Code 21924
Level of study Third/Final year
Credit value 20
Semester 1
Pre-requisite modules One of:03 23438 Environmental Assessment and Management03 19132 Enterprise and Economic Geography03 23142 Social and Political Geography03 24286 The U
This module explores the relationships between the social, political, economic and environmental underpinnings of capitalism, on the one hand, and the geographies of energy chains and formations, on the other. It is based on the premise that energy systems have become a core part of modern societies, since they heavily influence the location and dynamics of human activities. The module reviews various spatial aspects of contemporary energy operations: patterns of consumption and demand, the politics and history of the 'energy state', fossil fuel and renewable resources, energy efficiency, energy poverty, bio-fuels, land-use, and the 'food versus fuel debate'. Students are expected to gain a range of writing, presentation, data analysis, and qualitative and quantitative research skills. However, a basic level of quantitative ability and willingness to engage with physical concepts surrounding energy use is required.
Lectures, seminars, film screenings, small group discussion, enquiry-based and problem-solving learning, student-led action research