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Mini Case Scenarios
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Air pollution is the leading cause of environmental death in Canada, with an estimated 15,000 deaths per year as the result of poor air quality. Reduced air quality increases the likelihood of cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, asthma, lung disease and ultimately premature death. While oil and gas exploration directly contribute to reduced air quality, there are also several other contributors, such as wildfire smoke, pathogens from flooding, increased particle matter in the air from drought, and prolonged air pathogen seasons (pollen. Furthermore, in 2016 it is estimated that the overall health burden because of air quality sicknesses and deaths was $120 billion (CAD), which is “equivalent to approximately 6% of Canada’s GDP”...
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Now that so many individuals are working from home long-term due to changes made from the pandemic, company’s sustainability goals should extend to their employee’s home offices. Due to the time spent in the pandemic, there have been many technological advances made to ensure working from home is a seamless process. Employees have grown comfortable with this work environment and now prefer it over going into the office. Working remote is more sustainable for the environment as it reduces gas emissions and avoids the operation of large office buildings that consume a lot of energy...
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Off-grid and decentralized energy systems are crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), which aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all (United Nations, 2015). These energy systems play a vital role in providing electricity to remote areas that are not connected to the main power grid, thereby improving energy access and empowering underserved communities. Off-grid solutions, such as mini-grids and standalone systems, offer numerous benefits and contribute to sustainable development...
Discussion Topics
- Should energy access become a human right?
- What are the impacts of energy overconsumption on our environment?
- Discuss the importance of energy access in eradicating poverty and promoting sustainable development.
- Discuss the concept of the energy poverty gap and its implications for communities and countries. Explore the factors contributing to the gap, including income disparities, geographical location, and energy infrastructure limitations.
- How does energy poverty hinder progress in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities?
- Discuss the potential of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydro, in improving energy access for underserved communities.
- What are the benefits of renewable energy in promoting energy security, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and creating job opportunities.
- Discuss the importance of supportive regulatory frameworks, financial incentives, and capacity-building programs in advancing renewable energy adoption.
- What strategies should be used for accelerating the renewable energy transition and the role of governments, private sector, and international cooperation?
- How do smart grids, energy storage, and digital technologies play a role in advancing the energy sector?
Assessment Ideas
- Position Paper: As a public health specialist, focus on the importance of clean cooking solutions in achieving SDG 7 and improving public health. Discuss the benefits of transitioning from traditional biomass cooking methods to clean alternatives, and suggest policies to promote the adoption of cleaner cooking technologies.
- Research Paper: Research strategies for electrifying rural and remote areas that are often left out of mainstream energy systems. Discuss the role of mini-grids, standalone systems, and community engagement in expanding energy access to these regions.
- Case Study Analysis: Provide students with a case study that highlights a specific renewable energy project or initiative. Ask them to critically analyze the case study, evaluate its outcomes, and identify key factors contributing to its success or challenges.
- Policy Brief: Analyze an existing energy policy or regulation and evaluate its effectiveness in promoting affordable and clean energy. Assess the policy's alignment with SDG 7 targets, consider stakeholder perspectives, and propose recommendations for policy improvements.
- Group Presentation: Develop an energy transition plan for a specific region or country. Analyze the existing energy mix, assess the potential for renewable energy sources, and propose strategies for transitioning to a more sustainable and affordable energy system.
- Data Analysis and Recommendations: Conduct an energy efficiency audit of a building, organization, or industrial process. Assess energy consumption patterns, identify potential areas for improvement, and propose strategies for enhancing energy efficiency. Present audit findings, recommendations for energy-saving measures, and estimate potential energy and cost savings.
- Communications Strategy: Engage students in a stakeholder dialogue and negotiation exercise focused on energy access and clean energy development. Assign each student a specific stakeholder role (e.g., government representative, community leader, energy company executive) and challenge them to engage in a simulated negotiation process to reach a consensus on energy access goals and clean energy development strategies.
Additional Resources
Faculty Subject Matter Experts
You may wish to contact one of the following departments who may have subject matter experts in this area:
Environmental Studies ()
Experiential Learning Contact
Christina Dinsmore (pronouns: she/her)
Associate Director, Experiential Learning & Programming
asc.el@queensu.ca
- Brady Seals, A.K. Gas Stoves: Health and Air Quality Impacts and Solutions. 2020 [cited 2023; Available from: https://rmi.org/insight/gas-stoves-pollution-health/.
- Health Canada. Health Impacts of Air Pollution in Canada: Estimates of morbidity and premature mortality outcomes – 2021 Report. 2021 [cited 2023; Available from: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/publications/healthy-living/health-impacts-air-pollution-2021.html.
- Canada, E.a.C.C. Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators: Greenhouse gas emissions. 2022 [cited 2023; Available from: https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/eccc/documents/pdf/cesindicators/ghg-emissions/2022/ghg-emissions-en.pdf.
- Berry, P., & Schnitter, R. (Eds.). . Health of Canadians in a Changing Climate: Advancing our Knowledge for Action. 2022 [cited 2023 Available from: https://changingclimate.ca/site/assets/uploads/sites/5/2022/02/CCHA-REPORT-EN.pdf.