Ecology and the Environment in Spain (in English) - Summer

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The aim is to provide theoretical and practical knowledge through the analysis 
of the major environmental problems in Spain, their contextualisation at a 
global level and in a historical perspective. The causes of the current situation 
will be discussed, as well as future prospects and possible avenues for 
intervention. Through case studies, the aim is to give the student the ability to 
understand the potential, risks, opportunities and impacts linked to the Spanish 
environmental framework. These objectives will be achieved not only through 
theoretical classes, but also through field trips.

CONTENTS. 
Unit 1. Delimitation of the concept of environment: interpretations, uses and 
meanings.
Unit 2. Introduction to the potential and limitations of the natural environment 
in Spain: natural resources and environmental hazards.
Unit 3. The metabolism of the Spanish economy: the unsustainability of the 
productive fabric and the development model.
Unit 4. Climate change in Spain: local manifestation of a global problem.
Unit 5. The water problem in Spain.
Unit 6. Towards an energy transition? Conventional model vs renewable 
energies.
Unit 7. The transformation of the landscape in Spain and its environmental 
consequences.
Unit 8. The protection of ecological values and biodiversity: protected natural 
spaces.

METHODOLOGY
• Theoretical classes
• Practical classes, seminars and fieldwork
• Commitment and involvement for the individual tutorial plan
• Self-learning activities
• Activities of individual practical works
• Practical teamwork activities

EVALUATION
1. Exam. It represents 30% of the final grade. It will consist of a multiplechoice test with 25 questions.
2. Activities and participation. This represents 20% of the final grade. They 
will be carried out during class time and will be handed in at the end of 
class.
3. Report on an environmental problem or conflict in Spain (30%). It will be 
handed in on the last day of the course by email in PDF format.
4. Essay. An essay on the field work (20%). It will be handed in on the last 
day of the course by email in PDF format.