Sustainable Materials and Construction Practices

Unit code: NEC2002 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEF1004 - Principles of Structural Mechanics; or
NEF1205 - Engineering Fundamentals
NEC2001 - Mechanics of Materials; or
NEC2102 - Solid Mechanics
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

In this unit you will explore how innovative materials and sustainable practices can revolutionise the built environment, reducing environmental impact while enhancing efficiency and resilience. This unit equips you with the knowledge and tools you need to evaluate, select, and implement sustainable materials and techniques in civil engineering projects.

Through engaging workshops, hands-on activities, and real-world case studies, you will delve into key topics such as sustainable material selection, energy-efficient construction techniques, and strategies for waste management and recycling. You will also gain practical experience using tools like Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Computer Aided Design (CAD) or Building Information Modelling (BIM) to evaluate the environmental impact of material choices and develop innovative solutions aligned with circular economy principles.

By the end of this unit, you will have developed skills in critically assessing and applying sustainable practices in construction, with a focus on contributing to a more efficient, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible built environment. Whether you are selecting materials, designing processes, or implementing innovative construction technologies, this unit will prepare you to make informed and impactful decisions in your future career as a civil engineer.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Evaluate and select construction materials based on sustainability, performance, and project context;
  2. Justify sustainable practices in construction processes and materials management using evidence-based reasoning;
  3. Assess the environmental impacts of material choices through life cycle thinking and in accordance with regulatory considerations; and
  4. Develop strategies to reduce waste, improve energy efficiency, and embed circular economy and restorative and regenerative principles into construction practice, demonstrating teamwork, critical thinking, and effective communication.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 20%
Development of a sustainable construction plan using circular economy principles and innovative technologies. (Individual) (1000 words)
Assessment type: Case Study
|
Grade: 40%
A case study report analysing real-world sustainable construction projects. (Individual) (2000 words)
Assessment type: Assignment
|
Grade: 40%
A sustainable construction plan using circular economy principles and innovative technologies, including presentation. (Group) (2000 words)

Report: Students perform detailed environmental impact analyses on selected construction materials or methods. The focus is on the process and decision making.

Case Study: In this secure assessment students analyse real-world sustainable construction projects using unique local contexts not widely available online and personal experiences, with in class progressive milestone checks. These milestones are recorded and incorporated into the overall marking process.

Assignment: This secure assessment ensures accountability through structured reflection, documented collaboration, detailed explanation of techniques and presentation of findings. In-class progressive milestone checks that are linked to individual students will also be used to enhance assessment security. These milestones are recorded and incorporated into the overall marking process. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further support the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil Engineering)
NHEC | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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