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An Engineering Approach to Sustainable Decision Making

Author
Bryck K.
Journal/Series
Environmental Values | Vol. 25 (6), p. 639-662
Date
2016
Source
IUCN (ID: ANA-091212)
Publisher | Place of publication
White Horse Press | Lancaster, UK
ISSN
0963-2719
Document type
Article in periodical
Language
English
Field of application
International
Subject
Environment gen.
Keyword
Climate change Sustainable development Policy/planning Environmental technology
Abstract

Climate change is often tackled via a two-pronged approach of behaviour change and technological advancement. Policy studies and social sciences generally take ownership of influencing behaviours, while natural sciences and engineering tackle generating newer, more efficient technologies. Fusion of these methodologies is severely lacking. Engineers are uniquely situated to contribute to positive environmental action in both technological and behavioural realms. This article explores the psychological mindset of engineers as they make decisions to dissect factors that undermine sustainable behaviour. The Theory of Planned Behaviour, Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis and the Health Belief Model are applied to engineering decision making to develop a methodology for engineers to modify their behaviour to consistently make more sustainable choices, and in turn, assist others by making actions towards sustainability more convenient.