Advanced Environmental Assessments module (UP41004)

Develop a critical understanding of environmental assessment law and practice. You'll examine EIA and SEAs and apply these tools to real development proposals and planning decisions

Credits

Module code

UP41004

Level

Semester

Semester 1

School

Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design

Discipline

Architecture and Urban Planning

Responsible development depends on understanding how environmental assessment works in practice. This module gives you a critical grounding in the legal obligations placed on planners and policy makers, with a focus on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA).

You'll examine the theories and principles that underpin environmental assessment, the procedures used to carry it out, and the factors that affect its effectiveness. Real-world case studies bring the regulatory context to life, and you'll develop skills in working with stakeholders from a range of professional backgrounds.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

Develop a critical understanding of environmental assessment theories, principles, and practices
Examine the legislative frameworks governing Environmental Impact Assessment and Strategic Environmental Assessment
Understand the procedures, application techniques, and methods used in environmental assessment
Explore the factors that affect EA effectiveness, including the roles of different stakeholders

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

Demonstrate a critical understanding of environmental assessment theories and practices
Understand the analytical basis of environmental assessment techniques
Show how EA tools influence decision-making processes
Apply basic EA procedures, methods, and techniques, including Multi-Criteria Analysis
Interpret key regulatory obligations for different stakeholders
Interpret and use environmental assessment outputs appropriately
Engage effectively with stakeholders from diverse professional backgrounds
Work in teams to produce well-considered professional reports
Make professional presentations using a variety of communication techniques