Aims of the module
To enable students to identify and evaluate the patterns, processes and policies involved in global biodiversity conservation. To enable students to integrate biological, economic and political concepts.

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

(i) Identify patterns and use of biodiversity;

(ii) Explain causes of loss of biodiversity;

(iii) Identify and evaluate conservation policies;

(iv) Discuss approaches to valuing biodiversity.

Syllabus / Curriculum design
The lecture course considers the nature and extent of biodiversity from the level of genetic diversity to biomes. Approaches to determining the use and values of biodiversity entering into the fields of political ecology and ecological economics. Rates of biodiversity loss and the ecological implications in conjunction with the influential factors creating change are discussed. Techniques for conservation of plant, animal and genetic resources in-situ and ex-situ are considered. Attention is drawn to the processes of monitoring and review of the efficacy of implementation and enforcement of these approaches. Case studies are used to illustrate the function of economic incentives. International policies, treaties and systems for conserving biodiversity are critically appraised through seminars. The role of local communities in the conservation of global biodiversity is critically assessed.