Energy and Resources 98/198: Energy DeCal

This course strives to educate students to have a better understanding of the different types of sources used to create energy, how much energy you consume, the consequences of the pollution that is released as a result, and how we can change our lifestyles to consume less. Students will integrate what they’ve learned to formulate approaches for what you can do to foster more sustainable practices. More specifically, they will positively interact with the campus community to initiate change in the University’s operations and behavioral habits concerning energy use.

Energy DeCal will explore the social, environmental and economic consequences of our carbon-based economy. We depend on energy to fuel our cars and airplanes, grow and transport our food, light our cities, warm our homes, cook our food, and power our machinery, appliances, and electronics. As we continue to deplete our energy sources (and pollute our air and water in the process), the challenge to satisfy our need for energy continues to mount.

The Energy DeCal class is kicking off its eigth semester this Fall 2008 semester. This year, we are focusing on energy conservation at climate change, alternative energy and fuels, and sustainable living. The course includes trips to see solar panels on campus, a hydrogen-powered vehicle, and to the Green Suite. The course also entails alternative energy debates, videos, and guest presentations from several sustainability specialists.

Each semester, the students also participate in two different projects: an in-room energy audit and a group project. In the in-room audit, students are given tools to examine the sources of their primary residential energy usage and assess its impact on the environment and the economy.

For more information on enrolling in the Energy DeCal, please visit: http://www.decal.org/energy

Check out informational videos about energy conservation and “Focus the Nation” from Fall 2007 Energy Decal Class’ group project via youtube:
Video 1 Video 2 Video 3

Course Materials:

Get involved with this project. Project contact: energy101class@gmail.com

This course is sponsored by Daniel Kammen, Director of the Renewable and Appropriate Energy Laboratory, a Professor in the Energy and Resources Group, and a Professor of Public Policy at UC Berkeley.