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Mini Case Scenarios
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In 2017, Cleantech and Software-as-a-Service (SAAS) start-ups were running the game. There was little to no support for innovators who wanted to leverage scientific breakthroughs to design better hardware systems that could combat global problems. And where there were organizations that could support, they were disconnected, unsure of real start-up needs, and had conflicting ideas about what Cleantech means to them – it was like the wild west...
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Singapore is a renowned location for multinational companies to come and put in place a regional headquarter. The country is in a prime location with lots of talented individuals, great business districts, incredible infrastructure, a stable economy, and government. Some of these successful companies that have stationed in Singapore include BMW, Google, General Motors, Facebook, and more. This array of businesses stimulates Singapore’s economy and is a huge reason why Singapore is the leading country in the world for the least risky investments and is considered an economic powerhouse...
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Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9) seeks to promote infrastructure development that is resilient, inclusive, and sustainable. Infrastructure plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, improving living standards, and fostering social well-being. However, inadequate infrastructure, especially in developing countries, hinders progress in various sectors. SDG 9 aims to address these challenges by mobilizing resources, promoting sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation...
Discussion Topics
- What benefits might art installations serve for the local community?
- How might the redevelopment of underutilized lands help to address homelessness in a sustainable and scalable way?
- What impact can transportation policies have on community health care systems?
- What constraints do local government bodies face when developing, and subsequently implementing, transportation policies?
- How might transportation systems positively impact marginalized communities?
- How might we encourage our community to positively engage in alternative housing options for the homeless population in Kingston?
- How might alternative housing options, such as tiny homes, have an impact on local health services?
- With a good percentage of the working population now accustomed to working online, how might we best use land allocated to rural business parks?
- How might we identify alternative housing solutions that meet the needs of our local community?
- In what ways might the Kingston Police Department leverage technology to lower crime in the community?
Assessment Ideas
- Position Paper: Advocate for the integration of sustainable infrastructure practices in urban planning and development. Discuss how resilient transportation networks, green spaces, and energy-efficient buildings contribute to creating cities that are better equipped to handle the challenges of the future.
- Research Paper: Analyze the sustainability of a specific supply chain within the industry and infrastructure sectors. Assess the social, environmental, and economic aspects of the supply chain, identify potential risks and opportunities, and propose strategies for enhancing its sustainability.
- Case Study Analysis: Provide students with a case study that highlights a specific technological innovation or breakthrough related to industry and infrastructure. Ask them to analyze the innovation, assess its impact on sustainable development, and evaluate the potential challenges and opportunities associated with its implementation.
- Policy Brief: Prepare a policy brief on a specific sustainable infrastructure issue. Research the issue, analyze the current policies and practices, identify gaps or challenges, and propose recommendations for policy improvement.
- Group Presentation: Develop a plan for creating a smart and sustainable city. Consider aspects such as energy efficiency, transportation systems, digital connectivity, and sustainable urban planning. Present your smart city plan, including innovative technologies and strategies for improving the quality of life and reducing the environmental footprint.
- Data Analysis and Recommendations: Conduct a sustainable manufacturing audit for a specific industry or company. Analyze the company's production processes, resource consumption, waste management practices, and environmental impact. Identify areas for improvement and propose sustainable manufacturing strategies.
- Communications Strategy: Create a communication strategy that focuses on creating digital platforms that connect entrepreneurs, researchers, and policymakers. These platforms could facilitate the exchange of innovative ideas, highlight successful case studies, and provide resources for turning innovative concepts into reality.
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:
Global Development (devsgrad@queensu.ca)
Experiential Learning Contact
Christina Dinsmore (pronouns: she/her)
Associate Director, Experiential Learning & Programming
asc.el@queensu.ca
- Adapted with permission from the Nov 2021 Hackathon Sponsor Project Brief (Centre for Social Impact, Queen’s University)