ES 161 Intro to Environmental Science

The Earth is a dynamic system that supports all life. The flow of energy and cycling of matter through the geosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere provide us with air, water and food, and with resources to support economic development. Environmental problems such as air and water pollution, soil degradation and erosion, and loss of biodiversity threaten our ability to sustain the growing human population. This course develops scientific understanding of Earth systems, examines the impacts of human activities, and describes the role of scientific knowledge and research in meeting environmental and resource challenges.