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MPhil in Engineering for Sustainable Development

global challenges, engineering solutions
 

Investigation of Ecological footprinting as a measure of sustainability: its application to educational institutions

Emmanuel Bekoe

Investigation of Ecological footprinting as a measure of sustainability: its application to educational institutions

Recent estimates suggest that on a global scale we are now using resources faster than they can be replenished in nature. To assess the sustainability of our consumption of resources and the regenerative capacity of nature is the Ecological Footprint methodology. The suitability of using this methodology to assess sustainability is critically scrutinised by reviewing literature and personal application to an educational institution and compared with other sustainability indicators. Its strengths and weaknesses are presented and the way forward to overcome its weaknesses drawn up.  Recommendations are also made in reducing the footprint of the educational institution.
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Course Overview

Context

The need to engage in better problem definition through careful dialogue with all stakeholder groups and a proper recognition of context.

Perspectives

An ability to work with specialists from other disciplines and professional groups acknowledging that technical innovation and business skills also must be understood, nurtured and combined as precursors to the successful implementation of sustainable solutions.

Change

An understanding of mechanisms for managing change in organisations so future engineers are equipped to play a leadership role.

Tools

An awareness of a range of assessment frameworks, sustainability metrics and methodologies such as Life Cycle Analysis, Systems Dynamics, Multi-Criteria Decision making and Impact Assessment.