Course syllabus

Miljösystemanalys: Klimat som vetenskap och politik
Environmental System Studies: Climate, Science and Politics

FMIN05, 7,5 credits, A (Second Cycle)

Valid for: 2013/14
Decided by: Education Board C
Date of Decision: 2013-04-15

General Information

Main field: Technology.
Elective Compulsory for: I3
Elective for: F4, F4-es, Pi4, W4-es, W4-ms
Language of instruction: The course will be given in Swedish

Aim

The general aim of the course is to provide knowledge about the most important concepts in climate science and actors in the international climate debate and negotiations, to study climate issues from a systems analytical perspective where independent critical analysis of the interaction between science and policy is central.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
For a passing grade the student must

Competences and skills
For a passing grade the student must

Judgement and approach
For a passing grade the student must

Contents

The primary focus of the course is on the description and analysis of the connections and interactions between science and policy/politics.

Natural science and technological aspects such as radiation balance, coal balance, atmospheric science and meteorology, palaeoclimatology and climate modelling are reviewed. This includes greenhouse gases, warming potential, climate sensitivity, albedo, carbon sink, scenario and carbon storage.

Social science aspects include international relations and negotiations, climate politics and economy, including policy, burden sharing, cost-benefit analysis, technology transfer and policy instruments.

Examination details

Grading scale: TH
Assessment: A small written exam at mid-term; a minor project or book seminar is carried out in small groups (presented oraly and written). Participation in seminars is mandatory. A final written exam.

Admission

Admission requirements:

Required prior knowledge: Minimum 130 higher education credits within the programme.
The number of participants is limited to: No
The course overlaps following course/s: FMIN01

Reading list

Contact and other information

Course coordinator: Lars J Nilsson, lars.nilsson@miljo.lth.se
Course coordinator: André Månsson, andre.mansson@miljo.lth.se
Course homepage: http://www.miljo.lth.se
Further information: Re-examination is possible during examination periods.