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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2021 - 2022

Module Title
Module Code
School

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 15
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

The overall aim of this module is to provide the learner with insight into the opportunities (and challenges) of implementing clean technologies in an industrial context, to achieve and more sustainable approach to resource and energy use and pollution control. Three themes run through the module. First, the development of waste management strategies from implementing circular economy strategies, through to waste treatment options for recycling, biological and thermal treatment. Second, the decarbonisation of the energy sector, through efficiency solutions and the adoption of new renewable technologies such as solar, photovoltaics, hydro, wave, wave and biomass. Finally, the options for water and wastewater treatment and supply is explored. The module will seek to contextualise these technologies in a business or industrial setting.

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify and define key waste management methodologies; compare and contrast key methodologies against the practice within their workplace.
2. Understand the role of environmental tools such as life cycle assessment, waste audit or a benchmarking exercise to reduce waste generation within an organisation.
3. Develop a critical awareness of emerging technological and market trends, enabling them develop a strategic roadmap for clean technologies within an organisation.
4. Critically evaluate the key issues in the production, management, and usage of water and to communicate the outcomes effectively.
5. Demonstrate knowledge of energy and power related concepts and the supply/demand requirements of organisations.
6. Critically assess Wind, Solar, Ocean, Geothermal, Hydro and Bio Energy system performance and design
7. Perform a quantitative analysis of the costs of renewable energy projects
8. Evaluate the political, legislative, commercial and investment trends and developments in renewable energy technology
9. Demonstrate an in depth understanding of the interdependencies of their organisation between energy, waste and water resources on the one hand and the environment on the other hand.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Tutorial10Loop Classes
Online activity45Online discussion
Assignment Completion150Assignments preparation - 3 assignments
Independent Study170Studying texts, reading articles, learning course materials
Total Workload: 375

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment% Examination Weight%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Paul T. Williams: 2005, Waste treatment and disposal, J. Wiley & Sons, Hoboken, N.J., 9780470849132
  • MacKay David: 2012, Sustainable Energy Without the Hot Air, UIT Cambridge Ltd,
  • Ayres & Ayres: 2010, Crossing the Energy Divide: Moving from Fossil Fuel Dependence to a Clean-Energy Future,, 1/E, Pearson,
  • Nathanson, J.A. and Schneider, R.A.: 2015, Basic environmental technology: water supply, waste management, and pollution control., 6th Edition, Prentice Hal, 9780132840149
Other Resources

None
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