Smart Community Development Framework and Design for Responsible Engineering

Date
2017-05
Authors
Fagundes Veiga Ribeiro, Lucas
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Publisher
Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina
Abstract

Significant attention has been put into the role of technology on addressing global environmental and social issues. Literature shows that the technology governance system must be reframed in order to comply with sustainable development principles. The majority of available technologies are not affordable in developing countries nor in poor and remote communities, which are inadequately served by conventional grids and services. Lack of access to proper technology increases social, health, economic, and environmental vulnerability of those places. The design and implementation of ecologically sustainable systems is proposed as one relevant solution for replacing the conventional systems that address the nexus waterenergy- food, protecting the natural environment and empowering vulnerable communities. Clean Social Technologies (CSTs) have the potential to create this new system due to their appropriateness. Though some progress has been made, more research on technological innovation around CSTs, supportive policies and educational programs are required to tackle the issues and advance the transition of systems. In order to leverage CSTs innovation and implementation, the Smart Community Development Framework and the Design for Responsible Engineering is proposed here. These frameworks integrate several approaches to systematically guide the design and management of development projects, designing and introducing CSTs in vulnerable communities worldwide based on their real needs, and ensuring permanent and sustainable changes. Local leaders, environmentalists, project managers and policy-makers can use the model to collaborate in the formulation of effective action plans and develop projects worldwide. Furthermore, a case study based in the village UniĆ³n Victoria, in Guatemala, validated the framework through a theoretical demonstration. The village has seen increasing vulnerability levels mainly due to the aggravated effects of climate change and the lack of basic resources, and can be greatly benefited by interventions based in this model.

Description
A Thesis Submitted to the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Applied Science in Environmental Systems Engineering, University of Regina. xi, 131 p.
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