Ecology and Conservation, BSc - 2016/17

From the abyssal depths of the oceans, to the snow covered Himalayas, the staggering biodiversity of this amazing planet is still providing us with wonderful new surprises. The fabulous wildlife of the Earth is intricately linked through adaptation and evolution, with the global systems of ocean currents, prevailing winds and the movement of continents. Deeper understanding of these remarkable relationships is essential if we are to overcome increasing concerns about global environmental change and loss of biodiversity. The focus of attention is turning to the consequences this may have for the vulnerability of the biosphere and the economic implications for mankind. Increasing human populations and their influence on the loss and degradation of important ecosystems are issues that affect us all. In its role as global leader of science-based environmental policy, the United Nations Environmental programme ‘continues to attach great importance to universities that will educate environmentalists of the future as well as serve as the pool for the intellectual capital needed to address the concerns of climate change and growing environmental degradation.’ (Press release, November 2010). This programme is designed to equip students for working in local and international ecological and conservation roles by providing a stimulating and challenging programme that encompasses the biosciences, biogeography and land management.