This course explores the distribution and occurrence of the major mineral and energy resources currently used by humans, and the environmental consequences of their exploitation. The relationships, for example, between particular types of ore occurrences and the global plate tectonic cycle are examined, together with the global abundances, and the styles of exploitation of hydrocarbon-, fission-, and geothermal-based energy reserves. The basic geochemistry controlling the deposition, exploitation and uses of mineral and energy resources are reviewed, as well as the long-term economic and environmental consequences.

A combination of essay, practical assignments and theory examination.

Three lectures and a two-hour practical per week

Any 1st year GEOL, ENVS or SRES courses

SREM2007 and GEOL2016

Craig, J, Vaughan, D. and Skinner, B. (2001) Resources of the Earth: Origin, Use and Environmental Impact, 3rd ed., Prentice Hall.