The introductory theme course introduces the concept of sustainable development and discusses its implications within the context of energy policies and climate change. The Earth's energy balance and its carbon cycle are explained, and also their relationships with our climate. A brief assessment of energy technologies is provided. This includes both conventional energy technologies (such as fossil fuels) and renewable energy technologies such as solar energy, wind energy, bio-fuels (energy-food competition), clean fossils, nuclear energy (fission and fusion) and tidal and hydropower generation
Finally, we will discuss:
how climate policies (carbon trading, taxes, subsidies) affect the energy market.
are these policies effective and efficient?
who are the winners and losers?
what are the roles of developing countries, small island states, the EU, the US and China in the climate debate?
are the current and expected climate policies in line with the concept of sustainable development?
During the course you will perform laboratory experiments, and participate in case studies derived from projects at PriceWaterhouseCoopers. Additionally, we will organise site-visits to relevant institutions and companies in and outside Amsterdam.
