Teaching the Environmental Impact of Industrial Processes

Abstract

Concerns about the environmental impact of industrial processes will likely continue to increase in the future as global population grows, the demand for engineering-related goods and services expands, and economic development increases. In this paper, a recently developed course on the environmental impact of industrial processes is described, which is suitable for engineers in mechanical and other engineering fields and for others working in industry and technology. The course concerns such topics as industry—environmental interactions, industrial ecology, environmental concerns, life-cycle assessment, industrial process residues and design for environment. Two comprehensive case studies and a major student project are included in the course. The course has been offered twice. Based on the feedback received, the course has been successful in meeting its objectives of increasing student knowledge and appreciation of the environmental impact of industrial processes, and has been considered worthwhile by students.