So what is green design? This course will explore the broad range of issues of what is variously called ecological, green, environmental, and sustainable design. Through lectures, seminars, field trips and a design charette we will develop a framework for understanding the issues and making value-based design decisions. Tours will include residential and commercial buildings, renewable energy systems, and biologically based water treatment systems. We will address the impacts of our built environment on the natural environment and impacts on our health and well-being. We will study various systems, including LEED, for establishing design processes and evaluating results. This course is intended as a broad survey course and is suitable for architects, engineers, architecture and environmental studies students, builders, developers, and facilities managers. Beginner to Intermediate.

35 Learning Units

Available for college credit through the University of Vermont—ENVS95 (2 credits). (Tuition $868). Available June session only.

Certificate in Sustainable Building and Design