GE90143: Environmental Issues and Solutions

The module GE90142: Environmental Concepts, Issues and Management is designed to provide Master of Geography and Environment students with advanced knowledge and analytical skills in understanding key environmental concepts, challenges, and sustainable management approaches. The module introduces fundamental environmental ideas, including the definition and types of environment, environmental science, ecosystem dynamics, and sustainability principles, with a strong emphasis on the interrelationships between human activities and natural systems.

It further explores major environmental issues such as pollution, resource degradation, and ecosystem imbalance, focusing on critical natural resources including water, land, air, energy, minerals, fauna, and flora. Students will examine strategies for environmental conservation, restoration, sustainable waste management, and environmental impact assessment as key tools for promoting sustainable development.

In addition, the module highlights the role of environmental education in fostering awareness, advocacy, and community participation in environmental protection. Practical applications focus on analysing Rwanda’s environmental policies, identifying local environmental challenges such as deforestation and pollution, and developing context-specific solutions. Students will also engage in environmental impact assessments, develop sustainability guidelines for projects, and design community-based initiatives such as eco-school gardens, all aimed at strengthening environmental stewardship and contributing to sustainable development.