Water Planning & an Uncertain Future (ENEN90040)

It is widely recognised that we are now managing our water resources in a non-stationary world. Climate change is affecting the timing and volume of water supply and demands, but the scale of these impacts remains uncertain. How do we best manage our water resources given this uncertain future? This subject will provide an introduction to decision making theory under uncertainty. The subject will cover topics such as

• Decision making theory under uncertainty
• Understanding climate change
• Water supply management under climate change
• Climate change and water demands (discussing impact on agriculture, Environment, Urban, First Nations)
• Understanding climate change in the context of natural variability

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to: 

• ILO 1. Discover the latest relevant literature and relate literature to real life case studies
• ILO 2. Identify and characterise major sources of future uncertainty for decision makers
• ILO 3. Critique existing water policy with reference to current science, decision theory and future uncertainty
• ILO 4. Develop and articulate strategies to manage interests of different stakeholders
• ILO 5. Develop and articulate an appropriate approach to evaluate climate impacts on a water system

Generic skills

• Ability to apply knowledge of science and engineering fundamentals
• Ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution
• Ability to utilise a systems approach to complex problems, design and operational performance
• Capacity for lifelong learning and professional development.