Chemistry and the environment [SCHIM229]

Learning outcomes

General description of current environmental problems and thoughts on short- and medium-term solutions. Development of a holistic vision of the impact of human activity on the environment.

Objectives

Complement students' basic scientific training and raise their awareness of current environmental issues.

Content

Historically, chemists have not always paid sufficient attention to the environmental consequences of their activities. With the technological advances that have resulted from chemistry, large quantities of toxic and corrosive substances have been produced and dispersed into the environment. However, the chemical industry is not solely responsible for this situation. The increase in population and wealth since the industrial revolution has overloaded the atmosphere with carbon dioxide and toxic air pollutants, our water heritage with waste water and our soil with rubbish, and we are exceeding the planet's natural capacity to cope with this waste. This course aims to raise awareness of all these issues.

Table of contents

I. Atmospheric chemistry and air pollution

II. The energy challenge and climate change

III. Water chemistry and various forms of pollution

IV. TOXIC ORGANIC COMPOUNDS Toxic organic compounds

V. Environment and condensed phases