Overview

This module comprises a survey of the inputs, behaviour and effects associated with waste disposal to coastal waters. It examines in detail the nature of pollution and how pollution damage is assessed by considering the main types of contaminants/pollutants, their sources, environmental behaviour and possible effects. e.g. nutrients, metals, oil, POPs, radioactivity. A detailed 'Catchment to Coast’ case study using the Conwy Estuary highlights the problems caused by nutrients, bacteria, viruses and toxins and considers the implications for management of water quality. The physical processes which aid in dispersion of waste are considered with the use of models for practical application.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Equivalent to 40% Pass mark (D-)Basic appreciation of contaminant/pollutant inputs and effects in coastal waters and implications for water quality. Basic understanding of the dispersion of contaminants/pollutants in coastal waters. Basic ability to manage your own learning and to make use of the referred research articles. Attendance at practical sessions.

-good -Equivalent to 60-70% (B range)Able to appreciate contaminant/pollutant inputs and effects in coastal waters and implications for water quality. Understanding of the dispersion of contaminants/pollutants in coastal waters. Demonstrate management of own learning and use of referred research articles. Attendance at practical sessions and perform practical work and analysis of data in a competent manner.

-excellent -Equivalent to >70% (A range)Considerable appreciation of contaminant/pollutant inputs and effects in coastal waters and implications for water quality. Thorough understanding of the dispersion of contaminants/pollutants in coastal waters. Thorough demonstration of ability to manage your own learning and to make use of referred research articles. Attendance at practical sessions and carry out experimental work carefully in an enquiring manner - performing additional experiments/tests to answer questions raised.

Learning Outcomes

• Be able to demonstrate an awareness of how water quality is controlled by a regulatory framework

• Be able to demonstrate an understand and critically appraise the particular problems caused by nutrients, bacteria, viruses and toxins in coastal waters

• Be able to demonstrate an understanding of, and critically appraise, the inputs, behaviour and effects associated with waste disposal to coastal waters

• Be able to make accurate and precise chemical measurements, be able to interpret and discuss data and write a scientific report.

• Be able to manage your own learning and to make use of referred research articles.

• Be able to successfully model contaminant/pollution dispersion in coastal waters.