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ME52054: Science-based decision making

[Page last updated: 15 August 2024]

Academic Year: 2024/25
Owning Department/School: Department of Mechanical Engineering
Credits: 10 [equivalent to 20 CATS credits]
Notional Study Hours: 200
Level: Masters UG & PG (FHEQ level 7)
Period:
Semester 2
Assessment Summary: EXOB 100%
Assessment Detail:
  • Science-based decision making exam (EXOB 100%)
Supplementary Assessment:
Like-for-like reassessment (where allowed by programme regulations)
Requisites:
Learning Outcomes:
* Analyse quantitative and qualitative data in order to identify and appraise appropriate carbon reduction interventions

* Critique a given analysis using the appropriate scientific approach, identifying uncertainties and limitations

* Explain key carbon accounting principles taking a lifecycle approach

* Make recommendations appropriate to the context using a reporting style and format appropriate to the relevant stakeholders.

* Select and apply appropriate environmental modelling approaches for a given context, product or company


Synopsis: Develop a principled approach to make sound evidence-based decisions that inform sustainable product development and environmental activities in an organisation. Using a variety of qualitative and quantitative methods, you'll objectively appraise the impacts of carbon reduction interventions. You'll also explore the `cradle-to-grave' journey of a product and its potential social, economic, political, and climate impact. And you'll learn how to report and communicate results to decision makers.

Content: Measuring, calculating and reporting of carbon emissions including GHG scopes and lifecycle assessment. Key initiatives and developments in zero carbon such as Science Based targets, offsetting principles, GHG Scopes Considerations around GHG assessment (e.g. biogenic carbon, timing) Other metrics that are useful when appraising emissions reduction opportunities (e.g. environmental, social, financial impacts).

Course availability:

ME52054 is a Must Pass Unit on the following courses:

Department of Mechanical Engineering

ME52054 is Optional on the following courses:

School of Management

Notes:

  • This unit catalogue is applicable for the 2024/25 academic year only. Students continuing their studies into 2025/26 and beyond should not assume that this unit will be available in future years in the format displayed here for 2024/25.
  • Courses and units are subject to change in accordance with normal University procedures.
  • Availability of units will be subject to constraints such as staff availability, minimum and maximum group sizes, and timetabling factors as well as a student's ability to meet any pre-requisite rules.
  • Find out more about these and other important University terms and conditions here.