Students’ presentations of eight of the highest-graded dissertations from the last two years made up the event programme. In her introductory comments, Dr Belinda Gambin, Course Coordinator, underlined the interdisciplinary nature of the B.Sc. (Hons) in Earth Systems programme, which considers the various key components of the Earth’s systems and their interactions in order to develop an integrated and holistic approach to the management and planning of activities at the human-nature interface.
The research presented covered a wide range of issues of practical importance at both the local and regional level. Research topics included investigations into heavy metal pollutants in Maltese honey and the fungal diseases of grape vines, weather prediction modelling and the use of remote sensing for monitoring surface runoff after rainfall, and two studies aimed at improving the urban environment - one assessing traffic noise in urban hotspots and another providing a draft policy brief to encourage the setting up of local community gardens. A full list of dissertation titles from the last two years is available within the event programme [PDF].
The event was attended, both online and in person, by students, members of the University’s academic staff, and attendees from the government and private sector, as well as careers advisors from both sixth forms and secondary schools.
Close to 200 students have graduated with a B.Sc. (Hons) in Earth Systems during the ten years since the programme’s inception and a further 18 students are expected to graduate this December.
Applications for the B.Sc. (Hons) in Earth Systems for October 2021 are now open, and applicants are invited to contact Dr Belinda Gambin with any queries.