OpenCourser brand icon
Sign in
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Course image
edX logo

Engineers Canada – Sustainability in practice

Louise Millette, David Lapp, Patrick Cigana, Jean-François Desgroseilliers, Shirley Fagnen, and Véronique Gisondi

Learn how to apply Engineers Canada’s National guideline on sustainable development and environmental stewardship for professional engineers.

Read more

Learn how to apply Engineers Canada’s National guideline on sustainable development and environmental stewardship for professional engineers.

This course is a joint project between Engineers Canada (EC) and Polytechnique Montréal. It will show real case studies illustrating practical applications of the 10 guidelines contained in EC’s National guideline on sustainable development and environmental stewardship for professional engineers (2016). It will also suggest tools for engineers to apply these guidelines in their professional practice.

What you'll learn

  • explain the basic concepts of sustainable development (SD) and environmental stewardship (ES) and their relationship to engineering;
  • recognize the importance, for an engineer, to be aware of SD and ES concepts;
  • describe real world applications of Engineers Canada’s sustainability guidelines;
  • identify ways to integrate sustainability aspects in their daily practice.
Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Explain the basic concepts of sustainable development (sd) and environmental stewardship (es) and their relationship to engineering;
  • Recognize the importance, for an engineer, to be aware of sd and es concepts;
  • Describe real world applications of engineers canada’s sustainability guidelines;
  • Identify ways to integrate sustainability aspects in their daily practice.

Syllabus

Module 1: Sustainable Development, Environmental Stewardship, and Engineering ****
Introduction to the notions of sustainable development (SD) and environmental stewardship (ES). Environmental, social and economic challenges of SD. Overview of EC’s 10 guidelines.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores Engineers Canada's National guideline on sustainable development and environmental stewardship for professional engineers, an important document for engineering professionals
Taught by Louise Millette, David Lapp, Patrick Cigana, Jean-François Desgroseilliers, Véronique Gisondi, and Shirley Fagnen, experts in sustainable development and environmental stewardship
Provides real-world case studies that showcase how the guidelines can be applied in various engineering contexts
Emphasizes the importance of incorporating sustainability and environmental stewardship into engineering practices
Addresses the need for engineers to stay updated on current trends and practices in sustainable development and environmental stewardship
Aimed at professional engineers seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in sustainability

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Sustainability for engineering practice

According to learners, this course is a highly relevant offering for engineers seeking to integrate sustainability. Students commend its focus on practical case studies that effectively illustrate the application of Engineers Canada’s guidelines. Many find the tools and resources provided to be particularly useful for daily practice. While it offers a clear overview of SD and ES concepts, some more experienced professionals might perceive certain sections as introductory. Overall, it's considered a valuable professional development opportunity, providing actionable insights for ethical and sustainable engineering.
Offers good intro, but some sections are basic.
"As a seasoned professional, I found some parts of the course to be quite introductory, though it served as a good refresher."
"While comprehensive, I personally wished for more in-depth discussions on specific advanced engineering sustainability challenges."
"It’s an excellent starting point for many, but I felt that very experienced practitioners might desire deeper dives into certain tools or methodologies."
Clarifies core sustainable development concepts.
"The course offered a very clear and concise introduction to the basic concepts of sustainable development and environmental stewardship."
"Even with some prior knowledge, I found the refresh on SD and ES concepts very valuable and well-presented."
"I felt the fundamental concepts were explained in an accessible way, which was great for building a solid understanding."
Content is organized and easy to follow.
"The modules were exceptionally well-structured and easy to follow, which kept me engaged throughout the course."
"I found the lectures clear and concise, making even complex topics digestible and understandable."
"The overall presentation of the course material felt very professional and informative, which I really appreciated."
Directly addresses Engineers Canada guidelines.
"It's an excellent resource for understanding Engineers Canada's sustainability guidelines and their practical implications."
"The course clearly articulated the importance of the EC guidelines for my professional practice."
"I appreciate how effectively it broke down and illustrated each of the 10 sustainability guidelines outlined by Engineers Canada."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Engineers Canada – Sustainability in practice with these activities:
Review Environmental Impact Assessment Techniques
Revisit the principles and techniques of environmental impact assessment, ensuring a solid foundation for understanding their application in sustainable engineering practices.
Browse courses on Environmental Impact Assessment
Show steps
  • Review key methodologies and tools for environmental impact assessment.
  • Analyze case studies of environmental impact assessments.
Review Laws and Regulations
Familiarize yourself with the essential laws and regulations governing sustainable development and environmental stewardship, providing a strong foundation for understanding the course content.
Show steps
  • Review key environmental protection laws and regulations.
  • Explore case studies of legal implications in engineering projects.
Solve Sustainable Design Problems
Enhance your problem-solving abilities by practicing with questions and exercises centered around sustainable design principles.
Browse courses on Sustainable Design
Show steps
  • Review fundamental concepts of sustainable design
  • Solve practice problems involving material selection, energy efficiency, and waste reduction
  • Analyze and compare different sustainable design solutions
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Review Environmental Impact Assessment Techniques
Reviewing environmental impact assessment techniques will refresh your understanding of how to assess the environmental impacts of projects, which is a key component of Engineers Canada's sustainability guidelines.
Browse courses on Environmental Impact Assessment
Show steps
  • Read the guidelines on environmental impact assessment by Engineers Canada.
  • Review your notes or textbooks on environmental impact assessment.
  • Complete a practice environmental impact assessment for a small project.
Explore Sustainable Development Case Studies
Delve into real-world examples of sustainable development practices, enhancing your understanding of the guidelines and their practical implications.
Browse courses on Environmental Impact Assessment
Show steps
  • Research and analyze case studies of successful sustainable development projects.
  • Join online forums or webinars to discuss case studies and exchange insights.
Develop a Sustainability Plan for a Project
Creating a sustainability plan for a project will give you hands-on experience in applying the principles of sustainable development to a real-world scenario.
Browse courses on Sustainability
Show steps
  • Identify the project's goals and objectives.
  • Conduct a sustainability assessment of the project.
  • Develop a plan to mitigate the project's negative environmental and social impacts.
  • Implement the plan and monitor its progress.
Discuss Sustainability Case Studies with Peers
Engage in discussions with peers to exchange insights on sustainability case studies, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and solutions in the field.
Browse courses on Sustainable Development
Show steps
  • Join or form a study group specifically focused on sustainability.
  • Facilitate discussions on assigned case studies, sharing different perspectives and analysis.
Design a Sustainable Building
Apply the principles of sustainable development to a practical scenario by designing a building that minimizes environmental impact.
Browse courses on Sustainable Building Design
Show steps
  • Establish building parameters and sustainability goals
  • Research sustainable building materials and technologies
  • Design the building's layout and systems
  • Evaluate the design's sustainability performance
Problem-Solving in Sustainable Engineering
Engage in problem-solving exercises that simulate real-world engineering challenges, honing your ability to integrate sustainability principles into your decision-making.
Browse courses on Problem-Solving
Show steps
  • Identify and analyze engineering problems with sustainability implications.
  • Develop sustainable solutions that meet environmental, social, and economic criteria.
Develop a Sustainability Implementation Plan
Create a practical plan for implementing sustainability principles in your engineering work, demonstrating your grasp of the guidelines and your ability to apply them.
Browse courses on Sustainability Assessment
Show steps
  • Identify and analyze sustainability challenges in an engineering project.
  • Develop a set of sustainable solutions and strategies.
  • Create a roadmap for implementing the sustainability plan.

Career center

Learners who complete Engineers Canada – Sustainability in practice will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants provide expert advice to businesses and organizations seeking to improve their sustainability performance. They evaluate current practices, identify opportunities for improvement, and develop and implement sustainability strategies. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course aligns well with this role, providing a comprehensive understanding of sustainable development and environmental stewardship concepts. The course's focus on practical applications and tools empowers Sustainability Consultants to make informed decisions and effectively guide clients in their sustainability journeys.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers apply engineering principles to protect the environment and public health. They design and implement solutions to mitigate pollution, manage waste, and restore ecosystems. The Engineers Canada – Sustainability in practice course provides a strong foundation for Environmental Engineers, enhancing their understanding of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The course's emphasis on real-world case studies and risk management equips them with the knowledge and skills to address complex environmental challenges and contribute to a more sustainable future.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Managers oversee and implement sustainability initiatives within organizations. They develop and manage sustainability policies, programs, and reporting systems. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course aligns well with this role, providing a comprehensive understanding of sustainability principles and best practices. The course's focus on integrating sustainability into daily practice empowers Sustainability Managers to drive meaningful change within their organizations and contribute to a more sustainable future.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager
Renewable Energy Engineer
Renewable Energy Engineers design and develop systems to harness renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro. They play a crucial role in the transition to a sustainable energy future. The Engineers Canada – Sustainability in practice course provides a valuable foundation for Renewable Energy Engineers, enhancing their understanding of sustainability principles and environmental stewardship. The course's focus on practical applications and risk management equips them with the knowledge and skills to design and implement sustainable energy solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Renewable Energy Engineer
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design and build infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They ensure that these projects are safe, efficient, and sustainable. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course aligns well with this role, providing Civil Engineers with a comprehensive understanding of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The course's focus on practical applications and risk management equips them with the knowledge and skills to design and construct infrastructure projects that minimize environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.
See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and its interactions with human activities. They assess environmental impacts, develop conservation strategies, and monitor the effectiveness of environmental policies. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course provides a valuable foundation for Environmental Scientists, enhancing their understanding of sustainability principles and environmental stewardship. The course's focus on practical applications and risk management equips them with the knowledge and skills to address complex environmental issues and contribute to a more sustainable future.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist
Architect
Architects design and construct buildings and other structures. They create spaces that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course aligns well with this role, providing Architects with a comprehensive understanding of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The course's focus on practical applications and risk management equips them with the knowledge and skills to design and construct buildings that minimize environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.
See salaries and explore the career path for Architect
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design and build machines, engines, and other mechanical systems. They ensure that these systems are efficient, reliable, and sustainable. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course provides a valuable foundation for Mechanical Engineers, enhancing their understanding of sustainability principles and environmental stewardship. The course's focus on practical applications and risk management equips them with the knowledge and skills to design and build mechanical systems that minimize environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineers design and operate chemical plants and processes. They ensure that these processes are safe, efficient, and sustainable. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course provides a valuable foundation for Chemical Engineers, enhancing their understanding of sustainability principles and environmental stewardship. The course's focus on practical applications and risk management equips them with the knowledge and skills to design and operate chemical processes that minimize environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.
See salaries and explore the career path for Chemical Engineer
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects. They ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course may be useful for Project Managers working on sustainability-related projects. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of sustainable development and environmental stewardship, helping Project Managers to make informed decisions and effectively manage sustainability risks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyers specialize in environmental law and policy. They advise clients on environmental regulations, represent them in court, and advocate for environmental protection. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course may be useful for Environmental Lawyers seeking to enhance their understanding of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the field and its key principles, helping Environmental Lawyers to stay up-to-date on the latest developments and effectively represent their clients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Lawyer
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research, develop, and evaluate public policies. They provide advice to policymakers and stakeholders on a wide range of issues, including sustainability. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course may be useful for Policy Analysts working on sustainability-related policies. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of sustainable development and environmental stewardship, helping Policy Analysts to make informed recommendations and effectively advocate for sustainable policies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst
Sustainability Educator
Sustainability Educators teach and promote sustainability principles and practices. They work in a variety of settings, including schools, universities, and non-profit organizations. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course may be useful for Sustainability Educators seeking to enhance their understanding of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the field and its key principles, helping Sustainability Educators to effectively teach and promote sustainability.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Educator
Sustainability Reporter
Sustainability Reporters collect, analyze, and report on an organization's sustainability performance. They ensure that stakeholders have access to accurate and transparent information about the organization's environmental, social, and economic impacts. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course may be useful for Sustainability Reporters seeking to enhance their understanding of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the field and its key principles, helping Sustainability Reporters to effectively collect, analyze, and report on sustainability performance.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Reporter
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Managers oversee and implement CSR initiatives within organizations. They ensure that organizations are operating in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. Engineers Canada’s Sustainability in practice course may be useful for CSR Managers seeking to enhance their understanding of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the field and its key principles, helping CSR Managers to effectively develop and implement CSR strategies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Corporate Social Responsibility Manager

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Engineers Canada – Sustainability in practice.
Cover image
Transportation Planning Handbook
Save
Comprehensive guide to sustainable development and environmental stewardship for professional engineers. It provides an overview of the key concepts and principles of SD and ES, and offers practical guidance on how to apply these principles in engineering practice.
Transportation Planning Handbook
Hardcover
$$$$
Transportation Planning Handbook
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Passive Solar Architecture Pocket Reference
Save
Provides a clear and concise introduction to sustainability for engineers. It covers the basic concepts and principles of SD, and offers practical guidance on how to apply these principles in engineering practice.
Passive Solar Architecture Pocket Reference (Energy...
Hardcover
$$$$
Passive Solar Architecture Pocket Reference (Energy...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Developing a roadmap towards increased...
Save
Provides the sustainability reporting guidelines from the Global Reporting Initiative. It useful reference for engineers who want to learn more about the topic.
Developing a roadmap towards increased...
Paperback
Check
Developing a roadmap towards increased...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Sustainable Construction
Save
Provides a guide to sustainable construction. It useful resource for engineers who want to learn more about the topic.
Sustainable Construction: Green Building Design and...
Hardcover
$$$
Sustainable Construction: Green Building Design and...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Your Green Home
Save
Provides a guide to green building principles and practices in residential construction. It useful resource for engineers who want to learn more about the topic.
Your Green Home
Paperback
Check
Your Green Home
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Integrated Cost-Schedule Risk Analysis
Save
Provides a guide to risk assessment and mitigation. It useful resource for engineers who want to learn more about the topic.
Integrated Cost-Schedule Risk Analysis
Paperback
Check
Integrated Cost-Schedule Risk Analysis
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Introduction to Environmental Impact Assessment
Save
Provides a guide to environmental impact assessment. It useful resource for engineers who want to learn more about the topic.
Introduction to Environmental Impact Assessment
Paperback
Check
Introduction to Environmental Impact Assessment
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Engineering for Sustainable Development
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the role of engineers in sustainable development. It covers the key concepts and principles of SD, and offers practical guidance on how engineers can contribute to SD in their work.
Engineering for Sustainable Development
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Water Treatment Plant Design 5/E
Save
These guidelines provide a comprehensive overview of the key concepts and principles of SD and ES for professional engineers. They offer practical guidance on how to apply these principles in engineering practice.
Water Treatment Plant Design 5/E
Paperback
Check
Water Treatment Plant Design 5/E
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Sustainability by Design
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of engineering for sustainable development. It covers the key concepts and principles of ESD, and offers practical guidance on how to apply these principles in engineering practice.
Sustainability by Design
Paperback
Check
Sustainability by Design
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Strengthening Sustainability Programs and Curricula...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of sustainability in the engineering curriculum. It covers the key concepts and principles of SD, and offers practical guidance on how to integrate SD into engineering education.
Strengthening Sustainability Programs and Curricula...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Thank You for Being Late
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of sustainable engineering. It covers the key concepts and principles of SE, and offers practical guidance on how to apply these principles in engineering practice.
Thank You for Being Late
Paperback
Check
Thank You for Being Late
Kindle Edition
Check

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
X
Link
Email

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Engineers Canada – Sustainability in practice.
Create environmental awareness content with Canva
Most relevant
Stress First Aid for Healthcare Workers: A Peer Support...
Most relevant
The ABC of sustainability
Most relevant
Ash-Related Operational Challenges in Energy Utilization...
Most relevant
Transformation of the Global Food System
Most relevant
Global sustainability and corporate social responsibility...
Most relevant
Ecological and Energy Transitions in Southern Countries
Most relevant
Operations Excellence
Most relevant
Digital Business - Capstone project
Most relevant

edX Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

World-Class University Partner
Free Trial & Audit

Free Audit Track Available

Free audit track available for most courses, giving open access to video lectures, course readings, and assignments at no charge.

Return & Refund Policy

14-Day Full Refund Window

14-day full refund available up to 14 days after course start or 14 days after payment (whichever comes second, up to 6 months max), provided verified certificate has not yet been earned.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

University-backed credentials authored by elite institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Oxford, with tamper-proof certificate verification.

Key Purchase Protections
Free audit track for open learning access
14-day money-back guarantee on verified certificates
Prestigious university credentials (Harvard, MIT)
Automatic unenrollment refund process via dashboard
OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22
Course image
Effort
1 to 3 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Intermediate
Via
edX
Institution
Université de Montréal
Instructors
Louise Millette
David Lapp
Patrick Cigana
Jean-François Desgroseilliers
Shirley Fagnen
Véronique Gisondi
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores Engineers Canada's National guideline on sustainable development and environmental stewardship for professional engineers, an important document for engineering professionals
Taught by Louise Millette, David Lapp, Patrick Cigana, Jean-François Desgroseilliers, Véronique Gisondi, and Shirley Fagnen, experts in sustainable development and environmental stewardship
Provides real-world case studies that showcase how the guidelines can be applied in various engineering contexts
Emphasizes the importance of incorporating sustainability and environmental stewardship into engineering practices
Addresses the need for engineers to stay updated on current trends and practices in sustainable development and environmental stewardship
Aimed at professional engineers seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in sustainability
Share this
Share to help others discover this course.
Facebook LinkedIn X Reddit Link Email
Begin learning today
Enroll now to gain full access to Engineers Canada – Sustainability in practice.
Enroll now
Save for later
Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.
Save
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser