ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the role of engineering in providing more sustainable processes. The Environmental Protection Agency in the United States and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development have developed various tools for developing products or functions, or producing them in alternative ways. Renewable energy sources refer to sustainable sources such as solar, wind, tidal, wave, geothermal, and biomass. More recent developments in breeder reactors enable more efficient energy production and thus could be a sustainable energy source if safety is ensured. A newer renewable source of energy that is being developed is called osmotic power or salinity gradient energy and involves fresh and salt water. Energy efficiency in buildings is important as it makes up a large portion of energy consumption. Water infrastructure systems must also be improved to enhance water reuse, recovery of resources from biosolids and nutrients, and reduced energy use. Energy can be recovered from wastewater via anaerobic treatment.
