Ecosystems All core subject matter and extension material in this topic helps to develop an understanding of ecological systems. All core subject matter in this topic helps to develop an understanding of biodiversity that is necessary for sustainable natural resource management. One objective refers specifically to human impacts on biodiversity. Of these 10 hours, a minimum of five must be spent in the study of natural ecosystems. These requirements could be met through natural resource management topics, such as studies of the quality of water and vegetation in catchments or of State forest ecosystems and their management for multiple uses.
Students can carry out soil and water analysis as an elective topic.
The syllabus also allows scope for curriculum writers to develop topics that they consider relevant to local marine issues. In this respect, topics such as pollution and local management issues can be developed. Similar links can be made to topics in the board-registered subject of Marine Education. Therefore environmental impacts must be considered in economic decision making and vice versa. Sometimes the market fails to achieve socially desirable objectives, such as ecologically sustainable development, and government intervention may then be necessary.