Perspect On Sus Mat

Catalog description

This course provides students with a critical understanding of practicing responsible architecture and engineering from a materials and products perspective. It will cover the full range of complex issues involved in material selection and specification: critical health and environmental issues and life-cycle analysis. Using current evaluation tools (Athena, Pharos Lens, CSI Green Spec, and others) students will research materials and products according to cost, availability, and environmental performance criteria to include embodied energy, life-cycle LEED criteria such as salvaged, renewable, and environmentally benign materials or products with recycled-content. "Smart materials" will also be considered. The seminar will produce a first draft of green specifications for a generic project.