Life Sciences

Conservation in Practice

Module code: C1113
Level 6
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Fieldwork, Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework, Essay

You’ll consider how activism and government policy impact on conservation, with a focus on practical conservation. You’ll look at how conventions on biodiversity and conservation opreate, as well as the ethical side of conservation. You’ll also consider what species or taxa we should prioritise and why.

The issue of environmental justice is linked to these topics. You’ll hear from guest speakers from conversation organisations, giving you valuable insight into career planning.

You’ll also go on field trips to conservation projects, getting a hands-on experience of real-life conservation strategies. Destinations are likely to include Castle Hill and Rye Harbour Nature Reserves, Gatwick Biodiversity Project and Knepp Rewilding Project.

Module learning outcomes

• Critically evaluate the management strategies implemented to conserve 1) a range of Western European habitats and 2) specific taxonomic groups.
• Critically evaluate the role of legislation in conservation and how key UK conservation organisations (governmental and non-governmental) achieve their goals.
• Devise a conservation project that could contribute towards biodiversity conservation and satisfy targets of ethical and international conventions on biodiversity.
• Appreciate the many employment and career opportunities offered by the diverse organisations operating in the conservation sector.