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Ecosystems in a Changing Climate (FRST90032)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville) and On Campus (Creswick)
Overview
Availability(Quotas apply) | Semester 2 - On Campus September - On Campus |
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Fees | Look up fees |
This subject will investigate the role of terrestrial ecosystems in the global carbon cycle and in a changing climate. Students will learn the scientific basis for climate change and the impact that a changing climate might have on terrestrial ecosystems and how ecosystems influence climate. We will learn what adaptation actions we can take to manage ecosystems in a changing climate. We will discuss the role ecosystems play in the global carbon cycle and the degree to which terrestrial ecosystems can be used as a carbon sequestration options. We will evaluate the requirements for forest carbon accounting and will apply carbon accounting tools in hands-on accounting sessions with industry partners. This scientific understanding will be extended to discuss policy instruments under consideration in Australia and in the international arena for the potential role of ecosystems in carbon emissions trading. The subject will equip students with state-of-the-art knowledge on the impact of climate change on forest ecosystems and with practical experiences in forest carbon accounting.
Intended learning outcomes
Upon completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of the international and national context of climate change science relating to ecosystems;
- Analyse the response of forests to changing climate; and
- Identify and develop the appropriate management options that leads to adaptation of ecosystem in future climates
- Critically analyse the role of ecosystems in climate change mitigation options
Generic skills
In addition to learning specific skills that will assist students in their future careers in science, they will have the opportunity to develop generic skills that will assist them in any future career path. These include:
- Problem-solving skills: the ability to engage with unfamiliar problems and identify relevant solution strategies;
- Analytical skills: the ability to construct and express logical arguments and to work in abstract or general terms to increase the clarity and efficiency of analysis;
- Time-management skills: the ability to meet regular deadlines while balancing competing commitments
Last updated: 16 August 2024