Energy & Environment   

This course will deal with the issues of traditional and non-renewable energy sources such as crude oil, natural gas, coal and nuclear energy, as well as renewable energy sources like hydroelectricity, solar, ocean, geothermal and wind energy. Students will obtain a broad understanding of current resources, technologies and their limitations; and a realistic appreciation of what energy sources and technologies may be feasible in the future. Energy is one of the essential needs of a modern society. The scale of its use is closely associated with a society's prosperity and the quality of life that its members experience. However, it has become increasingly clear to all that the prevailing energy system, based on non-renewable sources is unlikely to be sustainable. As a result, the implementation of alternative energy systems have gained momentum in our high energy-consuming society over the last few decades. This course will provide a general overview of various energy sources both conventional and non-conventional. It will also assist students to assess critically the important current debates on energy and the environmental impacts of its generation, storage, transportation and use. No Textbook Required.

This course examines environmental management systems in compliance with environmental laws and regulations. The course introduces students to the concept of environmental management systems and their role in reducing overall environmental impacts in industry and business operations. The course provides students with an overview of the purpose of an EMS model, how companies adopt and implement them, and the overall framework of EMS models. The course also focuses on specific EMS models, including ISO 14001 systems, and teaches students about the auditing process as a management tool for environmental performance. No Textbook Required.

Students explore many facets of building green in the construction industry from a general contractor’s (builder’s) perspective. Students will gain an introductory knowledge of the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC), Net Zero Energy program and the various LEED Rating Systems with an emphasis on new construction. The significance of the elements of green construction, green procurement, and contracting for green construction as they relate to a contractor’s green strategy are addressed.