Geography

Geographies of the Living Earth

Module code: 019GRS
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Workshop
Assessment modes: Report, Coursework

What factors influence where plants and animals occur, and how have these drivers changed through time? How is the functioning of ecosystems influenced by historical and environmental processes?

This module explores the patterns and processes behind the distribution of biological diversity on the Earth. We examine key biogeographical principles from a temporal and spatial perspective. It also determines how climate change and human actions have impacted our planet's landscapes and biota.

We will use a range of techniques to understand how contemporary threats to biodiversity, ecosystem services and sustainable livelihoods will influence future conservation and environmental management strategies.

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of biogeographical principles and the underlying geological, ecological and environmental processes that influence the distribution of species on Earth
• Understand how different biogeographical methods and techniques, such as remote sensing, palaeoecology and species distribution modelling, can be used to analyse and interpret biogeographical data and patterns.
• Assess and discuss the significance of biodiversity conservation, identify threatened areas, species, and ecosystems, and propose effective conservation strategies based on biogeographical principles.
• Evaluate the impact of human activities, such as habitat destruction, invasive species and climate change, on local and global ecosystems