ENVSC504-23B (HAM)

Pollution and Environmental Contaminants

15 Points

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The University of Waikato
Academic Divisions
Division of Health Engineering Computing & Science
School of Science
Environmental Science

Staff

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Convenor(s)

Nicholas Ling

Nicholas Ling
9374
R.2.09
See Moodle
nicholas.ling@waikato.ac.nz

Lecturer(s)

Joel Rindelaub

Joel Rindelaub
E.3.21
See Moodle
joel.rindelaub@waikato.ac.nz

Administrator(s)

: klaus.reiter@waikato.ac.nz

Placement/WIL Coordinator(s)

Tutor(s)

Student Representative(s)

Lab Technician(s)

Librarian(s)

: anne.ferrier-watson@waikato.ac.nz

You can contact staff by:

  • Calling +64 7 838 4466 select option 1, then enter the extension.
  • Extensions starting with 4, 5, 9 or 3 can also be direct dialled:
    • For extensions starting with 4: dial +64 7 838 extension.
    • For extensions starting with 5: dial +64 7 858 extension.
    • For extensions starting with 9: dial +64 7 837 extension.
    • For extensions starting with 3: dial +64 7 2620 + the last 3 digits of the extension e.g. 3123 = +64 7 262 0123.
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What this paper is about

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This paper will provide a practical and theoretical framework to evaluate the effects of chemical and nonchemical pollution on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Practical methods for ecological monitoring and analysis of data derived from online databases such as the USEPA ECOTOX database and ANZECC will provide students with skills in understanding and applying ecological thresholds and indicators of pollution. Examples of significant New Zealand sources of pollution and pollution events will be used to provide local context and relevance. Through independent analysis and review of the scientific literature and oral presentation, students will enhance their skills in critical evaluation of scientific information and their abilities to present a scientific argument to a lay audience.
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How this paper will be taught

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Seminars will be delivered both on campus and online via Zoom - Students can choose to attend in person or online but all students are expected to attend all seminars. Some content will be delivered by self-directed learning with support from the teaching staff. Seminar topics will comprise an
introduction to the subject followed by an examination of selected readings from the scientific literature.
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Required Readings

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Readings from selected scientific journals will be provided via the Moodle course page.
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Learning Outcomes

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Students who successfully complete the course should be able to:

  • Define critical terms and concepts in ecotoxicology
    Linked to the following assessments:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of how chemical structure and physico/chemical attributes contribute to compartmentalization of pollutants both in the environment and physiologically
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  • Demonstrate for a particular element how, and it what form, it achieves its toxicity and limits imposed as a result of toxicity and persistence in the environment
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  • Demonstrate written and oral competence in presenting scientific arguments and in reviewing scientific literature
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  • Describe and evaluate biological indicators of pollution
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  • Describe, discuss, apply and analyse tests and indices for pollution using a variety of organisms
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  • Differentiate the effects of pollutants at different levels of biological organisation
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  • Explain the concepts of bioaccumulation and biotransformation in organisms and ecosystems
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Assessments

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How you will be assessed

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The internal assessment/exam ratio (as stated in the University Calendar) is 100:0. There is no final exam. The final exam makes up 0% of the overall mark.

The internal assessment/exam ratio (as stated in the University Calendar) is 100:0 or 0:0, whichever is more favourable for the student. The final exam makes up either 0% or 0% of the overall mark.

Component DescriptionDue Date TimePercentage of overall markSubmission MethodCompulsory
1. Data analysis exercise 1 - dose response analysis
4 Aug 2023
11:30 PM
10
  • Online: Submit through Moodle
2. Data analysis exercise 2 - species sensitivity distribution
15
  • Online: Submit through Moodle
3. Oral presentation
15
  • In Class: In Workshop
4. Literature review 1
30
  • Online: Submit through Moodle
5. Literature review 2
20 Oct 2023
11:30 PM
30
  • Online: Submit through Moodle
Assessment Total:     100    
Failing to complete a compulsory assessment component of a paper will result in an IC grade
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