Environmental Engineering

General learning outcomes This course introduces you to economic perspectives on modern environmental issues. We will study economic theories related to natural resources, with an emphasis on the strengths and weaknesses of alternative viewpoints. You will learn that economic objectives do not necessarily conflict with environmental goals, and that markets can be harnessed to improve environmental quality. We will also discuss the limitations of economic analysis to provide policy guidance on environmental issues. Specific learning outcomes Knowledge and understanding skill At the end of the course the students will have acquired both theoretical knowledge as well as knowledge on specific applications including renewable and non- renewable resources, with a specific focus on circular bioeconomy. By the end of the course, students will be able to express an informed view regarding the potential of economics to help societies achieve their environmental goals. Applying knowledge and understanding skill At the end of the course the students are able to identify actions for improving environmental quality and promoting a sound sustainable transition. They are able to assess and define policy measures based on the knowledge acquired throughout the course. They apply to real case studies models and theories with specific reference to circular bioeconomy. Making judgement skill The students exercise their making judgement skill by means of the preparation of a power point presentation based on a real case study, to which apply theories and models presented during the course. Communication skill The students exercise their communication skill during the presentations, projected to the whole classroom. Moreover, the preparation of the ppt presentation involves communication, in textual and graphical form, to present orally to the class. Learning skill The students exercise their self-learning skill by tackling the analysis of sustainability assessment with a focus on LCA and S-LCA methodologies. This analysis requires adapting general theoretical concepts to specific case studies especially for the bioeconomy sector.