Introduction to Environmental Studies (Live Online)

Overview

This course provides the fundamental concepts for students and/or professionals who are looking to understand the linkages between the environment, society, and the possible engineering solutions to protect our planet’s environment. The course aims to provide the foundational knowledge that would assist the students in choosing their future career paths in environmental studies at certification and undergraduate levels.

Topics/Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the successful students will have reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Show an understanding of the environmental aspects of engineering, sociology, and its impact on the society
• Understand basic definitions and concepts related to environmental engineering
• Demonstrate a basic understanding of the role played by environmental science in general and its engineering applications to shape society’s response to the environment
• Have a broad understanding of the relationship between the built environment and the natural environment
• Have a basic understanding of the environmental laws governing engineering practice in Canada
• Demonstrate global awareness of the critical role played by environmental engineering in shaping the future of the globe

Week-1: Environmental Science & Engineering

• Basic Definitions and concepts
• Social impact of environmental science
• Public health and safety concepts
• Ethics, Ecology and Social Responsibility

Week-2: Assessing Environmental Impact

• What is Environmental Impact Analysis?
• Various Types of Environmental Impact Analysis
• Risk Analysis in Environmental Studies
• Socioeconomic Impact of Environmental Analysis
• Ecosystem Risk Assessment

Week-3: Environmental Engineering

• Understanding Aquatic Ecology
• Water Pollution & Bio Degradation
• Aerobic and Anaerobic Decomposition
• Heavy metals and Toxic material classifications
• Impact of pollution on various water bodies (streams, rivers, oceans)

Week-4: Solid Waste Management

• Classification of municipal solid waste
• Techniques of solid waste management
• Landfills, Unprocessed Refuse, and land degradation
• Hazardous and Radioactive Waste
• Air pollution and weather studies

Week-5: Environmental Law & Society

• Canadian Federal law on Environment
• Environmental Sociology & Economics
• Career paths in environmental studies
• Group Project Presentations