HONOR 2750 - Energy, Water, Air, and Metals: Sustainable Use and Development

Modern society has utilized the vast fossil fuel and metal reserves of the Earth to increase both its technological sophistication and the standard of living for its residents. However, this progress has come at a price. Access to clean water and air is no longer guaranteed for millions of citizens and regional/global conflicts have arisen as countries attempt to control the raw materials which fuel our society. This course will explore the environmental pressures exerted by continued economic development and evaluate various technologies and strategies aimed at creating a more sustainable society. To the extent possible, discussions and student projects will focus on locally relevant and timely issues.