We are excited to introduce two new modules for the upcoming summer semester:
1. Digital Design for Sustainable Structures
This module focused on computational approaches to reduce the environmental impact of structural design. The course introduces methods to quantify and minimize the environmental footprint of buildings through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), digital modeling workflows, and optimization strategies applied to structural systems.
Particular attention is given to structural reuse, especially in steel structures, as a strategy to reduce embodied carbon and material consumption. Students will learn how to integrate environmental metrics into the design process and evaluate alternative structural solutions using digital tools.
The course combines theoretical lectures with project-based work sessions. During the module, students will develop an individual or pair-based project involving the re-design of an existing structural system, applying LCA-based evaluation, optimization methods, and reuse strategies.
By the end of the course, students will be able to integrate environmental assessment methods into structural design workflows and critically evaluate strategies for more sustainable structural systems.
The module is taught in English and begins on Monday, 11 May 2026, at 9.45 am.
Given the project-based structure of the course, in-person participation is strongly encouraged and envisaged.
2. Sustainable Civil Engineering and Sustainable Energy Systems
This module offers an integrated perspective on sustainability in Civil Engineering, with emphasis on environmental management, circular economy strategies, and advanced digital tools to foster resilient and resource-efficient infrastructure. In the face of climate change, resource scarcity, and the energy transition, Civil Engineering must adopt innovative approaches to ensure sustainable development. Students will examine principles of Environmental Management and Sustainable Design, focusing on strategies to reduce impacts across the life cycle of infrastructure projects. Circular Economy concepts, including waste reduction, recycling, and upcycling, will be explored as methods to minimise resource use while maximising material recovery. The role of waste management as both an economic and ecological driver within the circular framework will be highlighted. The module further addresses Sustainable Energy systems, with particular attention to wind energy structures and infrastructure. Design, construction, and operation will be analysed from the perspectives of sustainability and resilience, alongside consideration of the technical and societal dimensions of renewable integration.
The module is taught in English and begins on Monday, 4 May 2026, at 9.45 am.
Given the project-based structure of the course, in-person participation is strongly encouraged and envisaged.
