As the introductory course to the Environmental Engineering Sequence, EV300 provides the cadet with a broad understanding of current global and local environmental issues. It specifically focuses on natural ecosystems processes, the effects of pollution on human health and how the level of risk associated with this pollution is assessed, the environmental effects of energy use, and air pollution concerns such as global climate change, acid rain, and smog. Discussions of anthropogenic influences are conducted with consideration of social, economic, technological and political impacts. Cadets learn to evaluate literature on environmental issues through readings and interactive debates. A course project applying the scientific method to evaluate a current environmental problem provides an opportunity to tie multiple course topics with an in-depth study of an issue of interest.