Energy Resource Sustainability

Catalog description

This course applies concepts from earth, biological, chemical, and environmental sciences to examine the formation, extraction, and use of energy resources. It explores patterns of energy consumption and the natural resources required to produce and utilize different energy sources. Emphasis is placed on the sustainability of energy systems, including the environmental impacts of energy extraction and use, with particular attention to climate change. The course begins with foundational earth science principles used to identify fossil fuels, nuclear, and hydrogen energy sources, and then transitions to renewable energy systems such as solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, and bioenergy. Students will also evaluate the effects of energy development on natural resources and ecosystems. The course develops a scientific framework for understanding and addressing real-world energy challenges