In the early days of environmentalism there were often clear divisions between the environmental movement and the economists, industrialists, and political decision-makers that were often judged to be a big part of the problem.

This is changing.

With the growth in understanding of the importance of the environment and our reliance upon it, there is increasing willingness of politicians to prioritise environmental protection. Economic systems increasingly recognise how natural systems support economic systems.
We have the ability to solve the problems, but we must also be responsible in how we live and the demands we place on the planet.
Planet Earth is the only planet we can all live and so we must look after it. If we are to manage it well, we must:

• • study Earth to see how it works;
  • understand how we rely on environmental resources and services for our survival;
  • understand that human actions are reducing the ability of Earth to support us and the other species with which we share this planet;
  • develop sustainable lifestyles.

To achieve this we must study how the Earth and human society interact, and gain a better understanding on which we can make better decisions.
This is what Environmental Science is all about. You are the next generation of environmentally aware environmental scientists who will be equipped to help others help our planet. Environmental Science is the key to generating convincing arguments and creating opportunities for promoting change.
Environmental Science is a highly relevant interdisciplinary fourth science option.

“The question is, are we happy to suppose that our grandchildren may never be able to see an elephant except in a picture book?” Mahatma Ghandi (Indian politician and activist).