This is an inter-disciplinary module focusing on the interaction between ecology, biodiversity and human societies. It examines the human drivers of biodiversity loss, the importance of biodiversity to human society, conflicts between human society and conservation and how these can be resolved, and institutions for biodiversity conservation and environmental management. It is designed for students of Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Environmental Geography and International Development and Development Studies. This inter-disciplinary module does not require previous detailed knowledge of ecological mechanisms; where a simple understanding of key ecological processes is important, this will be reviewed and taught in class. Key principles, issues and theory are covered in lectures by UEA faculty. These are supported by case studies from external speakers working in conservation, environmental and resource management agencies and NGOs. The module will comprise 2 core lectures plus one workshop / seminar / outside speaker each week. The module will be assessed by a spring semester exam and coursework designed to develop skills in reviewing and interpreting evidence to non-scientists. This will comprise a briefing paper written for non-specialist policy makers, reviewing scientific evidence and areas of uncertainty on a conservation topic, and providing recommendations for UK government policy and identifying research needed, involving both group (written report max 1500 words, conducted in pairs) and individual (powerpoint slideshow: a summary presentation for policy makers) elements. There are no formal prerequisites, but the module complements and builds on a number of 200 level module including: ENV / BIO 200 level core ecology modules (ie, populations, processes), ENV2A8Y Economics of the Environment, ENV-2A06 Environmental Politics and Policy Making, DEV-2C63 Natural Resources for Development II, DEV-2D64 Natural Resources for Development III.