Learning outcome

After completing the course, the students should have the following qualifications regarding knowledge, skills, and general competence:

• Knowledge of the main features in the structure, composition, general circulation system and energy budget of the atmosphere
• Knowledge of how human activities influence the composition and energy budget of the atmosphere, and thereby cause the global environmental problems connected to acid rain, reduced ozone concentration in the stratosphere, increased ozone concentration in the boundary layer and increased greenhouse effect
• Updated knowledge on strategies for solving these problems
• Understanding of central theories concerning these global environmental problems
• Ability to update their knowledge of these environmental problems
• Ability to reflect on different strategies for handling these problems
• Ability to judge critically the treatment of the environmental problems in the mass media
• Knowledge of ethical questions connected to pollution

Course Description

The course gives general knowledge of the climate system and of climate variation in the past and their probable causes. Further, it gives updated knowledge on anthropogenic influence of the composition of the atmosphere and the global energy budget. Problems connected to increased greenhouse effect, tropospheric ozone, depletion of stratospheric ozone and acid rain are central. Different factors leading to these problems are discussed, including industrial production, production and consumption of energy, agriculture, deforestation and population growth. Possible consequences of the problems for man and natural environments, including freshwater resources, are included. Ethical questions connected to the problems are also discussed. Examples of technical solutions are given that may reduce the problems, focusing on energy production and energy consumption. An updated status is given concerning existing national and international frameworks aiming to reduce the problems. The current status concerning basic knowledge, technical solutions as well as concerning national and international agreements is updated every regularly.

Teaching and Learning Methods

Self-directed study. Some voluntary assemlies.

More exercises and examples are available in Fronter.

Assessment Methods

Grade is determind based on a written exam (5 hours) in December.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean