Environmental Science

The course of Environmental Science is taught in the 6th semester of the School of Chemical Engineering of NTUA. It aims to familiarize students with the scientific examination of environmental quality and environmental disturbances primarily from anthropogenic causes. It also seeks to give a global and comprehensive approach of the environment and also addresses to environmental problems that currently exist.

Objectives

The course aims to introduce students in Environmental Science through multidisciplinary dimension, to disclose the nature of the environmental problems caused by human factors, identify and understand the sources and impacts of air pollution, water pollution and solid waste.

Prerequisites

Analytical, Inorganic and Organic Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Biochemistry, Physical, Mathematical sciences

Syllabus

Introduction to Environmental Science: Multidisciplinary dimension of Environmental Science, nature environmental problems, Environmental Science and Chemical Engineering, ecology, toxicology and ecotoxicology, ecosystems and energy flow and material cycles of elements in the environment, biodiversity, anthropogenic disturbances of the environment. Air and Air Pollution: Structure and composition of the atmosphere, atmospheric pollutants, sources and effects of air pollution, air pollution species, effect of meteorological conditions on air pollution, dispersion of pollutants in the atmosphere, planetary scale atmospheric disturbances (decrease stratospheric ozone, global warming, acid rain, climate change), air quality limits, pollution interiors. Sampling and measurements of air pollution, Air pollution Network , case studies. Aquatic environment and water pollution: Water characterization, water cycle, aquatic ecosystems, water quality and uses, pollution sources (urban wastewater and liquid industrial waste), surface and groundwater pollution, ocean pollution, sampling and testing water quality, polluting parameters (organoleptic , physicochemical, undesirable substances, toxic, biological), eutrophication. Solid Waste and Environmental Pollution: Categories and sources of waste origin, polluting parameters and environmental effects, household waste, hazardous and radioactive waste, Waste Management and solid waste, Technical waste treatment and environmental impacts. Environmental policy and legislation - Environment and sustainable development (sustainability): Legislative framework and policies to address environmental pollution, environmental quality standards, environmental indicators, economic components, information and citizen participation.