Staff Profile
John Court
Visiting Fellow
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| Fax: | +61 2 9850 7972 |
| Email: | jdcourt@ozemail.com.au |
Profile
After graduating from the University of NSW in chemical engineering I worked for 10 years in the Australian and US chemical industries. I joined the NSW state agency for environmental protection in 1970. For the next 22 years I was actively involved in many environmental developments such as research into photochemical smog and fine particulate pollution, the introduction of modern vehicle emissions controls, tightening of controls on industry (mining, smelting, agricultural and heavy manufacturing) and upgrading Sydney's sewage treatment system. While so engaged I graduated with a Master of Environmental Science degree.
Engagement with all levels of government around Australia aroused my interest in the functioning of government in a federal system 'from the inside'. When I left the NSW agency to try my hand at private consultancy I was head of the water and waste division.
As an independent consultant I have worked for governments and industry in Australia and Indonesia on diverse projects ranging from policy formulation and environmental management to equipment design.
Having come late to university teaching through the GSE in 1992, I enjoy helping the next generation of professional leaders to appreciate the joys and challenges of the theory and practice of environmental protection.
My personal interests include the classics, ancient history, philosophy and theology. I hold BA and MA degrees in related aspects.
Teaching
I co-convene with Dr Vlad Strezov GSE 805 Air and Water Quality and GSE 829 Pollution Control and Waste Management and occasionally lecture in decision-making, management and planning subjects in the GSE and other tertiary institutions.
Since 1998 I have been engaged with other GSE and Macquarie staff on extensive tailored training of local government officers in the application of environmental law and science to their fields of responsibility
Research Interests
The management of the environment by governments interacting in a federal system; application of technical systems to environmental problems.