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Drones and GPS add buzz to ‘environmental’ A Level studying planet

The Environmental Science course will also cover climate change and energy supply issues in education shake up

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TEENAGERS will learn about drones and GPS trackers in a new A-level studying the planet.

The Environmental Science course will examine how drones help catch poachers and monitor crop pests.

 New course ... teenagers will learn about how drones help catch poachers
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New course ... teenagers will learn about how drones help catch poachersCredit: Associated Press

It will also cover how GPS tracks wildlife and how satellites can search for precious minerals.

Other topics include climate change and issues over energy supplies such as fracking, wind, solar and nuclear power.

Exam board AQA said the course will be available from September next year if approved.

It would be part of an ongoing overhaul of GCSEs and A-levels.

 Shake up ... the new course is part of the overhaul of GCSEs and A Levels
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Shake up ... the new course is part of the overhaul of GCSEs and A LevelsCredit: Getty Images

Lead developer Richard Genn said: “Climate change, diminishing resources and failing energy security are amongst the most critical issues facing the world today.

"Planet Earth didn't come with a user guide, so it's vital that we equip the current generation of students with the right knowledge and skills."

 New topics ... the course will also cover climate change and energy supplies
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New topics ... the course will also cover climate change and energy suppliesCredit: Getty Images

"Environmental science is a rapidly developing subject, and technology plays a crucial role"