Water Challenges and Sustainable Solutions

Course Description

"Water Challenges and Sustainable Solutions" is an innovative and comprehensive course that addresses critical global water issues and presents cutting-edge solutions for sustainable water management. This interdisciplinary program, led by top researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Yale University, and Northwestern University, offers a unique opportunity to explore the complex challenges facing our water resources and learn about groundbreaking technologies being developed to mitigate these issues.

The course focuses on Israel's world-renowned water management expertise, showcasing state-of-the-art technologies such as nutrient recovery from wastewater, desalination of brackish groundwater, soil aquifer treatment (SAT), and recirculated vertical flow constructed wetlands (RVFCW). Students will gain a deep understanding of the intricate processes water undergoes from source to tap and from domestic use to wastewater treatment.

What students will learn

  • Advanced knowledge and insights from world-leading water researchers
  • Deep understanding of global water challenges facing human society
  • Familiarity with local water issues worldwide through peer-to-peer learning
  • Exploration of technological solutions for ensuring water and sanitation for all
  • Design skills for wastewater treatment systems, including membrane permeability and performance analysis
  • A multidisciplinary approach encompassing physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, management, and policy

Pre-requisites

This intermediate-level course is designed for second or third-year undergraduate students or graduate students in relevant fields such as environmental studies, natural sciences, geography, engineering, and mathematics.

Course Coverage

  • Global water-related issues and solutions
  • Microbial health risks in drinking water
  • Nutrient recovery from wastewater
  • Membrane-based water treatment technologies
  • Seawater and brackish water desalination
  • Fouling in water treatment technologies
  • Onsite water treatment solutions
  • Vadose zone processes
  • Surface-groundwater interactions
  • Transboundary water management

Who this course is for

This course is ideal for students, professionals, and researchers interested in environmental studies, water resource management, sustainable development, and innovative water technologies. It is particularly suitable for those looking to understand and address global water challenges, develop sustainable water management strategies, and explore cutting-edge solutions in water treatment and reuse.

Real-world Applications

  • Developing sustainable water management strategies for communities and organizations
  • Designing and implementing innovative water treatment systems
  • Addressing water scarcity issues in various geographical contexts
  • Mitigating water pollution and improving water quality
  • Conducting research on emerging water technologies
  • Advising on policy decisions related to water resource management
  • Collaborating on international water management projects
  • Implementing water reuse solutions in agriculture and industry
  • Addressing transboundary water issues and fostering cooperation
  • Developing strategies to protect and restore aquatic ecosystems

Syllabus

Module 1: Global Water Related Issues and Solutions
Module 2: Microbial Health Risks in Drinking Water
Module 3: Nutrients in Wastewater
Module 4: Membrane-Based Water Treatment Technologies
Module 5: Seawater and Brackish Water Desalination
Module 6: Fouling in Water Treatments Technologies
Module 7: Onsite Water Treatment
Module 8: The Vadose Zone
Module 9: Surface-Groundwater Interactions
Module 10: Transboundary Water Management

This comprehensive course offers a unique opportunity to gain expertise in cutting-edge water technologies and sustainable water management practices, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to address one of the most pressing global challenges of our time.