MODULE 1

ENVIROMENT
& SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT
JEWELL, NICOLE, & CRYSTELLE
ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPEMENT
Systems
Thinking
Sutainable
Developement Promoting
Sustainable
Developement:
The Roles of
Three Pillars of Engineers
Sustainability Sustainable
Developement
TOPIC 01
SUSTAINABLE

The name sustainability is derived from the Latin sustinere

(to hold; sub, under). Sustain can mean "maintain",
"support", or "endure".
However, sustainability is most often defined as meeting
the needs of the present without compromising the ability
of future generations to meet theirs. It has three main
pillars: economic, environmental, and social. These three
pillars are informally referred to as people, planet and
profits.
SUSTAINABLE

Forests are a habitat for around

Of the species
Reforestation helps restore lost
living on land habitat, creates new living
in the world. spaces for flora and fauna, and
80% protects endangered species.

This process supports biodiversity recovery by repairing damaged

ecosystems, ensuring that the lives of various species can continue.
DEVELOPEMENT

Development:

1. Is a process that creates growth, progress, positive

change or the addition of physical, economic,
environmental, social and demographic components.

2. Development is visible and useful, not necessarily

immediately, and includes an aspect of quality change and
the creation of conditions for a continuation of that change.
 Development

One of the developement that man created, is the

utilization/maximization of land property; or such
use for

The total number of trees has fallen

by nearly half since the start of
human civilisation and it's estimated
that over 15 billion trees are cut down
each year. That’s around 100,000
square kilometres of forest, or
roughly one football pitch every two
seconds.
 Benefits of
Reforestation for
Climate Change
Trees play a role in absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the
atmosphere and storing it in their biomass. Reforestation is
an effective way to reduce the concentration of CO2, a gas
that causes global warming.

By planting more trees, we can reduce

carbon emissions, slow global warming, and
significantly improve the world's climate.
WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPEMENT?
Therefore, Sustainable development is the organizing
principle for meeting human development goals while
simultaneously sustaining the ability of natural systems to
provide the natural resources and ecosystem services
based upon which the economy and society depend
Simply put:
The desired result is a state of society where living conditions
and resources are used to continue to meet human needs
without undermining the integrity and stability of the natural
system.
Social and
Economic Impacts
of the Water Crisis Increase in Cost
of Living
Water shortages cause social conflicts, especially in areas
Explain more about some
with limited water resources. Water is also an expensive
of the social and economic
commodity, hampering economic development in many impacts of the water crisis.
countries. Inadequate water availability also increases the
risk of water-related diseases. Agricultural
Losses
Explain more about some
of the social and economic
impacts of the water crisis.

Social conflict
Explain more about some
of the social and economic
impacts of the water crisis.
Question to ponder
Can I keep keep doing this? Like will there
still be opportunities in the future?
 Sustainable developement

Will it keep up?

Will there be more or less in the future?

Solution or problem? What if's?

it's always about keeping things under control, if

not met then suffer later
Sus!!! Develop!!!

Thank's For
Your Attention
next presentation
TOPIC 02
 THREE PILLARS OF
SUSTAINABILITY

Climate and Economic Social

Environment Developement Progress
Natural ecosystems The fair progress; Equal opportunities
that must be balance smarter could mean and safety of one
better contributions another
1. Climate and
environment
Also known as Environment Sustainability

Natural Ecosystems that ‘always’ needs to

be balance in order for us to live, climate
systems is one of them>>

PLANET!!
Hello, I’m

Climate in our
environment
Awareness of temperature
Atmosphere emits exactly the right amount of solar
energy
Monitoring of greenhouse gasses

Climate and
environment
 Hello, I’m

Climate in our
environment
The Greenhouse Effect: These gases trap heat by absorbing infrared
radiation emitted by the Earth's surface and then radiating it back down,
warming the planet. This natural greenhouse effect is essential for
maintaining a habitable temperature on Earth. However, human activities
have significantly increased the concentration of these gases in the
atmosphere, leading to a greenhouse effect and global warming.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

Methane (CH4)
Nitrous Oxide (N2O)

Climate and
environment
Production
of energy:
The utilization of our natural resources for our
consumption

1. Renewable resources
2. Non Renewable resources

Climate and
environment
Non-
Renewable
Resources
Consumption that will highly benefit the people in
short term but leads to long term consequences. Such
example of this are;

1.Coal
2.Oil
3.Natural Gas

Climate and
environment
Renewable
Resources
Consumption that will highly benefit the people in
short term but leads to long term consequences such
as;

1.Wind
2.Water Current
3.Sunlight

Climate and
environment
2. Economics
Also known as Economic Sustainability

The process by which economies change from

ones where the majority of people have very
few resources and options to ones where they
have many more is known as economic
development. Research on "developing
economies," or economies with comparatively
low per capita resources, is referred to as
development economics.

Profit
 Trade

Buy
Nature materials

Develop
 Smarter System
Finding effective solutions for hunger and poverty in
the world in environmentally sound ways;

Economics is the study of how societies use their

resources (water, air, food, fuel, etc.) and when
combined with the concept of sustainable development, it
*hehe focuses on attaining economic growth which is only
sustainable and simultaneously improves our quality of
life and environment;

Economic sustainability is grouped into three general

categories to encompass sustainable growth, i.e values
and valuation, policy instruments and poverty and
environment.

Economic Sustainability
Economic sustainability strives to promote those activities
through which long-term economic growth can be achieved
without having a negative impact on the environmental, social,
and cultural aspects of the community
 Smarter System
1. Creates fair distributions - Fair distribution refers to
the equitable allocation of resources, opportunities, or
burdens among individuals or groups. It emphasizes
fairness and impartiality in how benefits and
responsibilities are shared, ensuring no one is
disproportionately disadvantaged or excluded. This
concept can apply to various contexts, including
resource allocation, wealth distribution, and the sharing
of risks and benefits.

2. More sustainable products (by maximizing it's full use) -

instead of throwing them away, we find ways of how to
use it on a different manner
 A great example of great distribution is a
Smarter Systems basketball

in such way that it takes a lot of process

before being use, creating a big role of
exchange and network
 h??
luh

Awareness
Not just blind market but also being
aware of what we buy and how it
was produce, creates a big change
of perspective
 3. Social Progress
Sociological - meaning: concerning the development, structure, and
functioning of human society.
socio - latin socius meaning; companion
3. Social
Progress
Also known as Social Sustainability

When the stable and unstable elements of a

community require the replenishment of depleted
resources, social sustainability—a type of social
responsibility—occurs. It integrates the social and
physical environment design, concentrates on the
needs of various community segments, and gives
particular attention to giving the weaker segments
the necessary support and infrastructure.

People
“Man’s potential can also be
nurtured’’
1. Systematic community participation
2. Strong civil society, including
government
3. Commonly accepted standards of
honesty (tolerance, compassion,
forbearance, love)
4. Gender equality
Fun Fact!
You can tell a person’s character by knowing his
friends.
Sus!!! Develop!!!

Thank's For
Your Attention
next presentation
TOPIC 03
 WHAT IS SYSTEMS
THINKING?
A holistic approach to analysis that focuses on the
way different parts of a system interact and how
they influence one another within a whole.

Example:

Problem: Flooding is a major issue in many parts of the

Philippines, especially in urban areas like Metro Manila, due
to heavy rainfall, poor drainage, and urban development.
Solution: The Philippine government and society have
taken a multi-sectoral and systems-based approach to
address the growing problem of floods. Rather than
focusing only on emergency response, the country has
shifted toward prevention, integration, and resilience
building.
 Environmental Social Equity Economic
integrity Viability

Nature is a complex, Environmental and economic Economic growth must be

interconnected system. problems often affect the balanced with social well-
Actions in one area (e.g., poor and marginalized the being and environmental
deforestation) can cause most. protection to be truly
consequences in others (e.g., sustainable.
flooding, biodiversity loss,
climate change).
Lack of systems Poor Waste Management
(Clogged Drains)

planning Lack of Green Open Spaces

Despite billions of pesos spent on flood control projects Informal Settlements Along
— such as pumping stations, dikes, drainage systems, Waterways
and floodways — urban flooding in Metro Manila
continues to worsen, especially during the rainy season
or typhoons. Streets and neighborhoods are frequently
submerged, disrupting daily life, damaging property,
and risking lives.
 4 KEY SYSTEMS THINKING CONCEPTS

Interconnectedness Causal Relationships

Everything is connected. (Cause and Effect Over
Changes in one part of
Time)
the system can affect Problems don’t always
other parts — come from where they
sometimes in appear — look for root Holistic
unexpected ways.
Feedback causes, not just Perspective
Loops symptoms.
Look at the whole
Systems self-
system, not just
regulate through
individual parts.
feedback.
 Interconnectedness
A core principle of systems thinking. It means that all parts of a
system are linked, and changes in one part will affect other
parts, sometimes in unexpected ways.

When we ignore interconnectedness, we risk solving one issue

while unintentionally creating another — or failing to fix the real
problem at all.

EXAMPLE:
Flooding is caused by interconnected factors, including:
Waste disposal behavior → Garbage blocks drainage.
Urban planning → Concrete roads reduce water absorption.
Deforestation upstream → Less absorption, more runoff.
Housing policy → Informal settlements block waterways.
 Feedback Loop
A feedback loop is a cycle where a
system's output influences its input —
creating a loop of cause and effect.
Types of Feedback
Loops

Reinforcing Feedback Loop

Makes a situation grow or spiral — in a good or bad way.

Example:
A family is poor
→ children can't finish school
→ limited job options
→ family stays poor
→ next generation repeats the cycle.
Types of Feedback
Loops

Balancing Feedback Loop

These loops resist change and try to keep the system stable or
balanced.

Example:
Typhoon is coming
→ PAGASA issues warning
→ people evacuate or prepare → damage is reduced
→ fewer casualties
→ confirms system works.
Causal Relationships (Cause
and Effect Over Time)
A causal relationship is when one thing causes another. In systems
thinking, this means understanding how actions or events in one
part of a system lead to effects in another — either immediately or
over time.
Example: Deforestation and Landslides
Causal relationship:
Trees are cut down →
Soil becomes loose →
Rain causes landslides →
Communities below are affected
 HOLISTIC
PERSPECTIVE
A holistic perspective means looking at the whole
system, not just individual parts.
It’s about seeing the big picture — how people,
environment, policies, and actions are all connected
and influencing each other.
 Barriers to
Linear Thinking
Systems Thinking
People often believe problems have one
cause and one solution.

Short-Term Focus

Decision-makers may focus on quick fixes

or what’s politically popular now, not what
works long-term.

Lack of Coordination

Departments or sectors work in isolation,

not as a whole system.
 Barriers to
Systems Thinking
Lack of Systems Education

Many people — including leaders — were

never trained to think in systems.

Blame Culture

Systems thinking requires collaboration

and learning.
 Barriers to
Systems Thinking
Complexity Fatigue

Systems are messy and complex, and

people can feel overwhelmed.

Resistance to Change

People and institutions are often

comfortable with how things are —
even when it’s broken.
BENEFITS OF SYSTEMS
THINKING
Holistic Problem Solving Long-Term Impact

Looks at the whole system rather Focuses on sustainable

than isolated parts. Prevents "band- outcomes, not just short-term
aid" solutions that cause new fixes. Considers future
problems elsewhere consequences of today’s actions.

Better Decision-Making Equity and Inclusiveness

Recognizes how different groups

Helps leaders understand
are affected by the same system
trade-offs and
differently. Promotes policies that
interdependencies.
benefit marginalized communities.
BENEFITS OF SYSTEMS
THINKING
Increased Resilience Effective Resource Use

Builds systems that can adapt and

Avoids waste by coordinating
recover from shocks (like climate
disasters). Supports risk reduction efforts across sectors.
and adaptive planning.

Encourages Collaboration Promotes Innovation

Helps generate creative solutions

Promotes shared
by seeing new connections.
responsibility.
Encourages experimentation and
learning.
BENEFITS OF SYSTEMS
THINKING
Supports Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs)

Helps align multiple SDGs at once

(e.g., clean water, health, cities,
climate action). Avoids trade-offs
and promotes synergy.
TOPIC 04
 TOPIC 04

OVERVIEW OF THIS REPORT

This report talks about how
engineers help create a better
and more sustainable world. It
explains what sustainable
development is and how
engineers play a big part in it.
 WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT?

Sustainable Development means

meeting our needs now without
stopping future generations from
meeting their own needs.
 Environmental Economy Social
Sustainability Sustainability Sustainability

Protecting nature Making sure Human rights and

and natural progress helps social justice
resources people earn and
live better lives
WHAT DOES
ENGINEERS
DO?
WHAT IS ENGINEERING?
Engineering is the use of science
and math to solve problems.
Engineers design and build
things like roads, machines,
buildings, and energy systems.
WHY ENGINEERS ARE IMPORTANT?

Engineers are problem-solvers.

They design new systems, fix old
problems, and find smart ways to
improve how things work.
ENGINEERS HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY

Engineers must consider the

long-term impact of their work.
They are responsible for securing
that their design and innovation
are safe for both people and
environment. Being ethical means
doing what's right, even when it's
not easy.
TYPES OF ENGINEERS THAT
HELPS SUSTAINABILITY
TYPES OF ENGINEERS THAT
HELPS SUSTAINABILITY
Civil Engineers Environmental Engineers

Build roads, bridges, Help protect nature

and water system. and clean water or air.

Mechanical Engineers Electrical & Software Engineers

Work on machines Make energy saving

and energy systems. systems and smart
technology.
 HOW ENGINEERS
PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT
Engineers have a vital role to play in promoting
sustainability and sustainable development.
Engineers are positioned to make a difference by
designing and developing environmentally friendly
solutions as the world faces environmental
challenges.
 IMPORTANCE OF
SUSTAINABLE ENGINEERING
Sustainable engineering is crucial for creating a
better environmental and societal future.
Engineers can significantly promote sustainable
development by designing innovative solutions
that reduce waste and decrease environmental
impact.
THE ROLES OF
ENGINEERS
SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT
PROTECTING THE
ENVIRONMENT
One of the main role of engineering in
sustainable development is protecting the
environment.

• Reducing pollution from factories and

cars.
• Designing better waste management
systems like recycling plants.
• Making sure construction project don't
harm nature.
• Creating products that use less energy
and fewer materials.
DEVELOPING CLEAN AND
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Engineers are working to replace
fossil fuels (like coal and oil) with
clean energy sources that don’t
pollute the air.

These include:
Solar power
Wind power
Hydropower
Geothermal energy
BUILDING SUSTAINABLE CITIES
AND INFRASTRUCTURE
As the world's population grows,
engineers are designing smarter and
more sustainable cities.

This includes:
Designing energy- efficient buildings
Improving public transportation
system like electric buses and trains
Developing better roads, bridges, and
water systems
Planning Urban areas to reduce
overcrowding and pollution
USING RESOURCES WISELY
Engineers play a key role in using natural
resources efficiently. Instead of wasting
materials, they design products and
systems that:

• Use fewer raw materials - by finding

smarter ways to produce things using
less metal, plastic, water, or energy.
• Last longer - by improving quality and
durability, so products don't need to be
replaced often.
• Can be reused or recycled - by making
items that are easier to repair, take apart,
or turn into something new.
MITIGATING CLIMATE CHANGE
Engineers help reduce the causes of climate
change by developing technologies and systems
that lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Engineering solutions include:

Carbon capture and storage - trapping

carbon dioxide from the air and storing it
safety underground
Low-emission construction materials - using
eco-friendly building materials that produce
less CO₂
Climate-resilient infrastructure - designing
buildings, roads, and bridges that can
withstand extreme weather
Environmental monitoring tools - using data
and sensors to track pollution, temperature,
and climate changes
HELPING PEOPLE AND
COMMUNITIES
Engineering is also about improving
people’s lives. Engineers work on
projects that:

• Provide clean drinking water and

sanitation
• Build safe housing
• Supply electricity to rural areas
• Improve access to healthcare and
education
WORKING RESPONSIBLY AND
ETHICALLY
Engineers must think carefully about
the long-term effects of their work.

They need to:

• Follow safety and environmental rules
• Make ethical decisions that avoid
harm to people or nature
• Work together with governments,
scientists, and communities
• Think about future generations, not
just short-term success
 CONCLUSION
Engineers play a vital role in creating a
sustainable future. They design solutions that
protect the environment and improve people's
lives. By using resources wisely and promoting
clean energy, they help reduce harm to the
planet. Through responsible and ethical work,
engineers build a better world for future
generations.
REMEMBER

ENGINEERS CAN'T SOLVE

EVERYTHING ALONE, BUT NOTHING
CAN BE SOLVE WITHOUT THEM.
THANK
YOU!