Science and Engineering at The University of Edinburgh

Human activities have become a significant factor affecting the functioning of the Earth system. Our use of natural resources has increased more than ten-fold over the last 200 years, and future growth will increase the pressures on the system. Deforestation and soil erosion, the release of potentially toxic elements and chemical compounds to surface and ground waters, pathogen contamination of waters and the increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, are all examples of such pressures. The effects on the biosphere are of particular concern, because they have potentially serious consequences for humanity and other life on Earth.

There is a requirement for well-trained postgraduates who can combine adequate understanding of the processes which give rise to environmental degradation and pollution problems with capability in management of natural resources, and who can thus play a vital role in devising and enacting strategies to protect and conserve the environment, both in Europe and beyond.

- Dr Bob Rees, Programme Director

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