CIV173   Engineering Sustainability   (10 credits)

Description

This module presents the drivers for global change, the systemic nature of global systems and how these will influence Civil and Structural Engineering over the next few decades.The primary routes for Civil and Structural Engineers to influence how humanity can thrive whilst working within the planetary boundaries are driven through a better understanding of energy and resources (materials and water).It is projected that by 2050 the human population will be 10 billion with over 75% concentrated in urban and megacity areas. Demand for food and fuel will double, demand for clean water will increase by more than 50% and the global economy will quadruple - and all of this whilst mitigating and adapting to climate change and working within the carrying capacity of our natural systems. Engineering solutions to create the civil engineering infrastructure for society to live in must navigate this complex and rapidly changing set of social goals. Concepts and introductory analysis methods for designing sustainable engineering solutions will be developed and illustrated through specific areas of civil engineering application: water systems, energy systems and the built environment.

Reading List