We live in a world that is built by engineers: from the Golden Gate Bridge to our energy system to the smartphones in our pockets, engineers have caused huge improvements in our lives. Unfortunately, engineering has also been responsible for massive environmental degradation, from eutrophication, to resource depletion, to climate change. Engineering has traditionally been about controlling nature to improve human lives, but in this age of environmental crisis, it is imperative that we, as engineers, learn to work within the boundaries of nature to ensure a sustainable future for us all.
Through guest lectures, case studies, group discussions, and a real-world design challenge, students will learn about how good engineering with appropriate technology can be used to support underserved communities while also preserving natural resources for future generations.