B2386 - SUSTAINABLE DESIGN OF INDUSTRIAL PLANTS

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and comprehension of the course contents in relation to the sustainable design of production systems. The course allows the student to comprehend theoretical principles, functional schemes and methodologies for measuring, designing and control the sustainability in industrial plant. Skills and capabilities in the application of the previously mentioned contents will be discussed in relation to real industrial cases where operators and machines cooperate. The student learns the tools and methods for the evaluation/measurement of the industrial sustainability in terms of social, environmental and economic impact.

Course contents

Introduction to the concepts of environmental, social and economic sustainability and their relevance in the industrial context.


Analysis of enabling technologies and the general framework of sustainability in industry with particular attention to climate change and resource management.


Analysis of national, European and international contexts to better understand the challenges and opportunities related to sustainability.


Identification and analysis of the impacts of industrial activities on the environment. Use and definition of economic, environmental and social performance indicators (KPIs). The importance of standardization and specificity in measuring and monitoring sustainability.


In-depth study of methodologies such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Material Flow Analysis (MFA) through practical exercises and case studies.


Reduction of environmental impacts through operational improvements, efficiency of structures and eco-design of industrial plants.


Mapping of corporate energy flows and evaluation of environmental impacts linked to energy consumption. Evaluation of the sustainability of plants for the production of energy from renewable sources. Energy efficiency and electrification of industrial plants.


Corporate waste management with focus on prevention, recycling and disposal. Methods for the valorization of waste into by-products and treatment techniques such as compaction and anaerobic digestion. Strategies to minimize waste generated by production processes and improve sustainability.


Analysis of impacts and logistics and transport for corporate sustainability. Modes of transport and greenhouse gas emissions. Performance indicators and emissions per tonne transported. Impact of packaging on logistics operations.


Practical exercises on measuring sustainability and formulating transition proposals.

Readings/Bibliography

Lecture notes on my personal website.

Teaching methods

Theory lessons will always be accompanied by exercises on real cases. Seminars held by specialists in the sector will also be activated. Guided visits to the company will be carried out in order to delve deeper into the topics covered in class.

Assessment methods

The exam includes a written test consisting of two theory questions and an exercise, for a total duration of approximately 1.5 hours.


The learning assessment checks the quality of the achievement of the training objectives of the course with particular regard to:


1. Knowledge of the criteria for the sustainable design of industrial plants.


2. Knowledge of the criteria for reducing environmental and social impacts in the management of industrial plants.


3. Knowledge of methods to guide a company on a transition path towards environmental and social sustainability.


The learning assessment consists of a written exam lasting 90 minutes which includes:


- two open-ended questions in which the student is asked to explain concepts, demonstrations and functional principles of the sustainable design of industrial plants.


- a numerical exercise for which the use of a calculator is required.


The grade is expressed in thirtieths: the minimum grade is 18/30, the maximum grade is 30/30 with honours. The minimum grade for passing the exam is assigned if knowledge of all the topics being tested is verified and there are no serious gaps.


The maximum scores assigned to each question and exercise are equally balanced.


The test calendar is made available well in advance on the AlmaEsami web platform of the University of Bologna.


Students who intend to take the test must first register on the list of the chosen exam and must show an identification document on the day of the exam.


After the correction, at the discretion of the teacher, an oral study will be possible.

Teaching tools

Projected slides and bench devices shown in class.

Office hours

See the website of Augusto Bianchini