Every winter semester
5 Credit points
For information on the duration of the modul, refer to the courses of study in which the module is used.
In this module, students learn the basic concepts of planetary boundaries, for example the material cycles of essential chemical components such as nitrogen and phosphorus. Students understand the basic processes and control variables for the various planetary boundaries and can assess how and why these need to be continuously adjusted. In the module, students also acquire the skills needed to categorise and evaluate new activities and technologies in terms of the concept of planetary boundaries. Students will also learn how terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems are being altered by anthropogenic activities such as agriculture and animal farming. After the course, students will be able to categorise alternative concepts for the production of natural raw materials in food production. In addition, students will be able to outline the main features of the water cycle and assess the conditions under which the use of certain methods for purifying and desalinating water makes ecological sense.
In terms of content, the theoretical foundations of the concept of planetary boundaries are laid. This concept considers various biological, physical and chemical processes and systems that determine the stability and resilience of the Earth system. They thus provide a guideline for a safe operating space for humanity. These systems are presented with their basic processes and control variables. In addition, the basics of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems are taught as well as the question of how anthropogenic activities such as agriculture and animal farming influence them, for example through eutrophication or oxygen deficiency. The basics of the water cycle are also presented, as well as chemical and technological methods for purifying and desalinating water.
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Module structure: 1 bPr 1
30 - 35 minutes.
| Degree programme | Recommended start 3 | Duration | Mandatory option 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sustainable Chemistry / Master of Science [FsB vom 05.03.2026] | 1. | 1 semester | Obligation |
The system can perform an automatic check for completeness for this module.