Aims of the module
To describe the types and effects of the major water/land pollutants in the UK environment, and evaluate the impact of specific agricultural practices on aquatic and terrestrial habitats. To analyse and evaluate the methods of pollution management and conrtrol at local and regional levels.

Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, students will be able to:

i) describe the types and extent of water/land pollutants in the UK;

ii) outline the process(es) causing the pollutant(s) problem;

iii) evaluate the ecological impact of the pollutant(s) in UK aquatic and terrestrial environments;

iv) evaluate the impact of specific agricultural practices on habitats;

v) describe the methods available for waste management and waste treatment;

vi) outline the options and methods available for farm waste management;

vii) explain the types of pollution control measures used in the UK (advisory, economic,legislative framework, EC directives,
international pollution control agreements).

Syllabus / Curriculum design
The lecture course will cover aspects of water/land pollution, including eutrophication and the nitrate problem in agriculture; effects of organic matter with emphasis on agricultural wastes; heavy metal contamination; pesticides; leachates from contaminated land; types of pollution control measures; introduction to environmnetal law UK/EC pollution legislation; waste management options and targets; domestic waste treatment; agricultural waste management. Visits and practicals will highlight local examples of the control of organic matter pollutants, and the assessment of biological indicators of pollutants in aquatic habitats.