1
UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH
SCHOOL OF GEOSCIENCES
Grant Institute of Earth Science
THE FINAL YEAR HONOURS COURSE
UTENVGE
2013-2014
ENVIRONMENTAL GEOSCIENCE
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COURSE CO-ORDINATOR
Degree Programme Convenor:
Dr Raja Ganeshram
Ext.:0131 650 7364; e-mail: Raja.Ganeshram@ed.ac.uk
EG4 Coordinator:
Dr Bryne Ngwenya
Ext.:0131 650 8508; e-mail: Bryne.Ngwenya@ed.ac.uk
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
COURSE OBJECTIVES AND LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Environmental Geoscience 4 (EG4) is designed to build on previous years materials presented in the
Oceanography and Global Environmental Processes courses, the 3rd Year Quaternary Environmental Change,
Aquatic Processes, and Environmental Techniques and Applications, Hydrogeology I, Environmental
Pollution and during fieldtrips to Jamaica and Oban.
The EG4 programme will be delivered through a combination of lectures, fieldwork and independent and
group research projects. A number of the courses will incorporate student literature searches, seminars, group
discussions, and essays. Together with the research project reports, these are intended to provide practical
experience in collecting, synthesising and interpreting environmental data, in critical assessment of
information, and in written or oral presentation of the results.
The objectives of the course are to:
1. Develop a theoretical understanding of fundamental geophysical, geochemical, geological and
biological processes that control the nature of the Earth’s surface and near-surface environments and
the fates of natural and contaminant materials.
2. Develop an understanding of the ways in which the natural and anthropogenic processes interact
within different environments.
3. Develop familiarity and practical experience with field and laboratory techniques that may be used to
examine the surface and nearsurface geosphere.
4. Develop experience in the design and execution of independent scientific research projects, from the
planning stage through field sampling, laboratory analysis and data processing and interpretation.
5. Develop experience in drawing together different types of information in addressing environmental
questions.
6. Develop an appreciation of the context and role of the geosciences within the broader field of
environmental science, and, in particular, to gain sufficient appreciation of the ‘big picture’ so as to
be able to communicate and work effectively with environmental scientists from a wide range of
disciplines.
7. Develop skills and knowledge base required to practice Environmental Geosciences as a profession
through compulsory and option courses.
8. Develop time and personal management skills. Learning to multi-task and meet deadlines are
integral parts of the degree.
9. Develop generic skills such as group study, data analysis and interpretation, literature research,
scientific reporting, and oral and visual communication.
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ASSESSMENT:
The honours degree final mark is based on a 50% contribution from EG3 (based on your final mark for EG3)
and a 50% contribution from EG4. The EG4 consists of 80 units of core courses and 40 units of optional
courses. The EG4 core course is assessed by a mixture of fieldtrip and project reports, seminars,
essays/reports executed during the year and by exams in May. In addition, the option courses will have their
own assessment format. Further details of the style and content of all exams will be provided during the
year.
[NOTE: Appeals against examination results on the basis of illness can only be considered if the relevant
medical certificate is received before the meeting of the Board of Examiners].
INFORMATION:
Information will be sent to you via your university e-mail account.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU CHECK YOUR E-MAIL REGULARLY as this is the most efficient way of
getting information to you fast.
PROBLEMS AND QUESTIONS:
You are encouraged to maintain a regular dialogue with all members of the EG4 teaching staff,
throughout the year.
Do not wait until the end of the year to get clarification, or background reading, on lecture material
(etc.) that you do not fully understand.
Also, your comments on the course are welcome! You will be asked to provide thorough feedback at
the end of the year, but we will take constructive suggestions on board from the beginning.
Any questions relating to specific aspects of the course should be directed in the first instance either to the
specific lecturer concerned or to the Course Organiser for that particular component. Course Organisers for
each component of the EG4 programme are given below. Any more general questions on the course, exams,
projects etc. should be directed to Nikki Muir/Katie Leith or to the EG4 Course Co-ordinator.
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Environmental GeoSciences (EG4) COURSE SUMMARY
The EG4 spread over 80 units of core courses and 40 units of optional courses. The assessed components of
each core course and the relative contribution of each assessment are indicated in brackets.
Applied Environmental Geochemistry (EASC10048)
1. EGeochem Theory Exam (100%)
10 units
Semester1
Global Environmental Change (EASC10050)
2. GEC seminar presentation (30%)
3. GEC essay (70%)
10 units
Semester 2
Environmental Problems and Issues (EASC10049)
10 units
Semester 1
Environmental Geoscience Research Projects (EASC10009)
6. Research Project Report (85%)
7. Research Project literature review (10%)
8. Oral exams (5%)
40 units
Semesters 1&2
Environmental Geoscience 4th year field course
9. Oban field course report (100%)
10 units
Semester 1
4. EPI seminar Presentations (30%)
5. EPI Theory Exam (70%)
Total Core courses:
Option Courses:
80 units
40 units
Recommended Option Courses:
The EG4 provides a choice of 40 units of options courses in the 4th year and these can be split between
semesters 1 and 2. The recommended option courses are listed below and detailed descriptions are provided
towards the end of the booklet. Note that Semester 1 option courses may hold exams during the December.
Code
ECSC10013
PGGE11067
PGGE11053
ECSC10012
PGGE11172
ECSC10027
EASC10077
EASC10084
EASC10083
Course Name
Land Use Policy
Principles of Geographical Information Science
Fundamentals for Remote Sensing
Land Use and Water Resources
Environmental Geochemistry
Current Issues in Ecology
Hydrogeology 2: Simulation of Groundwater Flow and Transport
Earth Surface Processes
Marine Systems and Policies (UG)
Units
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
Semester
S1
S1
S1
S1
S1
S2
S2
S2
S2
Students may be able to take other earth sciences 10 credit option courses in semester 2. This is subject to the
approval of Degree programme convenor (Dr. Raja Ganeshram) and availability of space and meeting the
prerequisites. 20 credit options are not allowed.
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CORE COURSES
A. APPLIED ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY (EASC 10048)
Course Organiser and team: Greg Cowie & Bryne Ngwenya.
Format: 14 x 1.5 hr lectures, 1st Semester; General format = ca. 50 min lecture followed by 10 minute break
and 15-30 minute discussion or problem-solving session. (total contact time = 21 hours)
Method of Assessment (10 credits): May theory exam
Objectives and Learning Outcomes:
This course is intended as a continuation of the 3rd-year Aquatic Processes course, and also to build on
concepts and methods previously introduced during field trips and the Environmental Techniques and
Applications course. Fundamental concepts of trace-metal, organic and stable isotope geochemistry are put
into a practical, “applied” context. Thus, EG4 students should gain a synoptic exposure to key natural and
anthropogenic processes and issues relevant to terrestrial, aquatic and marine systems, and the potential
applications of geochemical tracers. Lectures will include case studies from the literature and will be
supplemented by discussion/problem-solving sessions.
COURSE STRUCTURE
(order of lecture delivery may vary)
L1&2 Stable isotope geochemistry: Principles of environmental applications of the light isotopes. Stable
isotopes of carbon and nitrogen. Case studies of specific applications in the marine and terrestrial
environments. (GC)
L3&4 Sedimentary diagenesis and controls on organic matter distributions: A discussion of the processes
and environmental conditions that control the generation of organic-rich sedimentary deposits and the
makeup of sedimentary organic matter records. (GC)
L5 Fossil fuels: Long-term organic matter alteration and preservation, from diagenesis through
metagenesis. Definitions of terms and environmental processes, and contrasts between marine and
terrestrial systems. (GC)
L6 Geochemistry of organic contaminants: Descriptions of the major classes of organic contaminants
and their cycling and fate in natural environments. (GC)
L7-9 Organic tracer applications: "Biomarkers" as indicators of source, biological and abiotic geochemical
processes, and environmental conditions. A variety of tracers will be described and their applications,
alone or combined with other parameters (e.g. inorganic or stable isotopic tracers), will be illustrated
with a number of case studies. (GC)
L10 Introduction to trace-metal geochemistry: Controls on behaviour: speciation, redox effects, organic
complexation, sorption. (BN)
L11 Trace metal behaviour in aquatic environments: Lake and ocean water column profiles; sediment
profiles and redox; estuarine processes. (BN)
L12 Trace metal behaviour in terrestrial environments: Trace metals in soils, rivers and groundwaters;
Techniques for trace metal speciation and their geochemical basis. (BN)
L13 The role of surfaces in trace metal cycling: Nature of mineral surfaces, surface speciation and
development of surface charge, impact on metal adsorption and adsorption mechanisms, surface
complexation models. (BN)
L14 Microbial metal geochemistry: Microbe-metal interactions, nature of microbial cell surfaces,
modelling microbe-metal interactions. (BN)
Recommended texts:
1 An introduction to organic geochemistry, Killops and Killops, Longman.
2 An introduction to environmental chemistry, Andrews et al, Blackwell.
3 An introduction to marine biogeochemistry, Libes, Wiley.
4 Introduction to Environmental Chemistry, Bunce, Wuerz.
5. Global Environment: Water, air and geochemical cycles, Berner and Berner.
6. The Geochemistry of Natural Waters, Drever.
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B. GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE (EASC10050)
Course Organiser + Team: Raja Ganeshram, Dick Kroon, Gabi Hegrel, Pete Nienow & Simon Tett
Format: 30 minute staff introduction each week; each student to give 1 x 15 minute seminar for
assessment; Semester 2; total contact time = 5 hours lectures + 12 hours student seminars.
Method of Assessment (10 credits): Seminar + class participation (30%) and essay 70%
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes:
Investigation of controversial ‘hot-topics’ in the subject areas of global environmental variability and change.
These topics will be introduced by the lecturer, read about by all students, using recent articles in the
literature, then will form the basis for student seminars and general group discussion. The objective is to
develop an understanding and recognition of the principal agents of environmental change, the subject areas
of continued uncertainty, the strengths and weaknesses of specific tracers, and, importantly, to help further
develop the student’s skills in critical assessment of scientific literature, as well as seminar presentation and
debate.
COURSE STRUCTURE
Themes will vary with year, depending on what is topical. Examples of topics from past years are:
1. Past warm climate periods in earth’s history
2. What caused the glacial-interglacial changes in CO2?
3. Stability of ice sheets & sea level change
4. Impacts of warming climate
5. Debate surrounding ongoing global change
6. Future climate change predictions
C. ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS AND ISSUES (EASC10049)
Course Organiser + Team: Greg Cowie, Stuart Haszeldine, Ian Main, Sandy Tudhope, Dave Reay
Format: 18 x 1 hour lectures, 5 x 2-hour seminar sessions. Semester 1. Students to give 2 x 20 minute
seminar each; total contact time = 31 hours (including Group Project presentations, Semester 2).
Method of Assessment (10 credits): Theory exam, seminars.
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes:
This course deals with the current state of the Earth and the role of geosciences in developing an
understanding of the interactions between Man’s activities and natural cycles. It has been broken into 4
themes that are intended to complement other EG4 courses as well as to permit students to pursue in-depth
studies of processes within the context of specific problems and case studies. By examining a range of reallife problems, the student will gain an appreciation of the ways in which processes interact within different
settings. The course is particularly concerned with familiarising students with the interface between
geosciences and other science disciplines in tackling environmental problems. Student seminars, to be based
on topics set from each of the themes, and Group Projects (see below), will provide the student with
experience in collecting, synthesising and critically assessing information, and in presentation and discussion
of the results.
COURSE STRUCTURE
PART 1: Atmospheric Processes (Dave Reay, Meteorology)
 Global warming: Radiative forcing of climate change, observed variability and change, climate feedback
mechanism, climate modelling
 Atmospheric N deposition: sources and impacts, predictions and mitigation
 Pollution at the Earth's surface: Atmospheric controls on concentration, transport of pollutants, wet and
dry deposition of pollutants. Modelling of pollution concentrations.
PART 2: Estuarine Processes (Greg Cowie)
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 Physical and biogeochemical processes occurring in estuaries, and how these interact to control the
cycling and fate of natural and contaminant materials.
 Estuarine dynamics and classification; Processes occurring across the freshwater /marine interface;
Eutrophication and other anthropogenic impacts and pollution issues in the coastal zone; Consequences of
estuaries for global biogeochemical cycles; Case studies. (4 lectures).
PART 3: Natural Seismic and Climatic Hazards (Ian Main)
 Earthquake phenomenology causes & effects hazard & risk. Quantification and preparation forecasting what are the chances?
 Tsunami - causes, effects and early warning (4 lectures)

PART 4: El Nino and Other Sources of Climate Variability, and Environmental Issues Facing Coral
Reefs (Sandy Tudhope).
 The nature, mechanisms and drivers of interannual to interdecadal climate variability with a focus on El
Nino (2 lectures), and,
 The science behind: coral bleaching, potential impacts of changing seawater CO2 on coral reefs;
eutrophication; pathogens in reef systems; plagues; controls on species diversity; species composition and
relative abundance on reefs at different spatial and temporal scales; phase shifts in the reef ecosystem (2
lectures).
PART 5: Radioactivity and radioactive wastes (Stuart Haszeldine)
 What is radioactivity? Natural radioactivity in the UK. Nuclear power cycle. Reprocessing
 Human releases of radioactivity in the UK. Natural geological sites of high radioactivity. Geology and
geochemistry of deep disposal world-wide
 Waste types in the UK. Shallow disposal in the UK. Deep geological disposal at Sellafield, UK
 Geochemistry of deep disposal at Sellafield, UK. Existing and future disposal options in the UK and
world-wide. (4 lectures)
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D. UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH PROJECTS (EASC10009):
The objective of Research project is to provide experience in planning and implementing independent
sampling and/or analytical research plans addressing a specific environmental question (with help from an
Advisor and support staff). Field- and preliminary laboratory work will be carried out over 4 approximately
weeks during the summer break preceding EG4. Laboratory work and data processing will continue in
Semester 1.
A Literature Review, totalling 2500 words (excluding bibliography), is due the first week of semester 1
(18/09/2012). This should provide scientific background for the project, a listing and explanation of the main
questions and objectives, and a description and explanation of sampling and analytical approaches. Full and
proper literature citation should be used.
Progress seminars (15-20 minutes, not assessed) will be conducted in weeks 4 (7/10/2013) and 11
(25/11/2013) of Semester 1. The first of these should briefly outline the project objectives and approach, and
should clearly present the extent of progress on sampling and analytical work as well as a timetable for
completion. The second should provide a near-complete assessment of the collected data, leaving sufficient
time to complete the final written report (Deadline week 2 in second semester, 24/01/2014). Feedback will
be provided by project advisors and other EG staff attending the progress seminars.
Regular liaison with your advisor is expected, but planning, scheduling and carrying out your research
project, and preparation of interim and final reports, will be your responsibility.
Assessment will be based on your report, field book/maps and your lab’ book, as well as your literature
review. Any delay in submitting any of the assessed components or failure to attend your progress seminars
will require a medical certificate. A penalty of 10% of the final mark per day will be given to those who fail
to submit their dissertation reports on time.
Course Organiser (General queries, Progress Seminars organisation and Coordinating Final Marking) Dr.
Bryne Ngwenya)
Please note that a detailed. Separate dissertation booklet will be provided to you.

Research dissertation and literature review:

Oral exams (Course Organiser: Dr. Raja Ganeshram)
Finally, there will be a two-stage Oral Assessment. This will be conducted in the format of an interview.
Practice will be provided through a mock oral exam during Week 6 of Semester 2. Further information will
be provided in Semester 2.
This course has several deadlines throughout the year. Any delays in submissions must be justified
by medical certificate or will be subject to a mark penalty.
Important deadlines:
Assessment
Deadline
Delivery mode
Dissertation Literature Review
18/09/2013, 4pm
Turnitin
Oban Field Report
23/09/2013, 4pm
Turnitin
Dissertation Progress Seminar 1
07/10/2013
Oral
Dissertation Progress Seminar 2
25/11/2013
Oral
Dissertation Final Report
24/01/2014, 4pm
Two
hard
copies,
laboratory/field notebooks,
electronic copy - Turnitin.
Oral Exam
2/04/2014 (all day)
Interview format
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OPTION COURSES



Please note the following in selecting your options: We provide a list of recommended
options below. These courses are carefully selected to meet the needs of the EG degree
programme in discussion with the course organisers. You are only allowed to take 10
credit options in the 4th year. 20 credit options are not allowed. This is to ensure that
you have exposure to a number of subject areas.
Many of the options courses listed here have class limits and hence your enrolment is
subject to availability of space. Students are recommended to sign up for option
course as early as possible. Please be aware some option courses may not run every
year.
EG students may be able to take other earth sciences 10 credit option courses in
semester 2. This is subject to the approval of degree programme convenor (Dr. Raja
Ganeshram) and availability of space and meeting the prerequisites. Please discuss
with your Degree Programme Convenor first if you wish to take any other option
course that is not in the recommended list.
E. PRINCIPLES OF GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION (PGGE11067)
Course organiser - Dr William Mackaness
Semester 1 – Thursdays 2-6pm, 1-6 weeks, Old College Lecture Theatre 183.
No prerequisites. It is RECOMMENDED that students have passed Environmental Sensitivity and Change
(GEGR08001) AND Economic and Political Geography (GEGR08003) or equivalent earth science courses
Degree assessment (10 credits): One two-hour examination (2 questions) 50%; One computer-based GIS
project (2000 words) 50%
This module provides an essential background for students with limited knowledge of the field and a
foundation for other modules. The module begins by tracing the origins and recent rapid development of GIS
and outlines the basic differences between GIS and related technologies of digital mapping, CAD and
DBMS. Principles covered include co-ordinate reference systems, map projections and the different models
that GIS employ to represent real-world entities. Also considered are the effects that these models and the
analytical functionality of systems have on the information that can be derived. Vector and raster data
models are explained and there is an introduction to representing 3D and temporal phenomena. Basic
elements of graphic design and communication are reviewed to ensure that output from GIS is
comprehensible and effective. The module concludes by addressing the wider social and economic factors
that influence the success or failure of GIS in an institution. A series of associated practicals reinforce lecture
material and provide a practical hands-on introduction tailored for new users of GIS.
F. LAND USE POLICY (ECSC 10013)
Course Organiser - Dr John Moncrieff
Semester 1 – Friday 2-5pm, Crew Annex Room 5, KB
Assessment (10 Credits) - One in-course assessment in the form of an essay (50%)
One written examination (50%)
Users of rural land in Britain are experiencing both inducements and constraints on what they may or may
not do on this basic resource and increasingly wider public interests are influencing the boundaries within
which social and economic activities are allowable.
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This unit introduces students to a variety of discussion leaders from commercial, governmental and nongovernmental organisations all with their own particular viewpoint and expertise in land use policy; and
through presentations, seminars and visits explores the main inducements and constraints which have shaped
land use in the past and which continue to shape the rural economy and environment of the future.
To gain an integrated knowledge of the constraints and stimuli which affect land use in Britain. Legislative,
institutional and support influences will be examined in detail in terms of their socio-economic and
environmental impacts and students will learn how to deal with complex political and ethical issues in
accordance with current professional practices. Students are expected to learn how to critically identify land
use barriers and offer professional insights and interpretations to these problems. The presentations and
seminars with discussion leaders from commercial, governmental and non-governmental organisations will
give students practise in communicating with professional level peers and senior colleagues.
G. LAND USE AND WATER RESOURCES (ECSC 10012)
Course Organsiers- Kate Heal & Neil Stuart
Semester 1 – Thursday 2-3:30 pm, Rm 213 Drummond Geography
Assessment (10 Credits)- Group presentation & report on hydrological model building (50%) (750-word
equivalent) Degree examination – ONE question in TWO hours (50%)
The successful management of the quantity and quality of water resources requires an understanding of both
hydrological processes and the techniques for making relevant information available for decision-making.
This course examines the fundamental relationships between land use and water resources. Students then
explore how simulation modelling may allow relevant hydrological data to be analysed to support integrated
catchment management.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
 To critically review the basic hydrological and geomorphological processes relevant for river
catchment management;
 To have a comprehensive understanding of the processes by which the use of land for agriculture,
and urbanisation may affect river flows and water quality;
 To understand and be able to construct simple simulation models in hydrology and interpret, use and
evaluate the graphical data produced;
 To consolidate data from a variety of sustainable urban drainage structures and make informed
judgements about the performance of these structures and devices;
 To formally present this data to informed audiences;
 To understand the principles and structures for sustainable urban drainage;
 To appreciate the application of these ideas for river restoration and flood control projects;
 To have a detailed knowledge of how to apply understanding of physical processes and
contemporary management practices in the context of current legislative frameworks;
 To be aware of contemporary developments affecting the management of water resources through
the attendance of additional lectures given by professional hydrologists and river managers;
 In the degree examination students are expected to apply their knowledge to evaluate complex,
professional level problems associated with the suitability of different contemporary techniques and
management practices in water resource management.
TEACHING METHODS
The course will be taught by a series of lectures, supplemented by computer based practical work for modelbuilding exercises and a field visit. Students will also individually research and make a group presentation
about an aspect of sustainable urban drainage systems. Students have the opportunity to attend additional
lectures on relevant real-world issues in water resources, given by visiting speakers.
Week
Content
11
1
Conflicting demands on water resources
2
Land use & water resources: agriculture, urbanisation
3
Field visit to SUDS Dunfermline East Expansion Site
4
Group Presentations on SUDS structures
5
Hydrological models and model building methods
6
Simulation techniques – calibration, validation, measuring efficiency
7
Land use & water resources: forests
8
Hand in modelling report 12.00
GEGR10023 (CWR) 1 hardcopy to Geography Office, Drummond Street,
plus 1 softcopy uploaded to WebCT;
ECSC10012 (LUWR) 1 hardcopy to Meredith Corey, Crew 215, plus 1
softcopy uploaded to WebCT
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Flooding and flood control and Flood Prevention Schemes in Edinburgh
9
Fluvial geomorphology for river management and restoration
10
Revision class
10
Surgery session: hydrological modelling
11
Natural flood management
H. HYDROGEOLOGY II: SIMULATION OF GROUNDWATER FLOW AND TRANSPORT
(EASC10077)
Course Organiser : Chris McDermott.
10 Credits - Assessment 60% Course work and exercises and 40% Exam
Format: 10 x 3 hour lectures/tutorials, total contact time = 30 hours
Prerequisite Hydrogeology 1.
Pre-requisites
Normally the student taking this course will have taken and passed Hydrogeology 1. This may be
waived under certain circumstances. Maths is not a pre-requisite, we are teaching hydrogeology not
maths, but maths tools will be used.
Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course students should understand the principal areas, features, boundaries,
terminology and conventions of groundwater and solute transport modelling. They should
understand the concepts of the development of partial differential balance equations describing
groundwater flow, solute and heat transport; have a good understanding of the finite difference and
finite element methods of solving the balance equations and will understand calibration, validation,
sensitivity analysis and verification. They should have a critical understanding of the principal
theories, concepts and principles. Students will develop a hydrogeological conceptual model into a
predictive model of groundwater and contaminant transport based on a scenario of saltwater
intrusion into a coastal aquifer. Students should understand the key principles behind most
numerical models of flow and transport (readily applicable beyond the field of hydrogeology) and
will understand the key constraints required for solving the balance equations such as different
boundary conditions, initial conditions, source terms, time control and mesh generation. Students
will principally be trained in the use of a finite element research code, but also gain experience of
an industry groundwater and solute transport model code, Visual Modflow.
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The course covers the following topics:
 Modelling groundwater flow and transport in the subsurface;
 Hydrogeological relevant material parameters in the subsurface;
 Worked examples of finite difference, finite element and finite volume modelling
approaches
 Generic model design
 Tutorials and application of finite element software for flow and mass transport.
(OpenGeosys)
 Field visit and assignment of parameters
Recommended Literature
Anderson, M and Woessner, William: Applied Groundwater Modelling, Simulation of Flow and Advective
Transport, 381 pages, Academic Press; 1st edition (1991) ISBN-10: 0120594854, ISBN-13: 9780120594856
Freeze, R .A. and J.A. Cherry (1979): Groundwater.- Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs
Fetter, C.W. (2001): Applied Hydrogeology.- Prentice Hall, Englewood Cliffs
Fetter, C.W. (1993): Contaminant Hydrogeology. - Macmillan Publishing Company, New York; S. 458
McDermott, C.I. Inside Finite Elements for Outsiders. (Available on WebCT)
I. MARINE SYSTEMS AND POLICIES (EASC10083)
Course Organizer: Dr. Meriwether Wilson
Semester 2, Friday 9-12.45
Assessment (10 credits): Group presentation 40% & 2500 word Policy Position Paper 60%
Marine (coastal and ocean) environments are fundamental features of the Earth system and profoundly
influenced by human interactions. These ecosystems are trans-boundary and multi-dimensional, so policy
instruments governing the utilization of coastal ocean systems are complex. Policies, laws and regulations
are often disconnected to the scale and dynamics of targeted ecosystems and species in both time and space,
e.g. oceanographic processes, migratory species, and multi-site life stages. Many global to local scale
policies when viewed through an ecosystem lens, can be more effective, support deeper understanding of
ecosystem processes, and take into account cumulative impacts of social pressures and environmental
change, from the past and looking ahead.
This course will use case-study based examples to explore linkages between different scales of
coastal-ocean ecosystem processes and ecological dynamics in connection with applicable scales of policy
instruments. E.g. Law of the Sea for seabed and oceanic properties; Convention of Biodiversity for habitats
and species; UNESCO World Heritage for trans-boundary and multi-site contexts. Regional conventions
map well to regional scales of semi-enclosed seas, continental margins. Local codes and policies are often
framed around permitted-activities and zoning, e.g. fishing regulations, coastal zoning.
The first part of the course examines diverse exemplary case studies across a range of biomes, scales,
issues through which suitability of different policies will be examined and tested. Examples of case study
scales: Archipelagos and Islands, Estuaries and Semi-enclosed Seas, Continental Margins and Shelves,
Urbanizing Shorelines and Global Oceans. Building on these examples, students will conduct their own case
studies and develop the following skills:
 Capacity to conduct policy analysis and solutions for different settings and scales
 Writing and reviews of key literature and policies.
 Leadership and participation in group discussions.
 Team based oral presentations.
 Researching, constructing and delivering individual policy papers.
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This course will help students in preparing for positions in governments, NGOs, environmental consultancy,
and private enterprise, which require competency at the science-policy interface, and to enable critical
analysis of marine environments and social interactions.
J. EARTH SURFACE PROCESSES (EASC 10084)
Course Organiser and Team: Dr. Bryne T. Ngwenya (BTN) and Dr. Oliver Knox (OGK, SAC)
SEMESTER 2 TUESDAYS 9-12AM
Assessment (10 Credits): Assessment will be in the form of an essay chosen from a set of topics designed to
cover (a) critical appraisal/debate of evidence/concepts from literature, (b) synthesis of ideas and/or (c)
evidence-based assessment of policy issues/developments. Deadline: Week 9 of Semester 2 (14/03/2014).
Rationale and objectives
The Earth’s near surface environment, also known as the Critical Zone is defined as the Earth’s outer layer
from vegetation canopy to the soil and groundwater that sustains human life. As such, it forms the interface
through which biology has the largest impact on geology, with potential for irreversible anthropogenic
disturbance. The Earth Surface Processes course takes a holistic view of the natural geochemical processes in
this zone and how these processes are modified by human/biological activities in order to develop the science
base that underpins development of policies for dealing with contamination of this critical interface. The
objectives of the course are:

To understand the basic processes which influence the physical and chemical properties of the Earth’s
critical zone terrestrial environment;

To explore the way in which these processes have interacted during the recent geological past to
determine the character of shallow systems;

To examine the way in which human behaviour has modified the Earth’s critical zone and how
geological understanding can help in remediating past damage and planning for future sustainable use.

To develop critical appraisal of these interactions as a basis for improving regulatory framework.
Delivery mode
The course will be delivered through a mixture of lectures, suggested reading followed by focussed
discussion and debates on important scientific/policy issues. The following topics will be covered:
1. Water-rock interaction and material cycling in the Earth’s critical zone (BTN): Controls on mineral
weathering rates. Field and laboratory methods for quantifying weathering, Field versus laboratory
measurements, effects of temperature on mineral dissolution rates, organic-mineral and organic-metal
interactions; mechanisms of mineral dissolution reactions. Discussion topic: What is the evidence
for/against the leached layer hypothesis of mineral weathering?
2. Interpreting Rock weathering at catchment scale (BTN): Factors controlling rock weathering in
catchments, links to climate through glacial processes and mountain building; the Amazon Basin case
study for interpreting catchment scale weathering rates. Geochemical tracers of weathering and soil
formation, consequences for engineering properties of soils using the Hong Kong case study for
geotechnical and landslide regulation.
3. Coupling between biology and earth materials in the Earth’s critical zone (BTN): The geospherebiosphere interface, role of biology in mineral growth and alteration. Mechanisms of biological
weathering, Role of bacteria in acidic mine drainage, Effects on soil, groundwater and surface water
sustainability.
4. Links between population growth, waste generation and disturbance of the Earth’s critical zone
(OGK, SAC): (i) Trends in population growth, resource exploitation and waste production,
environmental degradation and sustainable development? (a) Population growth and pressures linked to
resource use and increased pollution. (b) Exemplify a historical and scientific approach through the
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following examples: Thomas Malthus Essay on the principles of population, Club of Rome/Limits to
growth, Limits to Growth 30(40) year update
(ii) Environmental management: Soils as a non-renewable resource in environmental management and
stewardship. Sustainable use and sustainable development. What is sustainable? Bruntland Commission
(1987). Legislation relating to soil management Soil management processes. Land Use Strategy for
Scotland. Environmental Impact Assessments - offering enhancement over mitigation.
(iii) Waste Policy Framework, EU legislation on what is waste. Waste Framework Directive. EU Landfill
directive, Zero Waste Scotland, Solutions to waste generation. Controlling waste and methods of dealing
with waste. Reducing waste as a method to offset potential global shortages
(iv) Discussion/debate topic (a) Is there a link between population growth and critical zone degradation?
What is the future for humanity and the planet? (b) ) Has the EU Landfill Directive been a success? At
what level is this success measured
5. Scientific basis of the Contaminated Land Act 1990 (BTN/OGK): Contamination and risk assessment
(Source-pathway-target concept), Legal framework, contaminant transport and prediction, geological and
experimental determination of transport parameters. Discussion/debate topics to include: (i) what is the
scientific basis of the Contaminated Land Act? (ii) Are Soil Guideline values relevant?
Learning Outcomes

Learning how to integrate information and data from various sources into a coherent framework that
helps them design problem-based investigations.

Visualising and applying this information to natural settings and at different scales in order to facilitate
prediction.

Gaining an appreciation of the link between theory and technology in order to develop a practical
approach to problem solving.

Appreciating the impact of human activities on the near-surface environment and learning how to
develop strategies for sustainable use of the environment.
K. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY (PGGE11172)
Course Organiser and Team: Dr. Margaret Graham
Semester 1 Friday 11.10-12 pm and 12.10-1 pm
The assessment comprises an oral presentation (25%) and an essay (75%).
This course consists of 14 one-hour lectures and 6 one-hour tutorial/discussion/presentation sessions. The
lectures cover the main characteristics and geochemical processes of soils and waters, a fundamental
treatment of acid-base equilibria in aquatic systems, and an inregrated approach to redox and complexation
equilibria in soil waters. The second hour involves discussion of case studies which develop the concepts
presented in the lectures. These sessions are devoted to worked examples, including computer lab
spreadsheet construction for problem-solving as well as student presentations and discussion of case studies
and research literature. The second hour involves discussion of case studies which develop the concepts
presented in the lectures.
Learning Outcomes

Learning various geochemical processes in soils and waters .

Applying this information to natural settings and at different scales in order to facilitate prediction.

Gaining an appreciation of the link between theory and practice to develop a practical approach to
problem solving.
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
Appreciating the impact of human activities and pollutant behaviour in soils water systems
L. CURRENT ISSUES IN ECOLOGY (ECSC10027)
Course Organiser and Team: Drs. Caroline Nichols & Gail Jackson
Semester 2 Week1-4 Tuesday & Thursday10am-1pm; Wk5: Class test Tues 9:30am-1:30 pm and Thurs class
presentations Tues 9:30am-1:30 pm
The assessment comprises class test (60%) and problem based learning exercise (40%).
The central question of the course is "what are the current research issues in ecology?" This course would
aim to fill a niche by introducing the students to research level ecosystem and marine ecology, drawing from
the cutting edge research topics currently being explored within the Schools of Geosciences and Biological
sciences. Topics covered include (but are not restricted to) tropical rain forest ecology, modelling
biogeochemical cycles, arctic environmental change, biodiversity, atmospheric ozone and geoengineering.
This course is useful not only to equip those wishing to pursue a career in academia, but also those who seek
careers in the UK and overseas as environmental consultants, environmental regulators, conservation
organisations, within forestry industry and water companies and environmental policy advisors for
government agencies.
M. FUNDAMENTALS FOR REMOTE SENSING (PGGE11053)
Course Organiser and Team: Dr. Noel Gourmelen
Semester WeeK 7-11 Tuesday 2-5pm
Written Exam 60 %, Coursework 40 %.
This course introduces the principles lying behind remote sensing, concentrating on space-borne platforms.
The fundamentals of electro-magnetic (EM) radiation are explained, as are its interactions with Earth=s
surface and atmosphere. The course goes on to examine sensor characteristics, satellite orbits and various
current and future missions involving a range of sensors across the visible, radar and microwave components
of the spectrum. When dealing with images, the skills of image processing are used to extract meaning and
interpretation from the spatial relationships of data, and the basics of image processing are also taught. The
course includes a large number of examples of applications of remote sensing to environmental questions.
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Option Courses: Summary Table
SEMESTER OPTIONS
DAY/TIME
Fri 1330 – 1700
COURSE
ORGANISER
R Wilson
1
Land Use Policy
1
Principles of Geographical
Information Science
Thur 1410 – 1800
W MacKaness
Wk1-6
1
Fundamentals for Remote
Sensing
Thur 1410 – 1800
Dr. Gourmelen
Wk7-11
1
Land Use and Water
Resources
Thur 1410 – 1600 K Heal
1
Environmental
Geochemistry
2
Hydrogeology 2
Tues 1400 – 1700 C McDermott
2
Earth Surface processes
Tues 0900 - 1200 B Ngwenya
2
Marine systems and policy
Fri 0900-1245
M Wilson
2
Current Issues in Ecology
Tues & Thurs
1000-1300
G Jackson/C
Nichols
Fri 1110 – 1300
M Graham
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