| This thesis offers a rationale and directions for preparing engineers to meet the challenges of sustainable development. More specifically, this study (a) examines various interpretations of sustainable development and articulates a defensible interpretation of its meaning and requirements; (b) investigates the current status of the engineering profession as it pertains to sustainable development; (c) identifies gaps in engineers' knowledge, skills and practices which have implications for engineers' role and effectiveness in sustainable development; and (d) proposes and justifies directions for change in the practice and education of engineers in Canada.;The study proceeds by reviewing the literature of sustainable development, describing the landscape of sustainable development and different perspectives arising out of the tensions between the economy and the environment. This review yields a reasonable and comprehensive interpretation of sustainable development including its goals and basic principles. Subsequently, the study examines the alignment between ideals of sustainable development and engineering.;Next this investigation examines B.C. engineers' current understandings of sustainable development by focussing on engineers' perceptions of (a) the meaning of sustainable development, (b) their roles and responsibilities for sustainable development, (c) knowledge and skill requirements for sustainable development, and (d) adequacy of current knowledge, skills and practices. Other studies of engineers, bearing on the requirements of sustainable development, are drawn upon to enrich understanding of current knowledge, skills and practices.;When compared with the ideals, the findings reveal that engineers' knowledge, skills and/or practices for sustainable development are deficient in a number of areas. Deficiencies include knowledge of contexts, environmental sciences, social sciences; interpersonal, communication and group process skills; education and training. Recommendations for overcoming these deficiencies and better preparing engineers for sustainable development focus on (a) increasing engineers' awareness and understanding of sustainable development; (b) improving knowledge and skills; and (c) improving or developing organizational and educational support. |
