This is an interdisciplinary module that provides a basic framework of knowledge and understanding of the natural science of Planet Earth. We emphasize the connections between the lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere through flows of mass and energy, e.g. as demonstrated in the climate system. We cover the processes of landscape evolution and sediment accumulation, and give a broad introduction to biogeography, global diversity and ecological processes. We stress the need to understand modern processes as a guide to interpreting the past and predicting the future