M.INC.1001: International Nature Conservation

(6 C / 4 SWS)

Learning outcome

This course provides knowledge about nature conservation. In the lecture, the students learn the principles of conservation biology and different aspects of international nature conservation. This includes hotspots of global biodiversity as well as their main threats.

In the seminar the following topics will be discussed:

  • International Conventions (CBD, CMS, CITES, RAMSAR, UNCCD, UNFFCCC, MAB)
  • International Agencies (IUCN, UNEP, WCMC, IPBES, Development Organisations)
  • North-South Issues (Ecological Footprint, Land Grabbing, Management and Research Capacities, Biodiversity Governance)
  • Protected Area Management (Theoretical Base, CBD working programme PoWPA, UNESCO, Adaptive Management)
  • Communication and Education, Sustainable Financing of Conservation - Basics and Instruments (Carbon & Biodiversity, REDD+, CDM, PES)
  • Valuing Biodiversity (TEEB)
  • Businessand Managementplans (long-term financial planning, new revenues, Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)/Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA)
  • Certification Schemes (FSC, MSC, RSPO) and how to deal with them

Courses and examinations

Courses:

  1. International Nature Conservation (Lecture, 2 SWS)
  2. International Nature Conservation (Seminar, 2 SWS)

Examination

  • Written exam (90 Minutes)
  • Prerequisite: Presentation (approx. 30 minutes) or assignment (max. 10 pages) for the seminar

Core skills

The students understand the principles and concepts of international nature conservation, and they are able to apply this knowledge to conservation projects of different focuses.

They are familiar with the various approaches in the field of applied conservation, and they can plan the steps necessary to implement an applied conservation project. In the seminar, the students focus on one of the topics mentioned above. They are able to apply theoretical knowledge to regional problems, and they can represent relevant cases of studies in a presentation or an assignment according to scientific standards.

Further details

  • Work load: 180 h (56/124 h, attendance / self-study)
  • Admission requirements: None
  • Recommended previous knowledge: None
  • Language: English
  • Person responsible for module: Prof. Matthias Waltert
  • Course frequency: Each winter semester
  • Duration: One semester
  • Number of repeat examinations permitted: Twice
  • Recommended Semester: First Semester
  • Maximum number of students: 15