The module ‘Managing impact of production on the environment' aims at providing knowledge and skills regarding the concept of planetary boundaries and of the Anthropocene. Classes will discuss ecology as tool for understand the system Earth and the interconnections among different subsystems (Lithosphere, Atmosphere, Biosphere, Hydrosphere and Anthroposphere).
Case studies will be analysed and discussed during sessions common to the other two modules to provide the necessary interdisciplinary understanding of the topics covered in the course.

Objectives

The module will focus on the close interconnections between the various components of the Earth system and on how human activities can alter its dynamics.
Students are invited to consult the syllabus of the entire course for details regarding learning and skill-related objectives.

Knowledge and Understanding (Dublin Descriptor 1)
At the end of the course, the student understands:
• definition of the Anthropocene;
• definition and properties of systems and socio-ecological systems;
• understand the concept of planetary boundary;
• understand the concept of tipping point;
• understand the concept of Holling cycle;
• understand the concept of "Environmental surprise";
• human alteration of biogeochemical cycles;
• ecological footprint;
• ecosystem services.
Furthermore, students acquire, review, and strengthen their knowledge regarding:
• the interconnected environmental-ecnomical-social-ethical environment complexity;
• how the resource improper use influences the Earth systems;
• the resources distributions between different environmental compartments;

Applied Knowledge and Understanding (Dublin Descriptor 2)
At the end of the course, the student will be able to:
• discuss about the concept of the Anthropocene;
• discuss about the sustainability;
• evaluate the ecological footprint for individual or nation level;
• list the planetary boundaries.

Making Judgements (Dublin Descriptor 3)
At the end of the course, the student will be able to:
• identify which resources are the most critical ones and will be the most critical ones;
• identify the impact of externalities om the environment and humans;
• identify strategies for minimizing socio-economical-environmental negative effects;
• independently choose the most appropriate methodological, technological, or modeling approach to assess and solve problems related to resources;
• integrate economic needs into an interdisciplinary framework (chemistry, biology, geology, ecology, physics, law, economics) to address complex environmental problems;
• critically analyze scientific literature and technical-regulatory documents and reports;
• independently evaluate policies, plans, and programs (legal, economic, energy), including in terms of sustainability and the UN Agenda 2030;
• independently develop the project and methodology for the final exam, critically evaluating the results obtained and integrating them with scientific literature.

Communication Skills (Dublin Descriptor 4)
At the end of the course, the student will be able to:
• be able to clearly and concisely explain, with appropriate language, the main environmental issues related to planetary boundaries;
• interact and collaborate with third parties.

Learning Skills (Dublin Descriptor 5)
At the end of the course, the student will be able to:
• be able to apply acquired knowledge to determine the best practices in future policies;
• be able to apply the acquired knowledge to new areas, different from those covered in the course, independently integrating it with other sources of knowledge;
• consult international scientific literature, databases, and technical reports from research centers, local authorities, governments, and international organizations;
• work both in groups and independently, using the scientific method as a working tool.