This course provides an introduction to the complex Earth System (the solid earth, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere) and our interactions with it. The science behind our exploration and understanding of our planet and its ongoing evolution is explored in combination with the engineering geology of geo-materials, geo-resources, geo-dynamics and geo-risk. The connection between the Earth System and human activity is explored in depth, including local and global-scale impacts of engineering works, geopolitics, and resource issues. Examples of the terrestrial sources of geo-materials used in engineering activities are highlighted along with the technical, social, economic and environmental challenges associated with their life cycle including sustainability, contamination, biodiversity loss, social impact and climate change.
(Lec: 2.8, Lab: 0.5, Tut: 0)