Revised 5/2014

ENV 161 - Introduction to Environmental Compliance (3 CR.)

Course Description

Examines the statutory history of significant environmental legislation and the promulgation of rules and regulations attendant to these laws. Emphasis will be placed on 40 CFR and appropriate Virginia environmental code. Students will understand proper field techniques in sampling protocols for soil, water and air. Lecture 3 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to both National and Commonwealth of Virginia environmental policies. Those who should take this class include environmental science, political science, sociology, pre-law or general education students interested in environmental issues. Topics will include in the inception of environmental policy, the National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, Clean Air and Water Acts, and others. We will also examine the Virginia Environmental Code and its impact on environmental problems in the State of Virginia.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Prerequisite: ENG 111

Course Objectives

Upon completing the course, the student will be able to:

  • Use national environmental policies to draw conclusions on current environmental issues
  • Analyze a national/regional environmental problem
  • Use Commonwealth of Virginia Environmental Code to draw conclusions on current environmental issues
  • Analyze a regional (Chesapeake Bay) or Commonwealth of Virginia environmental problem
  • Apply the National Environmental Policy Act to a federal environmental case
  • Analyze a federal or state policy of choice for its effectiveness in meeting current environmental issues

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Origin of environmental policy
  • National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
  • Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act
  • Endangered Species Act, Fisheries Conservation Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act
  • Various environmental executive orders
  • Kyoto Protocol, UN Framework Convention on Climate Change
  • Virginia Environmental Code and its impact on environmental problems in the State of Virginia