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What are you going to discover?

Students will be able to explain the connections between climate change and health, as well as the opportunities to address the health risks associated with climate change, create low-carbon and climate resilient health systems, and promote the health co-benefits of climate action.

In particular, this course aims to:

explain how climate change affects people's health, health systems, and facilities; give a thorough overview of how climate change and health are represented in global climate processes; outline the various approach to climate change and health; and present the procedure for creating low-carbon, climate-resilient health systems.

Learning Experience The course is designed to be self-paced. Participants engage with a variety of multi-media elements, including thought-provoking scenario-based multiple-choice questions, reflective exercises, exploratory tasks, and gamified features, allowing them to delve into intricate concepts related to climate change and health. They will navigate pertinent resources and hone their skills in evidence-based decision-making. The interactive components include pre-recorded videos, audio narration, readings, and guides. Comprehensive feedback is provided to assist participants in recognizing their strengths and identifying areas for improvement. Module 1 is compulsory and must be completed prior to enrolling in any of the elective modules 2-6 (scheduled for release in 2024). These elective modules can be taken in any sequence. The modules include: Introduction to climate change and health Assessing health vulnerability to climate change and the co-benefits of mitigation. Health in national climate change processes and plans. Accessing climate finance for climate change and health. Climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable health care facilities. Climate-informed health surveillance and early warning systems. Component A: Climate services for health. Component B: Epidemiology: the basics. Component C: Modelling to link weather/climate risks to health. Component D: Climate-informed decision support tools for public health. Component E: Implementing climate-informed decision support tools.

 Key aspects of an Environmental Toxicology and Risk Assessment course:   

Understanding Toxicants: 

The course delves into the sources, pathways, and effects of both organic and inorganic toxicants on various organisms, including humans. 

Mechanisms of Toxicity: 

It explores the physiological and biochemical principles of toxicity, including concepts like LD50 and NOEC (No Observed Effect Concentration). 

Environmental Fate and Transport: 

Participants learn about how pollutants move and transform within the environment, including processes like absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. 
Risk Assessment: 

The course focuses on the process of estimating the qualitative and quantitative health and environmental risks associated with chemical use. This involves understanding hazard identification, exposure assessment, and risk characterization. 

Monitoring and Remediation: 

It covers techniques for monitoring pollutants in air, water, and soil, as well as strategies for remediation and developing environmental quality standards. 

Regulatory Frameworks: 

Participants gain insights into the relevant legislation and guidelines for managing environmental hazards. 

Practical Skills: 

Many courses include practical sessions and case studies to develop hands-on experience in risk assessment and pollution monitoring. 

Career Applications: 

The course equips individuals with the skills to work in environmental consulting, regulatory agencies, or research institutions.     

 Specific areas covered may include:   

Aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric toxicology 

Ecotoxicology and its role in assessing environmental impact 

Risk assessment for soil and water 

Combined active substance formulations 

Higher tier risk assessment 

 Example Course Formats:   

  
Certificate in Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Monitoring: 

A 30-week online program with weekly lectures and practical materials, supported by e-tutors. 

Introduction to Ecotoxicology and Environmental Risk Assessment: 

A cross-sector training course focusing on ecotoxicological terminology, concepts, and testing methods. 

Risk Assessment/Risk Management Course: 

A course designed to develop a holistic, health-protective, cost-effective approach to risk assessment and management. 

Certificate in Environmental Risk Assessment: 

A program focused on enhancing knowledge and skills in environmental risk assessment, with a growing demand in the UK

Key aspects of Sustainable Systems Design courses:   

  





Systems Thinking: 

Understanding how different parts of a system interact and how design choices impact the whole system. 

 



Life Cycle Assessment: 

Evaluating the environmental impact of a product or system throughout its entire life cycle, from resource extraction to disposal. 





Circular Economy: 

Designing for the reuse, remanufacturing, and recycling of materials to minimize waste and resource depletion. 

 



Design for Sustainability: 

Applying various design principles and strategies to reduce environmental impact, improve social equity, and ensure long-term economic viability. 



Specific Applications: 

Focusing on areas like sustainable product design, building design, urban planning, or energy systems. 

Key aspects of these courses often include:   

  





Introduction to GIS principles: 

Understanding the underlying structure of GIS, its data models, and spatial analysis techniques. 



 



Spatial data management: 

Learning how to create, manipulate, and manage spatial data, including working with different data formats and sources. 



 



Environmental applications of GIS: 

Applying GIS to specific environmental challenges, such as habitat mapping, pollution monitoring, and climate change impact assessment. 



 



Data visualization and mapping: 

Producing maps and visualizations to communicate environmental information and support decision-making. 



 



GIS software proficiency: 

Gaining practical experience with GIS software like QGIS or ArcGIS. 



 

      

 Specific areas of focus may include:   

  





Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): 

Using GIS to assess the potential impacts of development projects on the environment. 





Biodiversity management: 

Mapping and analyzing habitats, species distributions, and conservation priorities. 





Pollution monitoring: 

Tracking pollution sources, mapping pollution plumes, and assessing pollution impacts. 





Natural resource management: 

Managing forests, water resources, and other natural resources using GIS. 

 



Climate change adaptation: 

Using GIS to assess climate change impacts and develop adaptation strategies. 

 

      

 Benefits of these courses:   

  





Enhanced career opportunities: GIS skills are highly valued in various environmental professions. 





Improved decision-making: GIS provides valuable tools for informed environmental decision-making. 

 



Effective environmental management: GIS enables better monitoring, assessment, and management of environmental resources. 

 



Contribution to sustainability: GIS plays a crucial role in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainability. 



 

      

 Examples of topics that will covered:   

  





An Introduction to GIS for Conservation Management: 

This course focuses on using GIS for conservation management, including data collection, analysis, and map production. 





Environmental Management with Geographic Information Systems (MSc/PgDip): 

This program provides a comprehensive understanding of environmental management principles and GIS applications. 

GIS for Environmental Management and Consultancy: 

This module focuses on the application of GIS in environmental management, including specific skills for the environmental sector. 





Remote Sensing & GIS for Environmental Monitoring: 

This course emphasizes the use of remote sensing data and GIS techniques for environmental analysis and monitoring. 





Introduction to QGIS for Ecologists: 

This course is designed for ecologists who need to produce habitat maps using QGIS

Here's a more detailed look at what such a course entails:         

 Core Areas of Study:   

Food Safety and Integrity: 

This includes understanding food production, hygiene, and safety regulations. 
Housing: 

Covers aspects like housing standards, sanitation, and their impact on public health. 





Occupational Safety and Health: 

Focuses on workplace hazards, risk assessment, and preventative measures. 





Environmental Protection: 

Deals with pollution control, waste management, and sustainable environmental practices. 





Public Health: 

Encompasses the broader aspects of health promotion, disease prevention, and community well-being. 





Risk Assessment and Management: 

This involves identifying, evaluating, and mitigating potential health risks associated with environmental factors. 





Legislation and Regulations: 

Understanding the legal framework related to environmental health and safety is crucial. 



      

 Learning Methods:   

  





Lectures and Seminars: Provide theoretical knowledge and foundational concepts. 





Practical Skills Training: Includes hands-on experience in areas like food safety inspections or risk assessments. 





Case Studies: Offer opportunities to apply learning to real-life scenarios and develop problem-solving skills. 

 



Fieldwork and Site Visits: Provide direct exposure to environmental health practices and challenges.
Independent Study and Research: Encourages in-depth exploration of specific topics and development of research skills. 

 Career Paths:   

 Graduates can work as:   

Environmental Health Practitioners/Officers: In local authorities, regulatory bodies, and private sector companies. 

Public Health Professionals: In government agencies, health services, and NGOs. 

Health and Safety Professionals: In various industries and workplaces. 

Consultants: Providing expertise on environmental health and safety issues. 

 

      

 

Here's a more detailed breakdown of what such a course might cover:
1. Understanding Environmental Pollutants:

Sources and Types of Pollutants:
The course would explore different types of pollutants, including air pollutants (gases, particulate matter), water pollutants (chemicals, pathogens), and solid and hazardous waste.

Chemicals and Radiation:
The course would address the health risks associated with exposure to chemicals, including industrial chemicals, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals, as well as radiation exposure.
Pollution in Specific Settings:
The course might also cover pollution in specific environments like urban areas, housing, or workplaces.

2. Health Impacts of Environmental Pollution:

Respiratory Issues:
The course would likely cover how air pollution, particularly particulate matter and gases, can trigger or exacerbate respiratory illnesses like asthma and COPD.

Cardiovascular Diseases:
Air pollution has been linked to cardiovascular diseases, including ischemic heart disease.
Cancer:
Some pollutants, like genotoxic air pollutants (e.g., PAHs), have been associated with increased cancer risk.
Other Health Effects:
The course might also cover other health effects, such as developmental problems, neurological issues, and reproductive health problems.

3. Risk Assessment and Management:

Risk Assessment Methodologies:
The course would likely include methods for assessing the health risks associated with environmental pollutants, such as exposure assessment, dose-response relationships, and risk characterization.

Control Measures:
The course would cover various strategies for controlling pollution and mitigating its health impacts, including engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment.
Policy and Regulations:
The course would address relevant environmental regulations and policies aimed at protecting public health.

4. Specific Topics:

Introduction to Environmental Health Science: An overview of the field, its importance, and key concepts.

Air Quality and Pollution Control: Focusing on air pollution sources, health effects, and control strategies.
Water Quality and Treatment: Addressing water pollution, its health impacts, and water treatment technologies.
Waste Management and Recycling: Covering waste management practices, including solid and hazardous waste.
Climate Change and Public Health: Examining the link between climate change and public health, including impacts of extreme weather events and changes in disease patterns.
Noise Pollution: The course might also address noise pollution and its health impacts, including cardiovascular problems and sleep disturbance.

5. Career Applications:

Environmental Health Officers:
The course would be relevant for those pursuing careers as environmental health officers, who play a vital role in protecting public health by addressing environmental hazards.

Environmental Consultants:
The course would equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to work as environmental consultants, providing expertise on environmental risk assessment and management.
Researchers and Policymakers:
The course would also be valuable for researchers and policymakers involved in developing and implementing environmental health policies.

Example Course Titles:
"Introduction to Air Quality, "Environmental Health and Risk Management, "Environmental Pollution Control, "Environmental Health QCF Course, and "Fast track Online Environmental Health Science Course" Level6