BTEC3004 Environmental Biotechnology

Environmental Biotechnology is about the monitoring and maintenance of the environment and the sustainability of environmental industries. It aims to provide an understanding of the environmental and biological challenges facing society through the integration of biology. There are three themes running through the Environmental Biotechnology topic: Bioremediation, plant biotechnology and wastewater processes. Underpinning the topic is the biotechnology of environmental assessment and analysis using modern methods for sampling, quantification and analysis. Students will participate in workshops, practicals and tutorials to synthesise a scientific analysis of relevant environmental technology data. With this analysis students will produce an emulated scientific paper.

This topic aims to:

• Convey the breadth of interacting disciplines that comprise Environmental Biotechnology
• Describe in-depth examples and illustrative case-studies representative of key areas of Environmental Biotechnology
• Explain how core scientific concepts and practical techniques are applied in Environmental Biotechnology
• Develop problem-solving and team work skills
• Develop skills in information retrieval and critical reading of original literature

1. Transfer and apply core concepts drawn from biology, molecular biology, microbiology, chemistry and environmental sciences to develop an understanding of how to assess modern environmental issues including pollution, environmental plant biology, and water recycling
2. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of existing and emerging technologies that are important for environmental biotechnology
3. Synthesise information and communicate effectively, succinctly and sensitively with the scientific community, clients, and the broad public via scientific papers ands presentations
4. Demonstrate knowledge of specific examples of how integrated science can be used to assess environmental problems