This module discusses physical characteristics of, social effects of, and management responses to environmental hazards such as severe storms, volcanic eruptions, mass movements, earthquakes, forest fires and flooding. A variety of aspects of hazards will be discussed including predisposing factors, thresholds and triggering mechanisms, physical processes, prediction and probability theory of events; hazard characterisation (speed of onset, timing, frequency, duration, magnitude, scale); impacts; monitoring, evaluation; risk assessment of hazards; hazard responses, social vulnerability, resilience, risk education and risk communication and the role of political, economic and social factors in determining the degree of risk. The role of climate change will be prominent in examining the nature of events and societal responses. These concepts will be developed and illustrated through a range of case studies taken from different hazards.

1. 1500-word coursework essay from a choice of titles (Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3 & 5).
2. Workshop portfolio, consisting of completed workshop handouts (Learning Outcomes 2, 4 & 5).

The module will incorporate formative assessment opportunities via structured activities in class to enable you to discuss key ideas related to the assessments. Specific guidance will be provided on both assignments with opportunities for you to discuss your ideas.

Five workshops will focus on the factors contributing to escalating damage and loss of life from environmental hazards. They will involve reading, discussing and responding to material provided (e.g., video, article, set of questions) relating to specific hazards (e.g., hurricanes, landslides, earthquakes) and their management. Workshop activities will take place in class with opportunity for discussion; you will be given time after the workshops to complete the short workshop handouts which form the portfolio.

The module will be delivered through a combination of:
(a) Lecture-based and discussion sessions outlining key thematic content;
(b) Structured workshop sessions based on a series of case studies, which apply and develop key principles; these will involve the discussion, analysis and interpretation of text and audio-visual materials and permit students to self-evaluate their understanding of module materials;
(c) Independent learning through directed reading and assessment.

Module Learning Outcome
1. Understand the nature of environmental hazards in the context of climate change and society.

University Learning Outcome
Knowledge and Understanding

Module Learning Outcome
2. Identify and understand data collection techniques and approaches for evaluating and managing environmental hazards.

University Learning Outcome
Application Knowledge and Understanding

Module Learning Outcome
3. Critically evaluate material from a range of sources to develop and support a coherent written argument.

University Learning Outcome
Enquiry Application

Module Learning Outcome
4. Critically analyse and address questions related to environmental hazards and their management.

University Learning Outcome
Analysis Application

Module Learning Outcome
5. Clearly express and communicate knowledge of environmental hazards and their management.

University Learning Outcome
Communication

University Library, internet and email facilities, Blackboard or equivalent VLE, Microsoft Teams.

Smith, K. 2013. Environmental Hazards: Assessing Risk and Reducing Disaster (6th edition). Routledge. (MAIN TEXT)
Bosher, L. and Chmutina, K. 2017. Disaster Risk Reduction for the Built Environment. Wiley Blackwell. Wamsler, C. 2014. Cities, Disaster Risk and Adaptation. Routledge.
Wisner, B., Blaikie, P., Cannon, T. and Davies, I. 2004. At Risk: Natural Hazards, People’s Vulnerability and Disasters (2nd Edition). Routledge.

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Do you want to know more about our hazardous world? Environmental hazards such as severe storms, floods, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and wildfires are frequently reported in the media and they often create disasters, with which society has to cope. This module explores the causes, processes and impacts of environmental hazards, particularly focusing on the role of climate change in the evolution of hazard processes and in the effects of those processes on society. These issues are explored in detail through a range of examples as we consider how we might develop effective responses to the ongoing threat of environmental hazards.