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This website features work from the completion of Phase 1 of the SCALES Project.

We are currently seeking partnerships for Phase 2.

Systems Thinking

  • Paper 1

    Please write an essay addressing ONE of the following questions. Your essay should be between 1000 and 1500 words. Please also consider:

    • For this essay, you should use (discuss, reference, quote) at least 5 of the readings from session 1–5.
    • While developing your argument include the analysis of 2–3 case studies (countries/environmental conflicts/regions).
    • You should bring a draft (printed copy of at least 700 words) to session 6.
    • A complete draft (100-1500 words) should be submitted (printed copy) on session 7. This draft is part of your final grade.
    Read more: Paper 1

  • Partnerships/Enterprises

    Third Reflection
    Subject: Waste Management Partnership / Enterprise / Actor

    The third paper is a chance to select either a:

    • Specific actor (for example: Waste Management, Save that Stuff, Wecyclers, Sanergy, Enevo, etc.)
    • Specific partnership (for example: Casella and the City of Cambridge)
    Read more: Partnerships/Enterprises

  • Material Stream

    Second Reflection
    Subject: Difficult Waste Streams

    The goal of this paper is to explore a difficult waste stream by either looking at it through: A specific waste stream and the types of processes / disposal that can be used or evaluating a case study on how a difficult waste stream is disposed in an area.

    Difficult wastes are those which can be harmful to human health or the environment, or where the physical properties of the wastes can create serious handling problems.

    Read more: Material Stream

  • Waste Technology

    First Reflection
    Subject: Waste Management Technology

    Use this reflection to explore a waste management technology with one of three lenses:

    1. Technologies for a specific material stream – Choose one material and examine the technologies used to process / treat that material
    2. Technology Case Study – Choose three areas (cities, communities, government jurisdiction) and compare the technologies used in the three areas
    3. Specific Technology – Explore a technology in depth, its application, scale of use and considerations for purchase and implementation (like cost, size, etc.)
    Read more: Waste Technology

  • Assignment 1: Elemental Case Study

    Small group project exploring the urban/planning implications of water, food, “nature” (however specifically defined), energy, and communications in the Boston area. Each small group will be assigned an “element” to research and document.

    Read more: Assignment 1: Elemental Case Study

Notice something that doesn’t seem right? Want to make a suggestion or provide feedback about how something is classified? 
Please reach out to esi [at] mit.edu and include SCALES Website in the subject of your email.
Feedback and any actions taken with regards to the feedback, will be shared as they are addressed.