This module will provide an understanding of the ways in which environmental impacts can be monitored and measured, together with a study of environmental audit procedures and processes. It will include an introduction to some of the tools of analysis that are used for evaluating environmental and societal impact such as life cycle analysis; ecofootprinting, environmental impact assessment; ecodesign; strategic environmental assessment; sustainability appraisal. Furthermore it will provide an introduction to corporate environmental/ sustainability reporting.

An EXAM length 1 HOUR weighted at 40% A PORTFOLIO weighted at 60%.

1 x 1 hour test of short questions .(LOs 1,2,5)

Coursework A portfolio of five articles- each associated with a chosen tool of analysis, and a commentary relating one tool to a particular workplace/placement situation.(LOs 3,4,5)

Students will be provided with formative assessment within tutorials and throughout the module in terms of reviewing portfolio assignment plans, questioning, discussion, group work.

For Foundation Degree students, the module will be delivered through a combination of :
1A) Pattern A (2 year accelerated part-time route): 2 days intensive workshops (14 hours) plus 10 week period of follow-up study of distance learning VLE activities (10 hours) plus guided work-based learning and academic enquiry.
OR
1B) Pattern B (3 year part-time mode): An introductory face-to-face workshop of 2 hours followed-up with 10 weekly 2 hour VLE based learning activities that will combine on a flexible basis, online group discussions, and formative exercises. Plus two 1 hour formative tutoring guidance sessions.

2) Directed independent learning (56 hours) through observation in the workplace and guided reading from core texts and internet materials delivered via Blackboard about organisational activities, their impacts and the role of environmental management.35 hours for preparing for and carrying out the exam, 35 hours for completing the portfolio.

For BSc (Hons) Environment and Sustainability students, this module will be delivered through a combination of:-

1) 2 days intensive workshops (14 hours) plus 10 week period of follow-up study of distance learning VLE activities (10 hours) plus guided work-based learning and academic enquiry.
2) Directed independent learning:
Through observation, research and guided reading from core texts and internet materials delivered by Blackboard about organisation activities, their impacts and the role of environmental management (56 hours); preparing for and sitting the exam (35 hours); planning and producing the portfolio (35 hours).

Epstein, M.J. et al (2008) Making Sustainability Work: Best Practices in Managing and Measuring Corporate Social, Environmental and Economic Impacts. Greenleaf Publishing
Blackburn, W.R.(2007) The Sustainability Handbook: The Complete Management Guide to achieving Social, Economic and Environmental Responsibility. Earthscan, London.,
Barrow, C.J.(2006) Environmental Management for Sustainable Development. Routledge, London
Fischer, T.B. (2008) Theory & Practice of Strategic Environmental Assessment. Towards a more systematic approach. Earthscan
Croner's Environmental Management - Policy and Procedures : CD-ROM. Croner Publications Limited.

Teaching room with PC, LCP, Internet access. Access to Learning Resource Centre. Access to suitable workplace for investigation, although the College may be used for this.