Environmental Assessment module (UP52002)

​​Environmental policy and assessment tools shape planning decisions at every level, from individual development proposals to national strategies. This module gives you an advanced understanding of how EIA and SEA operate within the UK and Scottish planning system. 

​You'll examine the evolution of EU environmental policy and its application to UK and Scottish law, studying how climate change adaptation and mitigation are addressed through spatial planning. You'll also develop skills in applying Environmental Management Plans and planning conditions as tools for managing sustainability. 

​Practical workshop sessions support your learning, giving you the chance to apply assessment methods to case studies drawn from current planning practice. 

​What you will learn 

​In this module, you will: 

• ​Understand the policy context and develop competence in applying environmental assessment instruments within UK and Scottish spatial planning 
• ​Develop a critical understanding of the legislative obligations placed on public policy makers around environmental assessment 
• ​Examine how EIA and SEA tools are applied to shape development proposals, policies, plans, and programmes 

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

• ​Demonstrate critical awareness of climate change and pressures on the natural environment, and evaluate tools for monitoring impacts and change 
• ​Critically understand EU and UK environmental policy in the context of global climate change, and the role of EIA and SEA Directives in Scottish planning legislation 
• ​Apply EIA and SEA to the planning process, including setting planning conditions and using Environmental Management Plans 
• ​Conduct text-based research and data collection for environmental impact and sustainability appraisal 
• ​Write professional reports and work effectively in teams 
• ​Apply referencing skills to academic and professional work​

Assignments / assessments

​​Coursework (100%) 

• This will consist of an individual report 

​This module does not have a final exam.​

Teaching methods / timetable

• ​​Lectures 
• ​Practical surgery workshops 
• ​Support materials​ in My Dundee