VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Tackling Environmental Problems I
Umweltproblemlösen I
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:47:02
Abstract
Each year in the case study we analyse a different topic from the field of sustainable development and develop solutions to it.
Objective
Students are able: - carry out research on a given topic and present the results in a structured report which (a) shows the state of knowledge and (b) the need for knowledge and action (UPL I). - to integrate knowledge of diverse perspectives in a qualitative systems model, to identify problems and to suggest possible solutions from a specific stakeholder's perspective (UPL II). - name the different roles within a group, explain the role(s) they are suited for, self-organise in groups, identify problems of collaboration and constructively address the problems (UPL I and II).
Content
In the first semester the students compile what is known about the case topic, its principles and challenges. Each group of students makes an inquiry to a given part of the overall problem. The inquiry includes a thematic as well as stakeholder analysis. The results are written in a report and presented at an internal conference. During synthesis week, which takes place during semester break, the results of the different part inquiries are integrated in a qualitative system model. The students identify specific problems and develop solutions. In the second semester, students work independently and in exchange with stakeholders on previously identified problems. They develop a sustainability project with concrete measures that they could implement voluntarily in the third semester. The course concludes with the presentation of the student projects on the "Market of Measures". Most of the time students work independently in groups. Tutors support the students in key steps. Introductions are given for: - The overall topic of the case study (by external experts), - Inquiry, scientific writing and managing references (by experts of ETH library), - Role behaviour and collaboration in groups, - Preparing reports, posters and presentations, - Qualitative system modelling (SystemQ), - Developing solutions (design thinking, Checklands' soft systems methodology, sustainability assessment).
Resources
Lecture Notes
Tutors will compile the case study dossier on the basis of the student reports.
Literature
Methodological documentation will be made available on Moodle during the case study together with the relevant background literature.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise |
Umweltproblemlösen I
zusätzliche obligatorische Termine:
Exkursion findet ganztägig voraussichtlich am 6. oder 13. November statt.
Seminarwoche: 3.-7. Januar 2022 (ganztägig).
|
|
4 h weekly |
Offered In
-
Environmental Sciences Bachelor (Students can choose between one Bachelor thesis of 10KP or two Bachelor theses of 5KP each. In principle, all professors and lecturers involved in the teaching of the Environmental Sciences degree programme are entitled to supervise a Bachelor's thesis (BA). BA in the area of social sciences and humanities can only be supervised by lecturers who teach in this area. The same applies to BA in the field of natural sciences and technology. If the thesis is supervised by a person who does not teach in the Environmental Sciences degree programme or who does not have ETH lecturer status, then the student has to fill in the "Form for supervisors of a Bachelor thesis who do not teach in the Environmental Sciences degree programme" Link)
-