Sustainability and the Environment

Catalog description

This course examines the issues that encompass the new discipline of “sustainability”. The many definitions of sustainability are discussed and the goals of sustainability are defined. The course reviews the impacts of human activities on essential natural resources such as: flora and fauna, soil, water, air, land and energy sources. Fundamental factors such as carrying capacity, ecology, conservation, climate change, pollution, population, development, economics, manufacturing, transportation, agriculture, policy and environmental ethics are discussed in the context of sustainability. Readings assigned will reflect on the complex relationships that make sustainability such a difficult goal and will examine various diagnostics tools and sustainability best practices. 3-0-3 Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: