Water is vital to all life on this planet,\r\nand possibly elsewhere given its unique properties. Its fundamental importance\r\nhas recently been emphasized by the landing on Mars of the explorer Curiosity\r\nand its search for water and hence life on another planet. From the human\r\nperspective increasing population, agricultural and economic demands mean that\r\nwater availability has become a limiting factor in many aspects of our\r\ndevelopment.
\r\n\r\nThis course aims to\r\ngive students an understanding of the diversity of water resources in the\r\nnatural environment and how water quality is affected by human activities. The need\r\nfor a range of management strategies is emphasized and particular attention is\r\ngiven to two key aspects of water usage ? provision of drinking water and\r\nsanitation. Challenges associated with sanitation will be considered from both\r\nglobal and local aspects, and the concept of wastewater sludge as a potential\r\nsource of energy will also be developed.
\r\n\r\nIn addition to lectures\r\nand recommended reading material, students will also have field work and carry\r\nout a written assignment as part of the learning process. Tutorial time will give students the opportunity\r\nto discuss aspects of the course and to make presentations on the freshwater\r\nsituation in their home countries.
- Instructors: Dan Cogalniceanu, Zoltan Illes