EDUCATION CONFERENCE

ENVIRONMENTAL LITERACY IN MINERALS EDUCATION

Undergraduate [minerals] education should deliver technical excellence in the fundamental principles of science and engineering, an understanding of broader issues facing the industry and the ability to continue to learn.

The conference brought together senior academics and senior industry and government managers to discuss how environmental issues can be better incorporated into current and future teaching curricula without detracting from the extensive technical education that is required. The conference programme looked at specific environmental course ‘units’, and also at how sustainable development considerations can be incorporated into mainstream courses at institutions. Some leading minerals companies will explained why they prefer to employ graduates who have a basic understanding of broader environmental and social issues.

The first part of the conference was dedicated to a discussion of the issues, an exchange of experience of participants, and a debate on curriculum options. During the final day participants were able to discuss the availability of technical and financial assistance for new curriculum initiatives with international and national organisations that attended the conference. The conference led to the development of proposals for further action and networking among participants from all regions of the world.  Further details of the programme are given in the brochure.

The conference was based around a discussion format rather than formal presentations. Papers from participants were circulated before the meeting to allow maximum time for debate during the discussion sessions. All papers will be posted here for wide readership as they are made available.