Program Overview

Introduction to Sustainable Resources: Challenges and Principles (BENV0069)

Key Information

The module is part of the UCL Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment, specifically taught by the Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources. It carries a credit value of 15.

• Faculty: UCL Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment
• Teaching department: Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources
• Credit value: 15

Restrictions

This module is compulsory for students taking MSc Sustainable Resources: Economics, Policy and Transitions (SREPT).

Alternative Credit Options

There are no alternative credit options available for this module.

Description

This module introduces the fundamental principles related to natural resources and explores the challenges of managing them sustainably. It covers how humans rely upon and value resources, the impacts of human activities on natural resources, and the meaning of managing natural resources sustainably. The module also explores the interconnections between different natural resources and their connections with climate change, justice, politics, and governance. It emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary working, critical thinking, and clear written and spoken communication. A 3-day field trip is included to enable students to experience sustainable resource management in action.

• Connections between human activity and natural resources
• Concepts of sustainability, the resource nexus, and planetary boundaries
• Interconnections between various resources
• Resource connections with climate change, justice, and sustainable development
• Relevance of politics, governance, and ethics to sustainable resource use
• Importance of multidisciplinary research in sustainable resources

Module Deliveries for 2026/27 Academic Year

The intended teaching term for this module is Term 1, and it is classified as a postgraduate module at FHEQ Level 7.

Teaching and Assessment

The mode of study is in-person, with assessments consisting of:

• 20% Viva or oral presentation
• 80% Coursework

The mark scheme is based on numeric marks.

Other Information

• Number of students on the module in the previous year: 50
• Module leader: Dr. Nicholas Hughes

Last Updated

This module description was last updated on 10th March 2026.