An introduction to the role of environmental processes in shaping the patterns of the physical environment and the operation of global environmental systems. Topics include earth, atmosphere and biosphere systems, weather and climate, water resources, soils and land degradation, fluvial and coastal processes and landforms, biodiversity and Australian biotic patterns. A major theme of the course involves the sustainable interaction of humans with their environment and the causes of environmental crises. Instruction is given on practical methods involved in applied geography and environmental sciences including mapping, analysis of aerial photography, field techniques and remote sensing.

Note: Students are required to take part in a one-day field trip and students will incur personal costs. Details will be provided during the first week of the course.