ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING ASSIGNMENT
ARBA MINCH UNIVERSITY
INSTITUTE OF WATER TECHINOLOGY
Faculty of Water Supply and Environmental Engineering
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Part I: Give a detail explanation for the questions followed by scenarios presented
Case study 1: Hydroelectric dam construction
Scenario:
A large-scale hydroelectric dam is proposed to meet energy needs in growing region. The project
is expected to displace local communities, affect biodiversity, and alter water flow downstream.
1. What are the primary environmental impacts of building hydroelectric dam on the local
ecosystem and downstream areas?
2. How engineers minimize biodiversity loss during the construction and operation of the
dam?
3. What alternative energy solutions could meet the region’s needs while reducing
environmental damage?
Case study 2: Highway construction through a forest reserve
Scenario:
A highway is proposed through a protected forest reserve to reduce travel time between
cities. Concerns arise about habitat fragmentation and increased pollution.
1. How does infrastructure development like highways contribute to habitat fragmentation?
2. Discuss mitigation measures to minimize environmental impact.
3. Are there alternative routes or transportation methods that could achieve the same goals
with less environmental disruption?
Part II: Give a precise answer for the following questions:
1. How can civil engineers optimize the design of waste collection and transportation system
to minimize costs and environmental impact?
2. What is the difference between sanitary landfills, open dumping, and incineration as
methods of waste disposal?
3. How can civil engineers integrate waste management into urban planning for sustainable
cities?
4. What are the environmental and health risk associated with electronic (e-waste) and
medical waste?
5. What are the primary sources of noise pollution in urban areas caused by civil engineering
projects?
6. What considerations should civil engineers take when planning projects near sensitive
areas like schools and hospitals?
7. What tools and methods are commonly used to monitor noise pollution on construction
site?
8. What are the challenges in assessing pollution risks in highly urbanized or ecologically
sensitive areas?
9. What are the main types of pollution risks associated with civil engineering projects?
10. How can incomplete or unreliable environmental data affect pollution risk assessment
outcomes, and how can this be mitigated?
