Program responds to needs of socially responsible industry

Environmental and social responsibility are as important as profits and competitiveness for many modern organisations, a fact informing the development of a new UQ program.

The University of Queensland's (UQ) Faculty of Natural Resources, Agriculture and Veterinary Science (NRAVS) has introduced a revolutionary new program aimed at students seeking future careers in natural resource management and conservation.

According to the Head of UQ's School for Natural and Rural Systems Management, Professor Ockie Bosch, the Bachelor of Applied Science (Integrated Resource Management) will address a world-wide demand for people with the understanding and skills to manage our natural resources.

"Integrated Resource Management is a new cutting-edge field dealing with managing complex human, environmental and economic interactions," Professor Bosch said.

"We are faced with many resource management issues central to Australia's and indeed the world's future including water, climate change, persistent poverty, economic globalisation, environmental degradation and social and political conflict.

"These issues will drive exciting and diverse careers in this area both at home and internationally."

The new program will introduce the concept of combining the needs of industry with integrated national resource science, economics and social issues. Students will have an opportunity to concentrate their studies in areas such as resource economics, environmental tourism, tropical forestry, land and water, coastal environments, mining and conservation.

By completing the Integrated Resource Management program, students will be well equipped to find sustainable solutions to the complex problems facing the world today. According to Professor Bosch, not only will the program benefit the individual, it has the potential to have a very positive impact on both Australia and the world.

"The expertise to deal with these issues and make decisions which have the best possible outcome for long-term sustainability will be integral to the future of the planet. It is an exciting time for students thinking about entering this area. They will be in a position to make a real difference to the world," Professor Bosch said.

Media inquiries: Susanne Schick, UQ Gatton/NRAVS (5460 1229, 0409 265 587).

Further information/comment: Professor Ockie Bosch (5460 1047)