Course coordinator
Dr Philip Stewart
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 2, 2025 (28/07/2025 - 22/11/2025)
- Study level
- Postgraduate Coursework
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- The Environment School
Many tools are available to governments, industry and citizens to help them make and implement good environmental management decisions. These include, for example, EIA, environmental risk management, environmental auditing and corporate reporting. This course focuses on the essential techniques and methods and outlines their application to resolving problems of sustainable development. The course involves an investigation of how these tools fit within legislative and institutional frameworks, and trends in the use of particular tools at project, local, regional, national and international scales.
Environmental Impact Assessment can be undertaken for a wide range of reasons including formal approval processes for a proposed development, as well as a range of other motivations such as the establishment of a licensing agreement, an unforeseen event or environmental crisis, or other requirements imposed by conventions and legislative frameworks. In this context, many tools are available to governments, industry and citizens to help them undertake impact assessment and to define any associated monitoring that may be required. Foremost is the formal EIA process, however, within this framework, a range of tools such as environmental risk assessment, and socio-economic assessments may also play a vital role. Similarly, tools such as modelling, spatial tools (GIS) and stakeholder engagement techniques can also be important. Within an adaptive management framework this course focuses explores the EIA process as well as the essential techniques and methods it might involve and outlines their application to resolving problems of sustainable resource management. The course also involves an investigation of how these tools fit within legislative and institutional frameworks, as well as the practicalities of how the tools are applied in the real world.
This course is co-taught between ENVM2203 and ENVM7206.
Course requirements
Assumed background
Whilst there are no prerequisities for this course, it is anticipated thatﾠstudents will have some familiarityﾠof environmental management and elements of environmental science such as general biology, ecology, or other relevant discipline.
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
ENVM2203, ENVM3203
Restrictions
Not available for Study Abroad students
Jointly taught details
This course is jointly-taught with:
- ENVM2203
The lectures are co-taught with ENVM2203.
ENVM7206 Internal and External practicals are co-taught using Zoom (live streaming, as well as being recorded).
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Philip Stewart
Guest lecturer
Dr Chris McGrath
Adjunct Professor Scott Hanna
Ms Swastika Samanta
Ms Anuradhi Jayasinghe
Dr Ron Johnstone
Tutor
Ms Swastika Samanta
Ms Anuradhi Jayasinghe
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Aims and outcomes
The central aim of this course is to provide students with a working knowledge of the main approaches, methodologies and tools used in environmental impact assessment (EIA) and the development of related monitoring programs. The course includes the core concepts and methods relevant to the EIA process and relates this to the fields of environmental management and planning, as well as in resolving problems of sustainable development and resource use. The technical, institutional and decision-making aspects of a range of tools are presented, discussed, and critically assessed.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Define the formal environmental impacts assessment(EIA)methodology and overall approach.
LO2.
Describe the overall interactions and links between the EIA process and domains such as planning and management as part of a sound decision making process for choices in environmental management.
LO3.
Understand the critical aspects of different tools and instruments within the EIA approach that make them more or less suited to use by practitioners including policymakers, planners and managers.
LO4.
Understand the biophysical and social dimensions of specific environmental problems as they relate to management outcomes and the approaches taken to address them.
LO5.
Apply their understanding of the role of science and other types of knowledge in environmental policy, planning and management to decision making in assessment and monitoring.
LO6.
Apply knowledge of the EIA process in the development of an appropriate monitoring & assessment program.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quiz |
Quiz - 1: Lectures 1 to 4
|
15% 1% per correct answer |
29/08/2025 2:00 pm |
| Quiz |
Quiz - 2: Lectures 5 to 8
|
15% 1% per correct answer |
26/09/2025 2:00 pm |
| Quiz |
Quiz - 3: Lectures 1 to 11
|
20% 1% per correct answer |
24/10/2025 2:00 pm |
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation |
Environmental Impact Assessment Report
|
50% |
24/10/2025 2:00 pm |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
Quiz - 1: Lectures 1 to 4
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 15% 1% per correct answer
- Due date
29/08/2025 2:00 pm
Task description
Task Description:
Students will need to answer all 15 multiple choice true/false questions (1% per correct answer out of 15%) that will be made available on Blackboard.
This is an Open Book Quiz
This quiz will cover lectures 1 to 4 and will consist of multiple choice, true/false questions taken directly from the lectures and reading set for students in both the lectures and contact sessions.
The quiz opens from 8am on Monday the 25th August and closes at 2pm on Friday the 29th August. There is a 5-day window to take the 15-minute quiz.
You are allowed one (1) attempt within the 5-day window. Please make sure you answer all the questions.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
The quiz is to be taken online and submitted through Blackboard by the due date.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
See the Additional assessment information section below for information relating to extension applications.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
Quiz - 2: Lectures 5 to 8
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 15% 1% per correct answer
- Due date
26/09/2025 2:00 pm
Task description
Task Description:
Students will need to answer all 15 multiple choice true/false questions (1% per correct answer out of 15%) that will be made available on Blackboard.
This is an Open Book Quiz
This quiz will cover lectures 5 to 8 and will consist of multiple choice, true/false questions taken directly from the lectures and reading set for students in both the lectures and contact sessions.
The quiz opens from 8am on Monday the 22nd of September and closes at 2pm on Friday the 26th of September. There is a 5-day window to take the 15-minute quiz.
You are allowed one (1) attempt within the 5-day window. Please make sure you answer all the questions.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
The quiz is to be taken online and submitted through Blackboard by the due date.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
See the Additional assessment information section below for information relating to extension applications.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
Quiz - 3: Lectures 1 to 11
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 20% 1% per correct answer
- Due date
24/10/2025 2:00 pm
Task description
Task Description:
Students will need to answer all 20 multiple choice true/false questions (1% per correct answer out of 20%) that will be made available on Blackboard.
This is an Open Book Quiz
This quiz will cover lectures 1 to 11 and will consist of multiple choice, true/false questions taken directly from the lectures and reading set for students in both the lectures and contact sessions.
The quiz opens from 8am on Monday the 20th October and closes at 2pm on Friday the 24th October. There is a 5-day window to take the 20-minute quiz.
You are allowed one (1) attempt within the 5-day window. Please make sure you answer all the questions.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
The quiz is to be taken online and submitted through Blackboard by the due date.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
See the Additional assessment information section below for information relating to extension applications.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
Environmental Impact Assessment Report
- Hurdle
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 50%
- Due date
24/10/2025 2:00 pm
Task description
Students need to select any EIA of their own choice and using their knowledge of the processes involved in EIA's gained through the lectures write a report on the EIA they have chosen. The student must discuss whether or not their chosen EIA meets present requirements of an EIA, justifying and identify why it does or does not meet these requirements.
The report must have 5 scientific references in the report, with referencing following the Australian Harvard referencing style.
The word limit for the Report is 4500 words.+/- 10%.
It is expected that ENVM7206 students will achieve a higher standard of research and report writing skills. Please read the marking criteria on Blackboard in this regard.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Hurdle requirements
See ADDITIONAL COURSE GRADING INFORMATION for the hurdle relating to this assessment item.Submission guidelines
Online submission by Turnitin only by the due date and time. No hard copy or assignment cover sheets are required. Submission via email is not accepted.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
See the Additional assessment information section below for information relating to extension applications.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 0% |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 30% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 45% |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 50% |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 65% |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 75% |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 85% |
Additional course grading information
Assessment Hurdle
In order to pass this course, you must meet the following requirements (if you do not meet these requirements, the maximum grade you will receive will be a 3):
Students must obtain 50% or more on the EIA Report.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a grade of 3, you may be eligible for supplementary assessment. Refer to the UQ website for information on supplementary assessment and how to apply.
Supplementary assessment provides an additional opportunity to demonstrate you have achieved all the required learning outcomes for a course.
If you apply and are granted supplementary assessment, the type of supplementary assessment set will consider which learning outcome(s) have not been met.
Supplementary assessment can take any form (such as a written report, oral presentation, examination or other appropriate assessment) and may test specific learning outcomes tailored to the individual student, or all learning outcomes.
To receive a passing grade of 3S4, you must obtain a mark of 50% or more on the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
Applications for Extensions to Assessment Due Dates
Read the information contained in the following links carefully before submitting an application for extension to assessment due date.
For guidance on applying for an extension, information is available here: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/exams-and-assessment/applying-assessment-extension
For the policy relating to extensions, information is available here (Part D): https://policies.uq.edu.au/document/view-current.php?id=184
Please note the University's requirements for medical certificates here: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/uq-policies-and-rules/requirements-medical-certificates
Turnitin
By submitting work through Turnitin you are deemed to have accepted the following declaration “I certify that this assignment is my own work and has not been submitted, either previously or concurrently, in whole or in part, to this University or any other educational institution, for marking or assessment.”
All students must ensure they receive their Turnitin receipt on submission of any assessments. A valid Turnitin receipt will be the only evidence accepted if assessments are missing. Without evidence, the assessment will receive the standard late penalty, or after seven days, will receive zero.
In the case of a Blackboard outage, please contact the Course Coordinator as soon as possible to confirm the outage with ITS.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Library resources are available on the UQ Library website.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Not scheduled |
Lecture |
Week 13 - Course Summary |
Lecture |
Week 12 - Application of ESIA in International Dev This lecture looks at the application of ESIA in International Development Projects |
|
Week 1 (28 Jul - 03 Aug) |
Lecture |
Week 1 - Introduction to the EIA Process This lecture defines the EIA process and relates it to the overall adaptive approach to environmental management. Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Week 2 (04 Aug - 10 Aug) |
Lecture |
Week 2 - AEM, Regulatory Frameworks. This lecture explores AEM and the regulatory, policy, and governance motivations and drivers behind the EIA process at a local, national and international level. |
Week 3 (11 Aug - 17 Aug) |
Lecture |
Week 3 - The EIA Process in Detail. This lecture takes students through the environmental impact assessment process in detail including its link to the development of ensuing environmental monitoring and assessment programs. |
Week 4 (18 Aug - 24 Aug) |
Lecture |
Week 4 - Social-Cultural Impact Assessment As an integral part of EIA, this lecture covers social & cultural impact assessment methods and encompasses indigenous issues as a specific aspect of this. |
Week 5 (25 Aug - 31 Aug) |
Lecture |
Week 5 - Socio-Economic Impact Assessment This lecture presents & discuses tools for economic assessment from both an application perspective as well as how they may be used to support planning & management beyond the EIA. |
Week 6 (01 Sep - 07 Sep) |
Lecture |
Week 6 - Inside the EIA: Risk Assessment In contrast to some of the other methods this component examines how risk assessment can be a core element of the EIA process and provide key outputs for any ensuing monitoring or assessment. |
Week 7 (08 Sep - 14 Sep) |
Lecture |
Week 7 - Adaptive Environmental Management (AEM). This lecture looks at Adaptive Environmental Management |
Week 8 (15 Sep - 21 Sep) |
Lecture |
Week 8 - Statistics, QA and QC in the EIA. This lecture gives an overview of current and emerging methods in statistics that underpin assessment & monitoring design within current EIA practise. |
Week 9 (22 Sep - 28 Sep) |
Lecture |
Week 9 - Using a Systems Approach & Modelling This lecture explores the fundamentals of systems approaches to environmental impact assessment and a range of modelling tools useful within the EIA process and its design. |
Week 12 (20 Oct - 26 Oct) |
Lecture |
Week 10 - Case Study & Monitoring This lecture examines a case study and monitoring element of the EIA process which is critical in the design and reporting of the EIA outcomes. |
Week 13 (27 Oct - 02 Nov) |
Lecture |
Week 11 - Maximising its value. This lecture uses current case studies to demonstrate how to maximise the value and ultimate usefulness of an EIA as applied to different problem sets. |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments for Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.