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Course content

Industrial ecology is the study of materials and energy flows i product systems and society, the environmental impacts of these flows, and the influence of technology and socio-economic factors. This course introduces strategies for and methods for quantitative analysis and implementation of industrial ecology, in four parts. Part A defines industrial ecology and presents the material and energy turnover in society. Part B presents the theoretical foundation for industrial ecology, including systems theory, thermodynamics and biology/ecology, and design principles in industrial ecology. Part C gives a thorough introduction to quantitative analytical methods, such as material flows analysis, risk assessment, energy and exergy analysis, life cycle analysis, input-output analysis, cost-benefit analysis, and eco-efficiency analysis. Part D covers problems and methods when implementing industrial ecology in policy, and in private and public sectors. Students who want to work on more quantitative methods are offered a set of exercises providing this, while students who seek a more perspective understanding are offered to work on a semester essay.

Learning outcome

The course shall give students an overview knowledge of theory, analytical methodology and practical challenges in the field of industrial ecology. Emphasis is given to the understanding of how environmental assessment and improvements are carried out with support from systems analytical methods such as material flow analysis, risk analysis, life cycle analysis, energy analysis, costbenefit analysis and eco-efficiency analysis.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, seminars and project work in interdisciplinary groups. The course is taught in English. Portfolio assessment is the basis for the grade in the course. The portfolio includes a final written exam (50%) and exercises (50%). The results for the parts are given in %-scores, while the entire portfolio is assigned a letter grade. Postponed/repeated exams may be oral.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises in groups

Recommended previous knowledge

None.

Required previous knowledge

Course materials

Compendium/textbook H. Brattebø et al.: "Introduction to Industrial Ecology - Theory, Methods and Applications".