The module explores the deep interconnection between water and energy systems. It covers the water and carbon cycles, emphasizing resource availability, human impact, and climate change. The course examines technologies for drinking water and wastewater treatment, focusing on their energy demands. It also addresses fossil fuels and renewables, highlighting water usage in energy production. Hydrogen is presented as a clean alternative to fossil fuels. Finally, the course investigates the mutual dependence of energy and water, and their influence on food production and environmental sustainability.

The course is divided in 6 classes of 2 hours each.
Session 1 (2 hours). Water and its importance. Cycle of water. Carbon and its importance. Cycle of carbon. Water and Carbon as greenhouse gas and their effects on global warming.
Session 2 (2 hours). Wastewater treatment. Large scale and small-scale treatment plant. Energy used.
Session 3 (2 hours). Drinking water treatment. Large scale and small scale. Energy used.
Session 4 (2 hours). Energy production and utilization. Fossil vs Renewable energies: advantages and disadvantages, outlook and perspectives.
Session 5 (2 hours). Energy for water and water for energy. Mass and Energy balance with roadmap.
Session 6 (2 hours). Water-Energy-Food Nexus.
 

The holder of this Badge has acquired the following SKILLS: 
promoting sustainability;
•    promoting environmental awareness;
•    critically reflecting on the topic of water sustainability;
•    critically reflecting on the topic of anthropogenic emissions;
•    understanding the management and use of water resources for their conscious and sustainable use;
•    understanding the management and use of natural and fossil resources for the production of electricity;
•    understanding the inextricable nexus between water and energy;
•    understanding how the water-energy nexus can also impact food, the environment, and other related aspects;

and the following SOFT SKILLS:
•    demonstrating willingness to learn;
•    thinking critically;
•    thinking analytically;
•    thinking holistically;
•    thinking proactively;
•    identifying problems;
•    attending to detail;
•    memorising information;
•    making decisions;
•    evaluating environmental impact of personal behaviour;
•    active listening.

The holder of this Badge has also gained KNOWLEDGE regarding:
•    water cycles and water footprint;
•    carbon cycle and carbon footprint;
•    anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions;
•    climate change and latest IPCC report (2022);
•    wastewater treatment plants; 
•    drinking water treatment plants, including desalination;
•    energy consumption and electricity production from fossil and renewable sources;
•    hydrogen as energy carrier;
•    the Water-Energy nexus and their inextricable connection.

• Understand the core concepts of environmental sustainability, industrial ecology, and pollution prevention.
• Analyze the environmental impact of industrial products and processes using a systems-based approach.
• Apply methods and tools for designing and evaluating sustainable processes.
• Develop strategies to minimize the environmental footprint of products and operations.
• Use quantitative techniques to assess environmental performance.
• Strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the context of industrial sustainability.
   

• Goal 2 (Zero hunger);
• Goal 6 (Ensure access to water and sanitation for all);
• Goal 7 (Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy).