ARCH 530 : Introduction to Sustainability

This introductory course will examine the meaning, history, sources, context and strategic approaches towards sustainability as viewed through a design lens. To approach an understanding of sustainable design, however, one must first explore what it means to be sustainable and why it is of primary importance in today's world, especially in architecture and design. This course will take a macro approach toward sustainability by casting a broad net on what the operating principles and strategies of sustainable design should espouse. This course is not intended to create a detailed analysis of specific projects or energy models for high performance buildings. It is meant to introduce students to a number of sustainable strategies and to inculcate the necessity for their inclusion in all design.