ECOL06001 2008 INTRODUCTION TO ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION

Understand, with the use of examples, the study of basic ecological interactions.

Define and understand the basic idea of ‘biological diversity'.

Examine man's interaction with the environment in both positive and negative terms.

Discuss the progression of Ireland's natural heritage since the last glaciation.

Identify and recount the natural history of one of Ireland's species of flora and one of fauna.

Understand the reasons for conservation.

Give a description of the development of the conservation movement.

Identify and give working examples of conservation measures in Ireland and abroad.

Demonstrate knowledge of the state bodies and Non Governmental Organisations involved in conservation in Ireland.

Identify the major environmental legislation in relation to tourism.

1.   Introduction and definitions  

• Define the ecosystem, the environment and ecology.
• Summarise biological diversity or ‘biodiversity'.
• Explain the background to conservation.
• An overview of Ireland's environment.
• Describe the relationship between the environment and tourism.

2.   Human interactions with the ecosystem

• Where are humans placed in the ecosystem?
• Give examples of ecological interactions that demonstrate the fragility of the ecosystem (e.g. myxomathosis in rabbits etc.).
• What impacts do humans have on the ecosystem?
• Do the general public think about the vulnerability of the ecosystem?

3.   Ireland's natural history

• Describe the Irish environment 10,000 years ago.
• Discussion of the prominent steps towards the formation of Ireland's landscape as we see it today.
• The impact of tourism on the environment

4.   The life history of some Irish species of flora and fauna.

• General introduction to the diversity of species in Ireland.
• Detail the ecology of a selection of Irish species (Case study).

5.   Conservation

• Description of the history of conservation.
• Conservation in Ireland.
• Issues facing conservation in Ireland.
• "Conservation and Tourism- two polar opposites?"
• The role of Government and NGO organisations in conservation.

6.   Legislation

• Brief overview of the major environmental directives relevant to tourism, e.g. Freshwater Framework Directive, Habitats Directive etc.

Practical elements

• Field study outings
• Coastal location outing (possibly attended by a member of the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG)) including a suitable code of conduct for whale and dolphin watching.
• Case study of a National Park in County Mayo / Donegal including a visit to Ballycroy / Glenveagh / Connemara National Park.
• Case study: Management plan for islands off the coast of Ireland regarding nest seabirds, wading birds and seals, i.e. prevention of rat introduction etc. Sustainable numbers of tourists to visit the island etc.