Introduction to Environmental Issues as a Chemistry for Non-Science Majors Course

The course was designed around six global ecological challenges in order to engage the interest of non-science majors and to prepare them to become environmentally responsible citizens. Each topic began with a real, current case study. After the chemistry and environmental science necessary to understand the topic was introduced, students participated in a project, class activity or laboratory activity. To help students think critically about human-environmental interactions and sustainability, and to make decisions based on a broader world view of the importance of protecting the earth and all on it, each topic was also viewed from economic, ethical and spiritual lenses. The integration of these views was tied to their service learning project development of a vertical hydroponic system for a local food pantry. Topics for the course included: food, biodiversity, natural resources, energy, water, and global climate change.