Course Overview
This course will introduce students to environmental science as an interdisciplinary field connecting information and ideas from all fields of science: chemistry, biology, ecology, geology, physics, politics, ethics, philosophy and economics. It includes the study of earth, air, water and living environments, and the effects of technology (humans) upon them. Sustainability will be introduced and discussed in relation to population growth, resource use, nutrient cycling and pollution of the natural world. The course examines in detail the major air, water, sediment and soil contaminants including measurement techniques and control methods. Adaption and mitigation strategies for global climate change will be discussed.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
3.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Explain the fundamental concepts of environmental science based on the ecosystem approach and environmental connectivity.
- Demonstrate knowledge of environmental chemistry of major contaminants, measurement techniques and control measures.
- Explain chemical cycles of chemical elements such as: carbon, sulphur, nitrogen and phosphorous, as well as their compounds, through the Earth's system: atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere and biosphere.
- Identify major layers and physical and chemical properties of the atmosphere relevant to applied meteorology and climatology.
- State the principles of sustainability and discuss environmental issues as they relate to environmental, economic and social values.
- Discuss human population growth and human activities with respect to resource management and energy conservation.
- Perform with confidence air, water, sediment and soil sampling according to standard methods and field safety procedures.
- Discuss adaption and mitigation strategies for the impacts of global climate change.
- Describe Indigenous land management practices and stewardship, and their role in promoting biodiversity conservation, environmental protection, and sustainability.
Effective as of Fall 2026
Related Programs
Environmental Science (CENV 1119) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
School of Energy
- Chemical and Environmental Engineering Technology
Diploma Full-time
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.