2026/7 – ENV-5050A Earth's Critical Zone

Autumn Semester, Level 5 module, Credits: UCU 20

Organiser: Professor Brian Reid

Assessment Type: Examination with Coursework or Project

Timetable Slot: D

The Earth's Critical Zone(ECZ) is an interdisciplinary subject exploring the interactions between the land surface and coastal environments, vegetation and surface water, and extends through the soil zone to groundwater. The ECZ regulates natural habitats and determines the availability of resources that sustain terrestrialand aquatic life. The semi-arid region of East Anglian provides an excellent case study for understanding the physical and chemical processes that operate in this zone, a critical step in ensuring reliable provision of food, drinking water and healthy ecosystems. This newly emerging discipline will be of value in defining policy and management of our environment.