Solving Energy and Environmental Problems
Introduction
About the Module
This module explores the current energy and environmental problems the world is facing, by critically evaluating the main causes and finding ways to alleviate and solve them. Key topics include energy conservation, alternative or renewable energy, climate change, carbon footprint, decarbonization, pollution, forestation/reforestation and science-based policy making. Students will be equipped to make an immediate difference not just through their awareness but also by translating their knowledge into concrete action.
MODES OF INSTRUCTION
Lectures/seminars, group discussions, student research, out-of-classroom excursions, class presentations, individual reports.
Students will be advised on reference materials and books/chapters to read to prepare for the seminars.
Syllabus
Syllabus
Weeks 1-6
Introduction to the module and participants, clarification of assessment methods, group dynamics, Overall survey of the scope of this module and the topics planned.
Energy problems:
Energy crisis, global situation
Reducing energy consumption and wastage
Energy conservation
Alternative energy sources, Renewable energy (some of which produce toxic waste leading to Environmental problems)
[Submission of individual reports on Energy problems]
Weeks 7-12
Environmental problems:
(These are the visible results of Energy problems)
Climate change, Global warming, Causes and consequences
Concept of carbon footprint
Methods of Decarbonization
Rising sea levels and atmospheric temperature
Pollution, Toxic materials, Biodegradable materials
Recycling waste (metals, plastics)
Deforestation/Reforestation
Access to clean water, Public health
[Submission of individual reports on Environmental problems]
Week 13
Finale – Summary of lessons learnt, Feedback session
[A few lecture slots in the semester will be devoted to Guest speakers who will speak on relevant topics with Q n A session.]
[Two weeks of the semester will be devoted to visiting relevant companies and installations.]
Assessment
Assessment
|
(i) Weekly individual class participation |
15% |
|
(ii) Weekly group class presentations |
35% |
|
(iii) Individual Mid-term report on How to solve Energy problems (max 2000 words) |
20% |
|
(iv) Individual End-of-term report on How to solve Environmental problems (max 3000 words) |
30% |
|
Total for CA: |
100% |
Schedules
Week 1 (Energy Topic 1 – Energy crisis)
Introduction to the module, participants, contents, pedagogy and assessment, Energy crisis, severity and efforts in various countries, Energy conservation to reduce total consumption
Week 2 (Energy Topic 2 – Alternative energy)
Exploring alternative energy sources, renewable energy and their feasibility, studying the downside (eg. Disposal of Li batteries and other toxic elements), leading to Environmental Problems
Week 3
Guest speaker(s) on relevant topics with Q n A session
Week 4
Group presentations on Energy crisis (Seminar 1 is for 2 groups, Seminar 2 is for remaining 2 groups)
Week 5 Visit to a relevant company
Week 6
Group presentations on Alternative energy (Seminar 1 is for 2 groups, Seminar 2 is for remaining 2 groups)
[Recess week] Submission of individual reports
Week 7 (Environmental Topic 1 – Carbon footprint)
Concept of carbon footprint, Ways to measure carbon footprint, Decarbonization, Concept of Frugal engineering (reducing the complexity and cost of manufacturing goods), Deforestation and causes, Measures to reduce deforestation, National efforts in Reforestation
Week 8 (Environmental Topic 2 – Climate change)
Introduction to environmental problems, Identification of environmental problems, eg.Climate change, Global warming, Causes and consequences, Rising levels of carbon dioxide, Rising atmospheric temperature, Rising sea levels
Week 9
Guest speaker(s) on relevant topics with Q n A session
Week 10
Group presentations on Carbon footprint (Seminar 1 is for 2 groups, Seminar 2 is for remaining 2 groups)
Week 11 Visit to a relevant company
Week 12
Group presentations on Climate change (Seminar 1 is for 2 groups, Seminar 2 is for remaining 2 groups)
Week 13
Motivational talk, Students/groups will provide feedback and further reflections on what they have learnt and how the module can be improved. Submission of individual reports.
Instructor
Instructor
Emeritus Professor Seah Kar Heng
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Email: mpeskh@nus.edu.sg