to: 1. Explain the meaning of environmental problems with examples; 2. discuss the ethical, cross-cultural, and historical context of environmental issues and links to human and natural systems; 3. state the types and causes of environmental degradation and pollutants in the society 4. discuss the impact of wastes on human health with suitable examples; 5. mention the barriers to solving environmental problems in the country and the way forward; and 6. explain the concepts and implications of Ozone layer depletion and the greenhouse effect.

Environmental Problems - Meaning and definition of environmental problem. Recognition of environmental problem. Nature, magnitude and severity of environmental problem. Causes and sources of environmental problems. Barriers to solving environmental problems. Dealing with/solving environmental: preventive measures; remedial measures. Comprehensive studies of the types, causes and consequences of environmental degradation. Highlights of environmental degradation factors (such as uncontrolled deforestation, urbanization, industrialization, wars, erosion, flood, desertification, salinity and bush fires) Protective measures to sustainably conserve and manage the environment. Sources of pollution. Major pollutants of air, soil and water; noise pollution, management of pollutants; Ozone layer depletion and the greenhouse effect.