Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Marine Pollution
Code ENVS232
Coordinator Dr P Salaun
Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences
Pascal.Salaun@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2022-23 Level 5 FHEQ Second Semester 15

Aims

This module aims to introduce students to the main anthropogenic stressors, their effects and importance on the marine system. It also aims to train students in literature search and reading of scientific papers as well as enhancing their communication and team work skills.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) An understanding of the main anthropogenic stressors of the marine system, their causes, functioning, effects and their remediation/regulation

(LO2) An awareness of current problems (news + scientific papers)

(LO3) To enhance communication skills

(LO4) To learn how to use Web of Science

(S1) Communication skills

(S2) International awareness


Syllabus

 

Please note that this syllabus may slightly change.

Introduction to Marine Pollution and Challenges in a changing world

Eutrophication of coastal waters

a. Causes, mechanisms and occurrence;
b. Case studies: Gulf of Mexico and Baltic sea;
c. Oxygen Minimum Zones
d. Effects on ecosystems.
e: Waste water treatment plant: how does it work?

Marine Debris and Plastic pollution

Harmful Algal Blooms

Estuarine Pollution

Persistent Organic Pollutants (pesticides)

Trace metals

Oil Pollution

Marine Heatwaves

Ecotoxicology

Noise Pollution

Emerging threats (e.g. nanomaterials, personal care products)

Marine Legislation


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Weekly lectures will be given which will often be associated with a selected set of research papers recommended as reading list.

Peer learning will be promoted through the assessment strategy with group videos and posters (individual task).

Group presentations: in group of 3 to 4 students, each group will present produce a video about a specific marine problem inspired by recent news headlines. Videos will be made accessible to all students and a Q&A session will be organised for each group to answer questions from the audience (staff and fellow students).

Posters: Each student will design a poster about a specific topic relevant to the marine pollution module; each student will present the poster to the cohort in a conference-like set up where discussions with staff and fellow students is promoted.

Self-directed learning: reading through research papers and books is advised. Some research papers will be suggested as part of each lectures but additional r eading is also recommended.


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 18

        11

4

2

35
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 115
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Final exam There is a resit opportunity. This is an anonymous assessment.  120    45       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Poster assessment There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment.    25       
Group presentation In small groups, the task is to design a presentation around a marine problem that has been recently highlighted in the news. There is a resit opportunity. This is not an anonymo    30       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.