The module is interdisciplinary in nature, drawing on ecological and social perspectives to explore a wide field of ideas (e.g. environmental science, political ecology, environmental sociology, environmental philosophies and ecological economics and the study of hazards and risks). Environmental issues represent challenge across spatial and temporal scales, from the individual and their 'lifeworld' to the global commons. They are 'cultural constructs', the product of complex interactions between earth ecosystems and the political, social and economic characteristics of human communities, embedded and dependent upon within these ecosystems. Attention is thus paid to changing attitudes to the environment, and the underlying philosophies that these characterise. The contemporary role of the media and public communication in shaping and framing what is an environmental issue is also considered. Issues covered may include food and energy security, biodiversity and water stress, global warming and climatic transformation. There are challenges and opportunities presented by the emergence of new forms of communication and generational shifts in news consumption. It is important that these are understood by those seeking to influence environmental behaviour.

Assessment 1: (80%) An individual environmental issues report in the style of a POSTNOTE (Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology Briefing note) Maximum length 2000 words. 1 x written environmental issues report exploring an environmental issue of concern: its characteristics, impact and mitigation. The report will be written in the style of a POSTNOTE (Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology Briefing note for MPs). Students will choose a topic from a given list of current topics. (LOs, 1, 2, 4, 5).

Assessment 2: Oral presentation of the postnote (20%) of the marks will be derived from a 10-minute oral presentation of the key issues described in the POSTNOTE. (LOs 3, 5).

Formative feedback will be offered on for draft submissions of both the POSTNOTE and the presentation.

The module will be delivered through a combination of:
(a) Classes that will combine, on a flexible basis, lectures with workshop exercises and be used to introduce theoretical concepts and to explore case studies;
(b) independent learning through guided reading from core texts and the use of web-based materials to develop a detailed knowledge of selected at UK, European and global scales;
(c) Assessment Preparation for planning, researching and writing.

Module Learning Outcome
1. Demonstrate a systematic and critical understanding of the key concepts and principles underpinning the social construction perspective of the module.

University Learning Outcome
Knowledge & Understanding; Enquiry

Module Learning Outcome
2. Evaluate the “wicked” nature of many contemporary environmental issues and the role that the media play in presenting these topics to the public.

University Learning Outcome
Knowledge & Understanding; Enquiry

Module Learning Outcome
3. Review how modern media both shapes understanding of and contributes to the contested nature of contemporary environmental issues.

University Learning Outcome
Application

Module Learning Outcome
4. Critically evaluate the array of factors which interact to create and frame environmental issues.

University Learning Outcome
Analysis, Enquiry

Module Learning Outcome
5. Communicate environmental issues clearly to a range of expert and non-expert audiences using a variety of means (written and oral).

University Learning Outcome
Communication, Reflection

High quality teaching space with usual audio-visual facilities.
Library resources both physical and online.

Brown, Lester, R. (2015) The Great Transition: Shifting from Fossil Fuels to Solar and Wind Energy. W.W Norton: London.
Buckingham, Susan and Turner Mike (2008) Understanding Environmental Issues. London, Sage.
Coolsaet, B (Ed.) (2021) Environmental Justice: Key Issues. Abingdon: Earthscan (Routledge).
Hansen, A. (2018) Environment, Media and Communication (2nd edition). London: Routledge.

PLUS ¿ up to date journal papers set as reading each week.

None

Our planet is under increasing pressure from climate changes, social-economic upheaval, disease, pollution and resource scarcity. We hear about these issues every day but how do we know the truth? Who is making the argument? Why are they making that argument? How can we critically assess both the nature of the threats we face or the benefits of the proposed solutions? This module will challenge you to think deeply about environmental issues and how to communicate them to different audiences. You will develop skills in critical thinking in order to develop as a “Global Citizen”.