Ecological Engineering
Course code: WEO – PhDC01
Credits points (ECTS): 3
Lecturers in charge: Dr. Nguyen Thanh Hien, Dr. Pham Le Anh
Description of the course:
This course carries 3 ECTS and consists of one theoretical part and one practical project focusing on the application of ecological principles to natural resource management and problem-solving.
Objectives of the course:
This course aims to provide students with fundamental information on i) Ecosystems and their services by describing the biotic and abiotic components, interactions and physical drivers that define major ecosystem functioning; ii) An overview of how ecosystems are engineered and managed by getting insight into principles of ecological engineering and design of sustainable ecosystems; iii) Particular application of ecological engineering in the restoration and management of ecosystems (wetlands, rivers and streams, lakes and reservoirs, coastal areas, etc.)
ELOs:
Upon completing the course students will be able to
- Understand and describe important physical, chemical, and biological processes that affect ecosystem integrity;
- Apply knowledge of ecology, mathematics and engineering in finding solutions for environmental issues and management;
- Understand and use modern techniques, skills, and engineering tools for engineering practice;
- Identify, design, and conduct experiments as well as analyze and interpret data.
Reading Materials:
- Jorgensen, S.E., Applications in Ecological Engineering, Elsevier 2009, 393 pp. ISBN: 978 0 444 53448 4
Gradings:
| – Literature presentation | 10% |
| – Individual assignment | 20% |
| – Ecological Engineering Design | 20% |
| – Final exam | 50% |
Contents of the course:
- Introduction to ecological engineering
- Ecology and Ecosystem concept
- Ecological design principles
- Ecosystem services and Energy fluxes
- Water budgets and fluxes
- Design Project Intro and Team Selection
- Aquatic ecosystem remediations
- Terrestrial ecosystem remediations
- Ecological–social impacts: Payment for ecosystem services
Contact: Dr. Nguyen Thanh Hien, via nguyen-thanh.hien@usth.edu.vn or by appointment