This course explores the mineral, energy and food resources of the ocean and environmental impacts that arise from the exploitation of these resources. The focus is on offshore drilling for energy resources, the exploitation of marine organisms, and pollution associated with human activity. This course consists of a lecture plus discussion section. It includes the examination of popular science writing and research science writing, including data presentation. Topics covered include:

1. The movement of water in the ocean: Winds and ocean currents; Stratification, mixing and deep ocean circulation; Residence times and box models
2. Law of the Sea
3. Mineral resources: phosphates (guano), manganese nodules, mid-ocean ridge minerals; carbon cycle and the oceans; energy demands on the planet; petroleum-producing sediments; and gas hydrates
4. Oil spills (drilling, transport, waste discharge): offshore drilling; oil spill cleanup; and oil spill environmental impacts
5. Collapsed fisheries: maximum sustainable yield; fishing techniques; fishing down the food chain; keystone species and ecosystem change; invasive species and globalization; ecosystem change and marine geochemistry; marine preserves; and aquaculture
6. Boundaries of the ocean: coastal erosion; coastal development, reclamation, dredging and deposal of spoil; human waste products; coastal dead zones; amplification of toxins; and great garbage patch plastics
7. Climate change: ocean acidification — shell hell; polar oceans; coral reefs; and sea level

Course Requirements:

A 3000-word term paper with an explanation of incorporated edits (30%), a 1000-word popular science article (10%). Discussion section homework and participation (15%) Two exams will count for 30% of the final grade each. Lecture assignments and participation will account for 10% of the grade, while weekly quizzes will account for 5% of final grade.

Intended Audience:

Participation in synchronous remote discussion sections is required.

EARTH 333 is intended for students interested in the resource and environmental issues associated with the watery 70% of the Earth’s surface; Science concentrators, especially in Earth and Environmental Sciences.

Class Format:

Lecture 3 hours per week, discussion with GSI 1 hour per week.

In addition, scheduled office hours for student groups will be available twice a week for further discussion and clarification of course materials. Weekly quizzes, one midterm exam and a final will be based on the content of these lectures and associated homework.