The main aim of the course is to provide an up-to-date introduction to the concept of circularity and circular economy, including bio-economy, i.e., non-fossil carbon- based value chains, both in Europe and globally. The objectives are to protrude knowledge for identifying and developing suitable circularity concepts for plausible economic models encountered in real life. Furthermore, the course will present the newest knowledge and an overview of the current status of metrics for quantifying circularity and the issue of scaling circular business models.

The course consists of lectures, each associated with an hour of a brainstorm and a few hours of assignment. Prior to each lecture there is also reading material, whereas after the course lectures, there is preparation and passing of exam. 

The working load is designed considering the time give to students to think about the subject, provide their assumptions in a pre-discussion i.e., brainstorming for 5 different products/industries (e.g., plastic, aquaculture, batteries, aluminium, agro-biomass) in the form of short description of the sector, so the students develop the system.

Course Image TS1.05 Remote Sensing and Wireless Sensor Networks

The main objectives are:

  • Understanding the principles of remote sensing: Develop a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals, techniques, and applications of remote sensing technology (e.g. satellite imagery, aerial photography...etc.).
  • Exploring Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs): Introduce the concepts, architectures, and protocols of wireless sensor networks, focusing on their design, installation, and operation in different scenarios.
  • Integrating remote sensing with wireless sensor networks: Explore the integration of remote sensing data with wireless sensor networks for some application examples like environmental monitoring, disaster management, precision agriculture and many other applications.
  • Data acquisition and analysis: Provide valuable insight into the acquisition, processing and analysis of remotely sensed data and sensor measurements.
Course Image TS1.04 Management of Natural Resources

The primary objective of this course is to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices in nature conservation, covering the historical, legal, and biological aspects. A special focus will be placed on the key critical parameters to monitor nature conservation, including biodiversity.
Through this course, students will gain a deep insight into the various strategies and methodologies employed in the conservation of species, ecosystems, and protected areas, including forests, wetlands, and non-forest habitats. The course aims to develop competences in the application of conservation laws and policies, both at a national and international level, including familiarity with conventions such as CITES and EU’s NATURA 2000 framework. Students will be prepared to engage in practical conservation efforts, applying knowledge in habitat management, species protection, and the administration of conservation initiatives. Through hands-on examples and case studies, the course seeks to foster a comprehensive skill set enabling graduates to contribute effectively to nature conservation projects and policy development.

Course Image TS1.03 NI LabVIEW Training

The course aims to equip each student with the necessary skills to attain the initial accreditation level of the NI LabVIEW software. Consequently, students are expected to gain familiarity with the LabVIEW environment, comprehend its fundamental components and structures, develop rudimentary applications within the LabVIEW graphical programming environment, employ the state machine design pattern for application creation, and proficiently handle data input/output operations. Furthermore, participants will grasp the advantages of LabVIEW and its application in resolving real-world environmental challenges such as Resource Management, Environmental Protection, and Pollution Monitoring.

Course Image TS1.02 Data Acquisition and Sensors

The main objectives are:

  • to gain broad understanding of how sensors work;
  • to learn the basic sensors used in precision agricultural systems and on the interpretation of data they provide;
  • to gain first-hand experience on current sensor system technology implemented for different purposes and situations.
Course Image TS1.01 Environmental Policy and Planning

The objectives of the Environmental Policy & Planning course are multifaceted, aiming to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to address complex environmental challenges and contribute to sustainable development initiatives. Key objectives include fostering an understanding of environmental policy frameworks and governance structures at local, regional, and international level, developing analytical and critical thinking skills for evaluating environmental issues and policy solutions, enhancing technical competencies in data analysis, and other relevant tools for environmental planning and management, promoting effective communication and collaboration in interdisciplinary settings, and cultivating a sense of responsibility and commitment to environmental stewardship and social equity.