This course describes opportunities for reducing emissions, including practical and low-cost changes in operations.
This online engineering PDH course presents an overview of current knowledge about greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the construction industry. If a large number of small emissions sources within the construction industry were to adopt energy- and climate-conscious practices, aggregate emissions could be reduced substantially. This course describes opportunities for reducing emissions, including practical and low-cost changes in operations. Because consistency and clarity in calculating emissions are important for comparing emissions within and across sectors and for companies to plan and assess progress, the course describes approaches to calculating company-specific gas emissions. Finally the course presents information on GHG inventory protocols that are publicly available and frequently used, and examines the attributes of a protocol that would be useful for companies in the construction sector.
Topics: Breakdown of emissions sources Comparing emissions estimates Subsector emissions Emissions intensity Reducing emissions through reducing fuel use Reducing emissions through conserving electricity Reducing emissions through reducing impacts of construction materials Calculating company-specific greenhouse gas emissions.
Intended Audience: This course is intended for civil and construction engineers concerned with the environmental impact of construction activities.
Publication Source: This course is based on the Environmental Protection Agency document, “Potential for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the Construction Sector,” as part of the EPA’s Sector Strategies Program, February, 2009.
Civil Engneering faculty member for 27 years
Dr. Rossow is a graduate of the University of Michigan with B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Illinois. He taught civil engineering for over 35 years, including six years at Washington University in St. Louis and 29 years at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he was the Chair of the Civil Engineering Department for ten years. His areas of expertise are in civil engineering and mechanics. He has consulted for various organizations, including government agencies and an international offshore drilling company. He has published numerous technical journal articles and technical reports for a variety of governmental agencies and private sector organizations. Mark P. Rossow, PE, PhD Licensed Professional Engineer in State of Illinois License No. 062.040560 Dr. Rossow is a graduate of the University of Michigan with B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees. He taught civil engineering for over 35 years, including six years at Washington University in St. Louis and 29 years at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he was the Chair of the Civil Engineering Department for ten years. His areas of expertise are in civil engineering and mechanics. He has consulted for various organizations, including government agencies and an international offshore drilling company. He has published many journal articles and technical reports.
