Abstract
ABSTRACTLife cycle assessment (LCA) is a method of assessing the environmental impacts of the manufacture and use of a product or provision of a service such as waste management. LCAs are based on quantitative science, but softer skills are also required in interpreting the results. Therefore, LCA provides an ideal opportunity for students to develop and apply both quantitative and qualitative skills in order to address complex real-world problems. In this research a simplified spreadsheet LCA tool was produced for students to assess the environmental impacts of a waste management system. Detailed feedback from face to face and distance-learning students were positive about the tool, with students welcoming the detail provided in the results and the use of a practical example to help their learning. In conclusion, LCA is an effective way of encouraging environmental and engineering students to develop and apply a wide range of transferable skills.
Highlights
Graduates in environmental engineering and environmental management, at MSc/MEng level, need to develop knowledge, understanding and practical/professional skills in many discipline areas (Nyström et al 2015; Richter et al 2009)
The students highlighted how the model had been beneficial in providing solutions to the waste management problem, but they felt that they needed to carry out more work to evaluate and defend their conclusions
The tool is widely applicable in predicting the environmental impacts that are likely from using a product or service
Summary
Graduates in environmental engineering and environmental management, at MSc/MEng level, need to develop knowledge, understanding and practical/professional skills in many discipline areas (Nyström et al 2015; Richter et al 2009) They are required to appreciate the complex interactions between chemical, physical and biological processes and understand the interactions between these processes and the environment (Weber et al, 2014). Employers often refer to the ‘professional maturity’ of students in addition to specific single skill sets when commenting on the importance of recruiting postgraduates These transferable skills for employment are commonly problem-based, focussing on the logic and reasoning of decision-making as opposed to single, correct answers as the outcome. LCA is ideally suited to problem-based learning activities where students become familiar with open-ended projects
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