How do we build structures that
have a low impact on the
environment?
Exploring this question through
engineering and design.
Engineering Concept Map
Step 1: Define the Problem
• Create a comfortable living space
without impacting the environment.
– Geology
• Rocks, caves, and soil/sediments
– Hydrology
• Surface and ground water
– Ecology
• Plants, animals and space
Background Research
• What are the characteristics of low impact living?
Specify Requirements
• Conservation
• Small-Scale
Controls
• Customized Site
Design
• Maintenance,
Pollution
Prevention and
Education
Specify Requirements
• Conservation: Preserve native trees, vegetation
and soils. Maintain natural drainage patterns.
• Small-Scale Controls: Mimic natural hydrology
and processes
• Customized Site Design: Ensure each site helps
protect the entire water shed.
• Maintenance, Pollution Prevention and
Education: Reduces pollutant loads and increases
efficiency and longevity. Educates and involves
the public.
Engineering Concept Map
Time to Build: 20 Minutes
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZQ7lZR
gHHo
How do we get from place to place
without polluting the environment?
Exploring this question through
engineering and design.
Step 1: Define the Problem
• Create a vehicle that gets you from
place to place without impacting the
environment.
– Geology
• Rocks, caves, and soil/sediments
– Hydrology
• Surface and ground water
– Ecology
• Plants, animals and space
Background Research
Specify Requirements
• Zero emissions from fossil fuels such as carbon
dioxide.
• Little to no impact on the terrain it covers
during transit or while parked.
• Ability to transport a family of 4 to 5 and have
enough space to travel comfortably.
• Vehicle needs to blend in with its
environment.
Time to Build: 20 Minutes
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZQ7lZR
gHHo
Engineering Concept Map
How do we get food without
using too much or too little?
Exploring this question through
engineering and design.
Step 1: Define the Problem
• Design a garden that can sustain
food and water for a family of 4 to 5
without wasting any food or water to
grow it.
– All the energy that it takes to grow food should
not be wasted.
– All waste products are reused to grow more food.
Background Research
Specify Requirements
• Ability to produce enough food for a family of
4 to 5.
• Fertilize plants without polluting watershed.
• Need to have an idea of how many animals
you will have with your garden.
• All waste from family and animals must be
used.
– Food waste, solid waste, and water waste.
Time to Build: 20 Minutes
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZQ7lZR
gHHo
Engineering Concept Map