SYSTEMS THINKING

ENVIRST 215

An introduction to the dynamic and emerging transdisciplinary field of sustainability. A broad survey of the global sustainability science challenges and their potential solutions using an integrated social-environmental systems approach. Applies a sustainability and systems thinking lens to various topics, such as complexity, resilience, ecological literacy, global climate change, economics, food systems, energy, sustainable development, and social equity. Facilitates the exploration of complex interrelationships among contemporary environmental, social, and economic problems and the solutions to support more sustainable systems. Focuses on the skills, knowledge, and attitudes to implement sustainable practices and to enact sustainable development through sustainability science and education.

ENVIRST 326

Explores fundamentals of systems thinking and how to apply a systems-based approach to understanding and addressing sustainability issues ranging from climate change to environmental racism. Systems content is complemented with foundational skills in life cycle assessment (LCA), an inherently systems-based application of sustainability science that considers the full measure of resources used and waste created throughout the cradle-to-grave supply chain of a product or process. Life cycle and systems-based approaches are used to characterize both human and natural systems in local and global contexts. These approaches also will be integrated with sustainability concepts including the triple bottom line, industrial ecology, and the circular economy. Concepts include: life cycle stages, supply chains, stocks, flows, feedback loops, and unintended consequences.

EPD 669

Provides the opportunity to demonstrate ability to think globally, sustainably, and creatively. Gain real-world experience by applying theory, tools, and research to conceptualize, analyze, and design a solution to a real-world problem within a social and environmental context. Showcase the knowledge and analytical skills acquired, and integrate tools, science, and communication to address a community or industry need. Work with an industry mentor and customer throughout your project.

ENVIRST 417

Analyze the concept of sustainability through current trends, including energy, air and water resources, agriculture, environmental measurement and analysis, modeling, remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems, the built environment, transportation, ecology, conservation and global climate change.

ENVIRST 506

Systems modeling; applications to environmental problems; systems methods.