For any professional who will work in the area of environmental management it is essential to understand the relationship between economic development and its impact on the natural environment. Sustainability is accepted now as a necessary concept in almost all human activity and a clear understanding of this is required by anyone who works in industry, consultancy or government institutions with a degree in environmental science. This module examines the evolution and contemporary application of the concept of environmental management. Students will be clear on the barriers to more effective environmental management and the different pathways to a more sustainable future by understanding the interaction between environment, society, industry and governance.

An understanding of the nature and significance of local, national and global environmental issues and challenges, and their historical background. A grounding in the main elements of recognised environmental management systems (ISO 14001) and the issues involved. An understanding of the concept of sustainable development and its importance. The specific UN SDGs addressed in this module are Goal 3-Good Health and Well-Being, Goal 10-Reduced Inequalities, Goal 11-Sustainable Cities and Communities, Goal 12- Responsible Consumption and Production, Goal 13-Climate Action.

On successful completion of this module graduates will be able to: • Describe how environmental policy is generated (EU). • Explain the need for taking a holistic approach to environmental management. • Analyse why corporate business often takes the lead in environmental protection. • Evaluate the role of corporate social responsibility in environmental management. • Explain the steps in selecting the best EMS; and the documentation required for ISO 14001. • Identify the benefits and disadvantages of implementing formal EMSs to companies (large to SME). • Evaluate the current success of environmental management initiatives using case studies from up to date reading. • Know what the UN Sustainable Development Goals are and be able to evaluate progress to date. • Be able to identify useful, reliable and relevant information sources.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to recognise and appreciate the issues involved in environmental management and the often competing position of all relevant stakeholders.

On successful completion of this module, students will have 1. developed skills for formal presentations on a relevant topic. 2. developed technical report writing skills. 3. Identified and evaluated relevant and reliable sources of information.

The learning outcomes are adhered to in lectures and there is a very strong focus on sustainability. Research objectives and outcomes can develop significantly over very short timeframes; therefore, novel and emerging policies and actions are described for government and other agencies. Within a very dynamic situation, care is taken to ensure lectures and readings provide up to date information. Students are provided with guidance on the structure of the module, key concepts, technical terms and selected key information sources, together with a full explanation of the assessment instruments adopted. Timetabled classes provide additional insights into previous actions taken to enhance sustainability and a guide to current research in policy and practice. Class time also includes discussion and an opportunity for students to debate issues of interest and relevance. The teaching methods in environmental management ensure that the desired attributes of University of Limerick students are fostered. In particular, students will be knowledgeable, articulate, proactive, responsible and creative in environmental management in institutions and sustainability after completing this module.