Introduction

This course addresses the growing concerns about climate change, carbon footprints, and energy production, clarifying common misconceptions and misunderstandings. It explores various forms of energy production, their environmental impacts, waste management challenges, and global sustainability issues. The program is designed to keep organizational staff informed and prepared for transitioning towards a low-carbon future. Workshops, DVD presentations, and classroom exercises enhance learning and practical understanding.

Objectives

By the end of this seminar, participants will be able to:

• Understand the different types of energy production, including their advantages, disadvantages, and cost implications, with reference to IPCC recommendations.
• Gain an in-depth perspective on sustainability and climate change.
• Calculate carbon footprints and assess environmental performance indicators (KPIs).
• Comprehend the importance of waste management and water availability in environmental planning.
• Learn about the Zero Waste concept and integrated waste management systems.
• Develop awareness of environmental ethics and international treaties relevant to energy and carbon management.

Target Audience

• Environmental engineers and specialists
• Energy managers and sustainability coordinators
• HSE professionals (Health, Safety & Environment)
• Corporate managers responsible for sustainability initiatives
• Consultants and staff involved in energy, environmental compliance, and carbon reduction programs

Outlines

Day 1: Energy Overview

• Seminar introduction and overview
• Key definitions
• Forms of energy for electricity production: positives and negatives
  • Fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal)
  • Canadian oil sands and Gulf Coast oil
  • Geothermal
• DVD presentation
• Classroom exercises

Day 2: Alternative and Emerging Energy Technologies

• Nuclear
• Hydro-electric
• Biomass
• Combined cycle
• Wind energy
• Fuel cells
• Electrochemical (batteries)
• Emerging technologies
• DVD presentation
• Classroom exercises

Day 3: Carbon Footprints & Environmental Risk

• Calculating carbon footprints
• Key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Environmental risks
• ISO 18001 overview
• DVD presentation
• Classroom exercises

Day 4: Sustainability and Water Management

• Greenhouse gases overview
• Sustainability issues
• International environmental treaties
• Water availability and water banking
• Classroom exercises

Day 5: Climate Change & Low Carbon Strategies

• Climate change significance for Gulf Coast countries
• Integrated waste management systems
• Waste disposal and Zero Waste concept
• Environmental ethics
• Transitioning to a low-carbon future
• Generic recommendations for “greening” your organization
• Complete course review