This programme will give you a fundamental understanding of the issues affecting the Earth enabling you to play a vital role in devising and enacting strategies to protect and conserve the environment, both in Europe and beyond. Human activities are recognised as having an increasingly significant effect on the Earth's biosphere. Our use of natural resources, deforestation, soil erosion, the release of potentially toxic compounds and pathogens, and the increase in greenhouse gases are all examples of pressures that have potentially serious consequences for humanity and other life on Earth. On this programme you will learn about the issues that face the Earth and gain an in-depth understanding of natural resource management and the processes that give rise to environmental degradation and pollution problems. It will allow you to play a vital role in planning and putting into action strategies to protect and conserve the environment. This programme is affiliated with the University's Global Environment and Society Academy. Students will develop a scientific understanding of some of the major processes which influence the quality of land, air and water resources; acquire knowledge of the most effective methods of environmental protection; develop expertise in the design and implementation of programmes of environmental protection; have the opportunity to study the integrated protection and management of particular ecosystems or resources.