Module Catalogue 2026/27

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

This module aims to equip students with the knowledge and technical competencies to embed sustainability into structural and geotechnical engineering practices and to critically evaluate the environmental performance of buildings and infrastructure, developing pathways toward net zero and circularity in the built environment. through the application of low-carbon construction materials, sustainable retrofit strategies, lifecycle carbon assessment, and relevant policies and certification frameworks.

Outline Of Syllabus

• Principles of sustainable construction
• Low-carbon structural materials and systems
• Retrofit engineering techniques
• Lifecycle carbon analysis
• Policy and certification for sustainability

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

•       Apply the principles and objectives of sustainable construction in structural and
geotechnical contexts
•       Evaluate key sustainability frameworks including the circular economy, regenerative design,
and net zero targets
•       Distinguish between embodied and operational carbon in building and infrastructure systems
•       Analyse and compare low-carbon, renewable, and geotechnical construction materials
and systems
•       Understand the role of reuse, and retrofit strategies in reducing environmental impact
•       Critically assess the results of whole-life carbon assessments in construction projects,
considering the stages, boundaries, and implications, to inform material selection and
design decisions
•       Assess the impact of policies, standards, and certification frameworks on sustainable
engineering practice
•       Appreciate and apply the broader professional responsibilities of engineers in responding to climate
change, resource efficiency, and sustainable development goals

Intended Skill Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

•       Apply sustainability principles, including material selection and design strategies
•       Assess and compare the environmental performance of different structural systems using
lifecycle thinking
•       Develop retrofit and reuse proposals that incorporate structural integrity, sustainability,
and design adaptability
•       Conduct building-scale or component-scale carbon assessments
•       Implement carbon and material performance insights into informed design recommendations
•       Communicate complex sustainability concepts effectively
•       Writing and improving professional reports

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The teaching methods combine lectures, tutorials, structured learning, and project work to develop both technical understanding and applied skills in sustainable construction. Lectures introduce core concepts and frameworks, while tutorials allow students to apply knowledge through case studies and practical tasks. Structured guided learning reinforces key topics, and independent study supports critical thinking, problem-solving, and project development. This integrated approach ensures students achieve the intended learning outcomes.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The formative problem-solving exercises support students in practising lifecycle carbon calculations, sustainability assessments, and critical evaluation skills, encouraging active engagement and continuous learning.

The summative written examination assesses students’ comprehensive understanding of sustainable construction principles, materials, retrofit strategies, and policy frameworks, ensuring they can integrate technical knowledge and critically evaluate sustainability challenges. The summative coursework report develops students' ability to apply lifecycle carbon assessment methods, assess material and system sustainability, and produce professional technical reports, supporting outcomes related to data interpretation and critical analysis.

AHEP4:
The written examination maps to M1, M2, M4, and M7. The exam assesses students’ ability to apply engineering principles to sustainability challenges (M1), analyse complex issues such as lifecycle carbon and retrofit (M2), interpret relevant policies and certification frameworks (M4), and evaluate the environmental performance of construction systems (M7).

The individual report maps to M3, M5, M7, and M17. Students use computational or analytical tools to conduct carbon assessments (M3), develop improvement proposals for sustainability (M5), assess environmental impact of a building (M7), and communicate their analysis in a structured technical report (M17).

General Notes

N/A