ENV 3500 Energy and Sustainable Technology

Modern human civilization depends upon energy to drive our machines, give us light, and regulate our thermal environment. Over the past century, the energy has largely come from fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas. Many scientists are concerned that the byproducts of fossil fuel combustion are leading to potentially catastrophic climatic change. This course will introduce students to global energy production and how energy is used to transform our world physically and culturally. Students will explore the opportunities and threats inherent in varied energy production, including fossil fuels and renewables, and evaluate historical, current, and future energy consumption rates. Students will contrast energy consumption habits of various cultures and work to use this understanding to develop and present more sustainable systems of living and production. Students will also evaluate energy policy, conservation and mitigation strategies. Prerequisite(s): ENV 1100 or ENV 1150
Credits: 3.0