Environmental Biogeochemistry
Course period spring term, period 1 part A: for correct dates see https://www.su.se/english/education/student-support/term-dates
Biogeochemical cycles of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and other elements are fundamental for life on Earth. These biogeochemical cycles have been altered by human activities, resulting in environmental challenges such as global warming and eutrophication. Fundamental understanding of the biogeochemical cycles, and how they are coupled, is vital in order to both understand and mitigate the consequences of human perturbations. We will in this course explore different biogeochemical cycles, focusing on local to regional terrestrial and aquatic systems, and discuss how they interact and are linked to human activities.
Topics included
- Biogeochemical processes in soil, inland waters, coastal ocean, sediments and lower atmosphere
- Interaction between biogeochemical cycles of several elements, and their seasonal and regional variation.
- Key anthropogenic environmental perturbations and their interactions with regional biogeochemical cycles
- Effects of natural processes and perturbations on the fate and bioavailability of pollutants
- Role of biogeochemistry in environmental management concepts and tools, e.g. ecosystem services and the EU Water Framework Directive.
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Course structure
Teaching format
The knowledge base provided through this course will be communicated both in lectures and in seminars where the students take an active role in e.g. scientific literature review and classroom discussions. We will also make a study visit to local governmental organization or to the private sector to exemplify the role biogeochemistry has in environmental management concepts and tools. Participation in seminars and study visit is compulsory. The lectures and seminars will primarily be led by researchers from Stockholm University.
Assessment
Assessment takes place through a written exam.
Rights and responsibilities
Your rights and responsibilities as a studentExaminer
Sofi Jonsson
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Schedule
The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course.Course period spring term, period 1 part A: for correct dates see https://www.su.se/english/education/student-support/term-dates
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Course literature
Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course.
Recommended book chapters (available through SU-library) and scientific literature will be provided during the course. Most book chapters used will come from Biogeochemistry – An analysis of Global Change (3rd addition, Schlesinger and Bernhardt). This book is available online (https://www.elsevier.com/books/biogeochemistry/schlesinger/978-0-12-385874-0) and there is also a few written copies available to borrow at the library (we will primarily work with chapter 5-8).
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Course reports
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Contact
Student counsellor
