Applied Circular Economy: Zero Waste Buildings, Microcredential, Part-time
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-01-01 | - |
| 2024-04-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Applied Circular Economy: Zero Waste Buildings microcredential at BCIT empowers professionals to design, construct, and manage buildings that minimize waste and maximize resource recovery. Through three courses, students learn to optimize resource utilization, evaluate building materials for environmental impact, and apply circularity principles to construction projects. The program aligns with Canada's 2050 net-zero target, emphasizing sustainable building practices and deep decarbonization strategies.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Applied Circular Economy: Zero Waste Buildings microcredential at BCIT equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to design, construct, and manage buildings that minimize waste and maximize resource recovery. This program aligns with Canada's 2050 net-zero target, emphasizing the need for deep decarbonization strategies and sustainable building practices.
Objectives:
- Understand the material flow through the construction process, from extraction to disposal, and apply this knowledge to optimize resource utilization.
- Evaluate building materials and products based on their environmental impact using Life Cycle Assessment reports and product disclosure statements.
- Integrate 'Design for Disassembly' and 'Cradle to Cradle' principles into building projects to promote circularity and minimize waste.
- Manage building deconstruction and incorporate salvaged and recycled materials into new projects.
- Apply the waste hierarchy to construction processes, prioritizing prevention and zero waste strategies.
Outline:
This microcredential consists of three courses, each worth 3 credits:
- Deconstruction Management:
- Principles of deconstruction planning and execution
- Material recovery and salvage techniques
- Regional policies and regulations related to demolition and deconstruction
- Design for Disassembly:
- Principles of DfD and Cradle to Cradle design
- Case studies and industry best practices
- Application of DfD strategies to building projects and material selection
- Construction Material Flows:
- Material Flow Analysis (MFA) techniques
- Identification of key intervention points for circularity
- Analysis of material sourcing, consumption, and end-of-life options
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a combination of project work and individual exams. The passing grade for each course is 50%.
Teaching:
The program is delivered in a blended format, combining on-campus and online learning. Students can register for courses individually or complete all three to obtain the microcredential.
BCIT - British Columbia Institute of Technology
Overview:
BCIT is a public post-secondary institution in British Columbia, Canada, offering practical, flexible, and applied education. It distinguishes itself from traditional colleges and universities by focusing on hands-on learning with instructors who have direct experience in their fields.
Services Offered:
BCIT provides a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic & Learning Services:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing support, and library resources.Campus Amenities:
Cafeterias, fitness facilities, student lounges, and other amenities.Financial Aid & Awards:
Scholarships, bursaries, and other financial assistance programs.Health & Wellness:
Counseling, health services, and wellness programs.Safety & Security:
Campus security services and safety protocols.Student Life & Housing:
Student clubs, events, and housing options.Technology:
Access to computer labs, software, and online learning platforms.Workplace & Career Opportunities:
Career counseling, job placement services, and internship opportunities.Indigenous Initiatives:
Support services and programs for Indigenous students.International Students:
Support services and programs for international students.Student Association:
Student-run organization representing student interests.Student Life and Campus Experience:
BCIT offers a vibrant campus life with opportunities for students to engage in various activities, including:
Clubs and Organizations:
Joining clubs and organizations related to their interests.Events:
Attending campus events, workshops, and social gatherings.Volunteering:
Contributing to the community through volunteer opportunities.Mentorship:
Connecting with mentors and peers for guidance and support.Key Reasons to Study There:
Practical, Hands-on Learning:
Focus on applied learning with industry-relevant skills.Experienced Instructors:
Instructors with direct experience in their fields.Flexible Learning Options:
Full-time, part-time, and online programs.Strong Industry Connections:
Close ties with industry partners for internships and job opportunities.Career-Focused Programs:
Programs designed to prepare students for specific careers.Vibrant Campus Community:
Opportunities for student engagement and social interaction.Academic Programs:
BCIT offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Applied & Natural Sciences:
Business, media, computing, and IT.Engineering:
Various engineering disciplines.Health Sciences:
Healthcare and medical programs.Trades & Apprenticeships:
Skilled trades and apprenticeship programs.Flexible Learning:
Online and part-time programs.Microcredentials:
Short-term, specialized programs for skill development.Other:
BCIT is committed to sustainability and social responsibility, with initiatives focused on environmental protection and community engagement. The institution also acknowledges the unceded traditional territories of the Coast Salish Nations.
