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227-0803-00L 6 Credits BSC , MSC D-ITET , D-BAUG , D-INFK

Energy, Resources, Environment: Risks and Prospects

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Oliver Zenklusen, Dr. Thomas Flüeler

VVZ CR 3.8

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:22:56

Abstract

Multidisciplinary, interactive course focusing on the complexity of environmental and energy problems. Concepts of risk theory, decision science, long-term governance and environmental economics are applied to case studies related to energy transition and climate change. The course is designed for a multidisciplinary audience and as a training ground for critical thinking.

Objective

Develop capacities for addressing environmental problems, scrutinising proposed solutions and contributing to debates across disciplines. Analyse complex issues from different perspectives. Understand interactions between the environment, science and technology, society and economy. Develop skills in critical thinking, scientific writing and presenting.

Content

Following a multidisciplinary outline of current issues in environmental and energy policy as well as the concept of "messy problems”, the course introduces theoretical and analytical approaches including risk, sustainability, as well as elements of institutional design and environmental economics. Large parts of the course are dedicated to case studies and contributions from participants. These serve for applying concepts to concrete challenges and as starting points for debates. Topics include: energy transition, innovation, the potential of renewable energy, carbon markets, the future of nuclear energy, climate change and development policy, long-term issues in various fields, disaster risk, the use of non-renewable resources, as well as visions such as 2000-watt society.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Presentations and reader provided in electronic formats.

Literature

Reader provided in electronic formats.

General Information

Language: English
Levels: BSC , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: graded semester performance

Substantial contribution to the course on a selected topic. Format: essay and presentation.

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	Energy, Resources, Environment: Risks and Prospects This course will be offered for the last time in Spring 2023.	Thu 08:15-12:00 (HG D 5.2)	4 h weekly

Offered In

Environmental Engineering Bachelor
- Bachelor Studies (Programme Regulations 2010)
  - 6. Semester
    - Elective Blocks
      - Elective Block: Energy (At least 10KP must be achieved for the elective block: Energy.)
Computer Science Bachelor
- Minor Courses
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology Bachelor
- Electives (This is only a short selection. Other courses from the ETH course catalogue may be chosen. Please consult the "Richtlinien zu Projekten, Praktika, Seminare" (German only), published on our website ( ).)
  - Man-Technology-Environment Electives ("MTU")
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology Master
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2008)
  - Major Courses (A total of 42 CP must be achieved form courses during the Master Program. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Subjects of General Interest (These courses are suitable for several special fields. Please consult your tutor.)