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Full-Text Articles in Physical Sciences and Mathematics

Development Of A Methodology For Dormitory Energy Load Estimation And Analysis, John Michael Real Dec 2011

Development Of A Methodology For Dormitory Energy Load Estimation And Analysis, John Michael Real

Masters Theses, 2010-2019

In recent years interest in reducing energy consumption at the building levels has been increasing, especially in the higher education sector. Many examples exist of higher education institutions reducing their environmental impact through energy consumption reductions, however the majority of these are anecdotal examples and it is difficult to replicate these initiatives at other institutions, either due to resource constraints, financial constraints, or a lack of reproducible methodology. This issue is further compounded by the fact that a generalized methodology does not exist for the purposes of estimating building energy loads, especially in dormitories in the absence of expensive and …


The Examination Of The Feasibility Of Implementing A Biosphere Reserve In The Maltese Islands : Applying A Conservation Value Evaluation Framework, Alexander Borg Dec 2011

The Examination Of The Feasibility Of Implementing A Biosphere Reserve In The Maltese Islands : Applying A Conservation Value Evaluation Framework, Alexander Borg

Masters Theses, 2010-2019

Biosphere reserves are protected areas which are internationally recognized within the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s Man and the Biosphere Programme for promoting and establishing a balanced relationship between people and nature. Biosphere reserve management is guided by principles of biodiversity conservation; sustainable development; local, national and international partnership and support; local capacity-building; research and monitoring and co-operative management that is multidisciplinary, multi-stakeholder and locally-based. The research evaluated the feasibility of implementing the biosphere reserve concept in the Maltese Islands. This was studied by applying a conservation framework which consisted of holistic conservation value appraisal criteria – incorporating …


Proposing A Path For Sustainability Curricula: Identifying Core Thinking And Learning Elements For Sustainability Higher Education, Timothy F. Botkin Dec 2011

Proposing A Path For Sustainability Curricula: Identifying Core Thinking And Learning Elements For Sustainability Higher Education, Timothy F. Botkin

Masters Theses, 2010-2019

Research indicates that sustainability higher education (SHE) has been promoted since the 1970s but has not achieved satisfactory progress in meeting original goals. Reflecting the evasive nature of sustainability as a goal, SHE programs appear stunted and there is little overall guidance with regard to curricula development. This dissertation addresses this issue by conducting a comprehensive literature research and sampling of those in sustainability post-graduate programs in an effort to determine an articulable set of core thinking and learning elements to assist in implementing SHE programs. Initial research identified fifteen core element candidates. These were incorporated into a survey sent …


Residential Solar Energy In The Valley: A Feasibility Assessment And Carbon Mitigation, Deanna Leigh Zimmerman Dec 2011

Residential Solar Energy In The Valley: A Feasibility Assessment And Carbon Mitigation, Deanna Leigh Zimmerman

Masters Theses, 2010-2019

This project explores whether the Shenandoah Valley can achieve its 25x’25 goals in the residential sector using the two most feasible solar energy technologies, solar photovoltaic electric power production and solar thermal hot water generation. After a review of the barriers to the adoption of solar energy in households, the potential rates of adoption and energy output are estimated using U.S. Census data and Department of Energy data. Multiple scenarios are explored, including the “maximum theoretical” contribution of solar energy to the residential sector as well as scenarios of household behavior under different constraints. With respect to solar photovoltaic, it …


Initiation Of A Framework For Closed-Loop, Integrated Design And Planning For The Simplest Of Building Types, Vernacular Stuctures, Vedad Hasanovic May 2011

Initiation Of A Framework For Closed-Loop, Integrated Design And Planning For The Simplest Of Building Types, Vernacular Stuctures, Vedad Hasanovic

Masters Theses, 2010-2019

The purpose of this review is to promote a framework for the diversification of the built environment, where adequate human shelter can be more readily available. Shelter will be required as the effects of climate change impact more people around the world. The commonalities that are shared among these structures worldwide give reason, as to their importance, and as humans begin to familiarize themselves with descent culture; models for sustainable living that are found in nature. (Holmgren, 2002) Vernacular structures prove that it is possible to build safe, dependable and cost-effective shelter without negatively impacting the surrounding environment. These structures …


‘The Eco-Gozo Vision’: A Study Set Against Criteria Of Good Governance And Sustainability, Amity Gauci May 2011

‘The Eco-Gozo Vision’: A Study Set Against Criteria Of Good Governance And Sustainability, Amity Gauci

Masters Theses, 2010-2019

To make up for social fragmentation of modern life and its alienation from nature, lately sustainable communities and eco islands have arisen around the world as a worldwide movement. Given this context, this study will address the island of Gozo. Gozo is the subject of an Eco Island Vision; a Vision with the aim to transform Gozo into an eco island by 2020. Thus the intent of this study is to present an evaluation of the Vision based on principles of good governance and sustainability. The research methodology has been based on a triangulation approach: a desk study to establish …