ENGR 290: Engineering in a Global and Societal Context
Costa Rica: Sustainable Energy & Eco-Tourism
May 16th through June 6th 2013

 

   

 

Instructors:

Peter Jansson, Electrical Engineering
David Cipoletti, Mechanical Engineering

Location:

Costa Rica is located in Central America bordered to the north by Nicaragua, to the south by Panama with the Pacific Ocean on its western shoreline and the Caribbean Sea on its eastern shoreline. Historically the economy has been based largely on coffee production. Coffee, pineapples and bananas remain its largest three cash crops. However recently Costa Rica has worked to build up its economy around ecotourism by by preserving its exquisite landscapes, flora and fauna, and using them to its advantage. In doing so the country has focused on sustainable energy production. The government has committed to becoming the first carbon neutral country by 2021. These efforts have not gone unnoticed, Costa Rica is ranked fifth on the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) for 2012, whereas the United States does not make it into the top thirty. During our trip to Costa Rica we will visit solar, wind, biomass, geothermal and hydroelectric power generation sites, as well as many other locations that showcase Costa Rica's commitment to sustainability (and of course a day or two on the beach enjoying the beautiful setting that is Costa Rica) 

Details:

The course will be counted as 1 Bucknell credit over a three week period (approximately May 20th - June 9th, 2013). Cost will be approximately $6,000; includes tuition, airfare, all admissions, all lodging and most meals. Limited financial aid, not exceeding 50% of a students' school-year aid rate, may be available.

This course fulfills the Global/Societal requirement for Engineering students, the Global Connections requirement for Arts & Science / Dual Degree students, and counts as a W2 for all students.


 


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