Usf greenwork internships 2016

International Cleantech Research and Deployment Internships University of South Florida - Patel College of Global Sustainability

Belize, Hawaii, Vietnam

At Greenwork, we believe that the green economy is a new and rapidly expanding opportunity for empowerment and employment, while also building our collective capacity to sustainably power our homes, our industries, and our future. The problem to solving challenges in poverty, sustainability, and community resilience is not a lack of financial capital, technical expertise, or leadership skills – it is a lack of collaboration and an effective mechanism for matching resources to communities and projects that would thrive given capacity and support. We convene partners across cultures and sectors to collaborate on initiatives that foster positive social and environmental impact. Our initiatives support local leadership, bridge targeted resources, and promote benefits for all stakeholders.

Students involved in Greenwork initiatives will gain firsthand experience in international cleantech research and deployment. We work with institutions and students to develop customized learning and work experiences that foster global leadership, provide practical experience, and create sustainable impact.

This proposed cross-­‐sector venture of the University of South Florida and Greenwork establishes a model framework for assessing sites for cleantech company expansion abroad, corporate involvement in development projects globally, and foundation investment in sustainability initiatives. A systematic, research-­‐based approach to exploring applications for clean technologies in developing countries and low-­‐income communities would be a valuable tool for a cleantech company and other businesses actively expanding the green economy.

This proposal contains seven project sites in three different regions for systematic research and/or feasibility studies as a part of a three-­‐phase project model to deploy technology. These projects will be driven by a cross-­‐sector collaboration between the University of South Florida and Greenwork.

USF, as an innovation-­‐driven university and leader in sustainability, will bring technical and research expertise. Greenwork, a division of Peacework, will support in the field as a global NGO with trusted community partnerships in over 25 countries, cultural knowledge, and a 26-­‐year track

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record of skilled project development with over 90 institutions of higher education and corporations.

This document briefly outlines the general model and scope of project site opportunities as well as the roles and responsibilities of each entity, and may be modified to meet the educational, development, and business goals of all participating.

Methodology

Three phases have been identified for optimal USF involvement in the creation of research and feasibility studies for the development and deployment of clean technology and sustainability projects.

1. Phase One-­‐ A team of USF graduate students expands upon Greenwork’s Research/Feasibility Study Model and conducts an in-­‐field study.

2. Phase Two-­‐ USF graduate students and Greenwork complete a report on the feasibility study findings and develop a presentation on the project. USF and Greenwork co-­‐present at various cleantech, global development, and regional events.

3. Phase Three-­‐ A cleantech company is secured to invest in future technology deployment in phase one identified communities. USF graduate students work alongside Greenwork and cleantech partner to conduct further studies and/or deploy technology.

Phase One -­‐ Research Feasibility Study

Phase one would entail a group of 2-­‐4 graduate students conduct a research and/or technology deployment feasibility study at one of the possible listed sites. Greenwork staff would provide a baseline template of needs of the research/feasibility study. Graduate students with supervision of a faculty member from the Patel College would add on and customize the Greenwork template to build the best possible study with the skills of those involved, time frame of in-­‐field study, and needs of the university degree requirements.

University of South Florida

USF would sponsor a team of high-­‐performing graduate students to conduct a detailed research or feasibility study for future technology deployment or project development. The team would plan the study under the supervision of a faculty member in the Patel College of Global Sustainability at USF. As an example of the baseline feasibility study needs for any of the projects, the students would include the following as determined in consultation with Greenwork in their field study.

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Community demographics Local business, organization, or location inventory and environment o Number of potential small to medium size client businesses o Number of potential client government offices o Number of potential client institutions such as schools o Number of potential client service institutions such as hospitals o Energy cost and cost benefit of conversion o Cost comparison with existing energy sources for lighting Residential inventory and environment

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o Description of potential client residences by city sector o Energy cost and cost benefit of conversion o Cost comparison with existing energy sources for lighting o Energy affordability by population group or city sector Market challenges o Cost comparison of installation and conversion o Competition and cost comparison with the local electric suppliers o Regulatory restrictions, taxes, import and customs requirements, visas, business operations requirements o Financing o Cost benefit analysis o Environmental factors o Available labor, management, training, and technical support Social Impact Assessment o Socio-­‐economic determinants o Social organization o Access to services, information, and societal participation for marginalized groups o Factors influencing access to employment

Greenwork

Greenwork would provide advance and logistical support for the USF team operations, including the following.

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Consultation on site assessment, contacts, and community relationships o Briefing on cultural nuances and local customs and traditions o Monitoring the feasibility study and follow-­‐up o Comprehensive risk assessment o On-­‐site staffing, if and when needed o Advance coordination and preparation for the feasibility study Inventory and business introductions o Client contacts in the community o Government clients and regulatory offices in the community o Labor and training resources Logistics o Travel o Local transportation o Accommodations o Global liability and personal risk insurance coverage o Global comprehensive medical insurance coverage o Security o US Embassy communications o Briefing of all participants on health, safety, logistics, and relationships

Phase Two -­‐ Presenting on Research, Cleantech Networking

The USF graduate students will complete a report on their findings and with Greenwork support will develop a presentation on the project as a whole. As a team Greenwork and USF graduate

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students will co-­‐present at a variety of events, with the objective of connecting to relevant cleantech partners for future deployment in the communities studied in phase one. This phase will additionally provide USF graduate students with the opportunity to apply their learning, network, and explore options for internships to fulfil their degree requirements and potential job opportunities after graduation.

University of South Florida

USF graduate students would complete a report based on the results of the in-­‐field feasibility study.

In collaboration with Greenwork these students would also develop a presentation to be co-­‐ presented at various global events.

USF students will gain experience in: 1. Networking in high volume events within their chosen field 2. Opportunities to develop and present on their findings to cleantech deployment investors and potential employers 3. Gain experience in how to discuss their field research work, methodology, and results in a business setting

Greenwork

Greenwork will identify and secure speaking engagements to co-­‐present the phase one feasibility study results and project model alongside USF graduate students. Greenwork will utilize its existing and growing networks with cleantech company associations, governments, foundations, and regional groups to create high exposure opportunities for USF graduate students to promote the partnership project and gain unique access to larger networks within their fields of study.

Phase Three -­‐ Partnerships and Deployment

In the third and final phase a cleantech company, corporation, or foundation supporting partner is secured to utilize the findings in the phase one feasibility study to deploy technology in the designated communities. Greenwork, USF, and the supporting partner establish a partnership with parameters on number of years, projects, funds, and other resources required of all three parties.

Additional studies are developed and completed with leadership from the supporting partner.

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BELIZE Belize is a small country on the Caribbean coast of Central America with a mixture of Caribbean and Latin American influences, superimposed on an English colonial background. Belize’s population of nearly 350,000 is comprised of many languages and ethnic backgrounds. Belize’s small economy is mostly based on agriculture, agro-­‐based industry, and tourism. Despite its cultural and ecological resources, Belize is burdened by high foreign debt and income inequality, the effects of which can be seen in a lack of financial resources for education, health, and social services. The following research and feasibility studies respond to challenges in energy and waste management and use in Belize City, the most populated place in the country. Addressing challenges in energy and waste management equally address economic and social inequities in Belize’s most underserved populations. The unemployment rate in Belize is currently at 14%, and youth making up the largest portion of that percentage. These research projects will directly impact opportunities for schools, public sector projects, and community development needs by identifying ways to reduce spending on energy and waste while highlighting opportunities for job creation and new frontiers for the green economy within Belize.

Sample Itinerary and Budget Sample four-­‐week itinerary for both Research/ Feasibility Studies in Belize City, Belize.

Pre trip:

Week 1:

Week 2-­‐3:

Week 4:

Post Trip:

Greenwork provides a Research/Feasibility Study template Greenwork provides remote and in-­‐person preparation sessions on logistics, culture, contextual background to the study, and information on support resources USF team customizes the research/feasibility study based on community and technology Greenwork staff greets students at arrival in Belize City, Belize Team meets with local support contacts and settles into community Greenwork staff and local partners provide orientation to area and resources Team begins Research Study

(Greenwork Staff is available for support but not directly with the group) Team conducts Research Study Group goes on excursions and/or has free time on the weekends

(Greenwork Staff joins back up with the team) Team wraps up any remaining in field research Completes an initial assessment of the project and provides a presentation to local community partners on the findings Closing event with local community support partners Team travels back to the United States

Greenwork and USF debrief on phase one in-­‐field work USF students complete data organization and study report Greenwork and USF collaboratively develop a presentation based on report Greenwork organizes events and meetings for co-­‐presentations

Estimated Budget per Person based on a four-­‐week study in country

$2000 (includes all accommodations, meals, and transportation) $1.50 per day per person for $1M Medical Insurance

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$39 per person for $2M Liability Insurance $500 Greenwork advance planning and administration $300 Greenwork in-­‐country staff support $700 per person estimated for airfare (as of November 18, 2015)

Total Budget Projection $3,584 per person – based on a 30-­‐day project with airfare

Energy Efficiency

PATEL COLLEGE INTERNSHIP LINE: Energy Efficiency in Belize RESEARCH PROJECT: To conduct a feasibility study of cleantech alternatives for school energy use in Belize City.

PARTNER ORGANIZATION: Greenwork LOCATION: Belize City, Belize LENGTH: minimum 4 weeks NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 2-­‐4

Topic The goal of this applied research and internship opportunity is to conduct a feasibility study of schools in Belize City to determine affordable, sustainable energy use to support the development and maintenance of school computer labs and general school energy needs. The research will determine opportunities for solar photovoltaic systems and low-­‐energy fixtures, and/or other cleantech applications for a systematic reduction in energy costs.

Highlights ● Hands on field research of school sites for solar photovoltaic systems and low-­‐energy fixtures ● Cross-­‐cultural opportunities in Belize ● Real world experience in presentation development and public speaking ● Exposure to a global cleantech network

Brief Description Energy costs are one of the greatest hindrances to development in low-­‐income and remote areas where expensive fossil fuels are imported to produce electricity. In regions such as the Caribbean, nations and communities have identified the need for alternative and innovative means for producing, harnessing, and utilizing energy as a top priority for future growth and stability. For a school it can be the difference in a feeding program, classroom materials, or the addition of a computer lab to improve student access to technology education. Simply put, beyond the economic bottom line the benefits of reducing electricity spending in low-­‐income and rural communities has the ability to energize new growth, and empower people to achieve their goals and meet their true potential throughout the world.

Solar photovoltaic systems and low-­‐energy fixtures are quickly becoming some of the most cost effective and globally available renewable energy sources in the green economy. This research feasibility study will be conducted on 15-­‐20 schools in Belize City to understand the scope of work and resources to create sustainable energy sources for computer labs in schools and general energy needs.

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Methodology Please see methodology for all projects above.

Waste Management

PATEL COLLEGE OF GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP LINE: Waste Management in Belize RESEARCH PROJECT: To conduct a research study on the current waste management system in Belize City with a focus on solutions to create a more sustainable and cost effective system.

PARTNER ORGANIZATION: Greenwork LOCATION: Belize City, Belize LENGTH: minimum 4 weeks NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 2-­‐4

Topic The goal of this applied research and internship opportunity is to conduct a research study on the current waste management system in Belize City and to develop solution ideas based on findings in the research for future projects and cleantech infrastructure development.

Highlights ● Hands on field research of waste management in Belize and solutions to redirect into energy while reducing cost ● Cross-­‐cultural opportunities in Belize ● Real world experience in presentation development and public speaking ● Exposure to a global cleantech network

Brief Description Management of waste is a massive economic burden to Belize City -­‐ costing nearly 50% of the city’s budget to “take care” of the waste generated. Waste being defined as items or material of any kind which the original owner no longer will use, the importance of this research project is to identify plausible and affordable alternative systems of Belize City waste management. Energy itself is an expensive commodity throughout the Caribbean region, Belize being no exception. The possibility of reusing waste in Belize City to generate energy will have long-­‐term beneficial impact in the local communities by creating jobs, reducing waste, and opening room in the city’s budget to address other pressing matters in the community.

Methodology Please see methodology for all projects above.

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KAUAI, HAWAII Behind the incredibly beautiful, natural landscapes and endearing aloha culture of Hawai`i, there is a critical food access and sustainability issue not often seen by tourists and visitors. The island of Kaua`i, Hawai`i is the most remote inhabited landmass in the U.S., and even with year-­‐round sunshine and rainfall, the aptly named “Garden Isle” currently imports approximately 90% of its food supply. In the event of any kind of emergency the island has enough food for just a week, and being at the very end of a 45-­‐day fossil fuel supply chain, this is a major health and economic challenge and concern for local communities.

Hawaii has a rich culture of traditional methods of natural and sustainable agriculture that due to various factors such as a population increase and the expansion of larger scale agriculture industries has partially been lost within communities. Though there have been great economic benefits to the area for diversifying food production sources, aspects of Kaua’i’s way of life have faced increased challenges in health, cost of living, and access to affordable, fresh produce. Local leaders and community organizations are working alongside Greenwork to bring back Hawaii’s traditional methods of natural and sustainable agriculture to provide healthy and affordable produce while connecting communities to their natural agriculture roots.

Graduate students have the opportunity to conduct Research/Feasibility Studies for three different projects ranging in topics from sustainable agriculture to solar technology in collaboration with Greenwork and local partners in Kauai, Hawaii. These research projects and overall partnership support a collaborative effort to rebuild Hawai`i’s agricultural sustainability, feed its people, and create meaningful, culturally relevant economic development opportunities for its future.

Sample Itinerary and Budget Sample four-­‐week itinerary for a Research/Feasibility Study in any of the four offered internship topics.

Pre trip:

Week 1:

Week 2-­‐3:

Week 4:

Greenwork provides a Research/Feasibility Study template Greenwork provides remote and in-­‐person preparation sessions on logistics, culture, contextual background to the study, and information on support resources USF team customizes the research/feasibility study based on community and technology Greenwork staff greets students at arrival in Lihue International Airport in Kauai, Hawaii Team meets with local support contacts and settles into community Greenwork staff and local partners provide orientation to area and resources Team begins Research Study

(Greenwork Staff is available for support but not directly with the group) Team conducts Research Study Group goes on excursions and/or has free time on the weekends

(Greenwork Staff joins back up with the team) Team wraps up any remaining in field research Completes an initial assessment of the project and provides a presentation to local community partners on the findings Closing event with local community support partners Team travels back to the mainland United States

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Post Trip:

Greenwork and USF debrief on phase one in-­‐field work USF students complete data organization and study report Greenwork and USF collaboratively develop a presentation based on report Greenwork organizes events and meetings for co-­‐presentations

Estimated Budget per Person based on a four-­‐week study in Kauai, Hawaii

$2000 (includes all accommodations, meals, and transportation) $1.50 per day per person for $1M Medical Insurance $39 per person for $2M Liability Insurance $500 Greenwork advance planning and administration $300 Greenwork in-­‐country staff support $820 per person estimated for airfare (as of November 18, 2015)

Total Budget Projection $3,704 per person – based on a 30-­‐day project with airfare

Sustainable Agriculture

PATEL COLLEGE OF GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP LINE: Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security in Kauai, Hawaii RESEARCH PROJECT: To conduct a research project on feasible sustainable agriculture and food security programs throughout the island of Kauai through farms, schools, and community gardens.

PARTNER ORGANIZATION: Greenwork LOCATION: Kauai, Hawaii (US) LENGTH: minimum 4 weeks NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 2-­‐4

Topic The goal of this applied research and internship opportunity is to conduct a research project on feasible sustainable agriculture and food security programs throughout the island of Kauai through farms, schools, and community gardens. Specifically looking at the development of school and community orchard installations, food forests, and youth gardens.

Highlights ● Hands on field research of sustainable agriculture and food security ● Cross-­‐cultural opportunities in Kauai ● Real world experience in presentation development and public speaking ● Exposure to a global cleantech network

Brief Description Kaua’i faces large-­‐scale challenges in providing local communities with affordable, sustainable, healthy food. Kaua`i is an isolated island over 90% reliant on outside food, and an island that has been hard hit by global economic events. As stated by the Rocky Mountain Institute in their study of

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Hawai`i Island, “The low local market share (15 percent) for food and the high price residents of Hawai`i pay for it (22 percent of average income, opposed to 13 percent on the mainland) are problems that degrade the Island’s economic and environmental sustainability, as well as quality of life”. By supporting local leaders and organizations working towards sustainable and diverse agriculture on Kauai projects could result in increased self-­‐sufficiency of businesses, reduced dependence on imports, economic diversification, decreased vulnerability to food or oil supply disruptions, supporting open spaces and protecting local environment, promotion of healthy lifestyles and improved nutrition in local communities, and support local tourism. Studying the most cost-­‐effective and resource friendly methods for sustainable agriculture through a school and community network will greatly contribute to the trajectory of local agriculture projects.

Aquaponic Systems in Schools and Farms

PATEL COLLEGE OF GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP LINE: Aquaponic agriculture in Kauai, Hawaii RESEARCH PROJECT: To conduct a research and feasibility study on the development and use of simple and affordable aquaponic systems for school and farm agriculture needs.

PARTNER ORGANIZATION: Greenwork LOCATION: Kauai, Hawaii (US) LENGTH: minimum 4 weeks NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 2-­‐4

Topic The goal of this applied research and internship opportunity is to conduct a feasibility study on the development and use of simple and affordable aquaponic systems for schools and farms in Kauai.

Though Kauai is known as the “garden island,” the land can be challenging to farm in and rquires a lot of resources. The use of aquaponic systems serves as both a sustainable alternative to land agriculture but also creates a living classroom for students and community members.

Highlights ● Hands on field research of aquaponic systems for schools and farms ● Cross-­‐cultural opportunities in Kauai ● Real world experience in presentation development and public speaking ● Exposure to a global cleantech network

Brief Description As food security is a major concern and economic burden for communities throughout Kauai, finding more than one method or alternative to current agricultural practices is a necessity.

Increasingly farmers and school garden programs are developing aquaponic systems to best utilize natural resources, save energy, and create new agricultural opportunities. For this research project, graduate students will conduct a study of current aquaponic infrastructure, research affordable and simple models of aquaponic systems, and determine the baseline requirements of a school or farm to feasibly construct and maintain a system.

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Methodology Please see methodology for all projects above.

Off-­‐grid Solar Photovoltaic Systems

PATEL COLLEGE OF GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP LINE: Solar Energy Opportunities in Kauai, Hawaii RESEARCH PROJECT: To conduct a feasibility study on the potential scope of off-­‐grid solar photovoltaic systems to be used on farms, community buildings, and homes in Kauai.

PARTNER ORGANIZATION: Greenwork LOCATION: Kauai, Hawaii (US) LENGTH: minimum 4 weeks NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 2-­‐4

Topic The goal of this applied research and internship opportunity is to conduct a feasibility study of baseline requirements to deploy affordable, sustainable energy use through off-­‐grid solar photovoltaic systems for farms, community buildings, and homes. The research will determine opportunities for off-­‐grid solar photovoltaic systems, and/or other cleantech applications for a systematic reduction in energy costs.

Highlights ● Hands on field research of off-­‐grid solar photovoltaic systems ● Cross-­‐cultural opportunities in Kauai ● Real world experience in presentation development and public speaking ● Exposure to a global cleantech network

Brief Description Energy costs are one of the greatest hindrances to development in low-­‐income and remote areas where expensive fossil fuels are imported to produce electricity. In areas such as the Hawaiian islands, communities have identified the need for alternative and innovative means for producing, harnessing, and utilizing energy as a top priority for future growth and stability. In the event of any kind of emergency the island has enough food for just a week, and being at the very end of a 45-­‐day fossil fuel supply chain, this is a major energy, health, and economic challenge and concern for local communities. For farmers, community members, and some schools the benefits for using off-­‐grid solar systems is clear. Simply put, beyond the economic bottom line the benefits of reducing electricity spending in low-­‐income and rural communities has the ability to energize new growth, and empower people to achieve their goals and meet their true potential throughout the world.

Solar photovoltaic systems are quickly becoming some of the most cost effective and globally available renewable energy sources in the green economy. This research feasibility study will be conducted to understand the scope of work and resources to create sustainable energy sources for farms and schools seeking energy independence.

Methodology Please see methodology for all projects above.

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VIETNAM While Vietnam’s economic development has allowed more than 35 million people to get out of poverty since the early 1990s, nearly 12 percent of the country’s 92 million people are still living below the national poverty line of about $20 USD per month. The lack of access to safe and decent homes and affordable energy are among the greatest challenges that low-­‐income communities face.

Being one of the most disaster-­‐prone countries in the world, Vietnam is also expected to be heavily affected by climate change and rising sea level. Seven out of ten Vietnamese people already face the risk of typhoons, torrential storms and flooding in Vietnam every year. Low-­‐income families are therefore trapped in annual cycle of repairs as they are most likely to live in high-­‐risk areas and less resilient structures.

Additionally, energy access and waste management are among the most pressing issues facing people in rural Vietnam. The average farming family only earns about $1200 USD annually, however, up to 17% of that, or $200 USD, is spent buying gas for cooking. For families that cannot afford to use gas, the responsibility of collecting firewood for cooking needs fall on women and children, who might otherwise spend this time at school or in income-­‐generating and other social activities. The traditional integrated farming system common in rural Vietnam, while effective in raising the income of families, poses potential threat to the sanitary condition and health of the local community. This is due to raw manure being disposed directly into fish ponds or rice fields as fertilizer, leading to contamination of water sources and soil. Recognizing this dual challenge, local and national leadership has been promoting biogas technology to rural families to integrate into their existing farming system. With a life-­‐span of an estimated fifteen years, biogas digesters can simultaneously use human or animal waste to create biogas for cooking or lighting needs and process them into safe organic fertilizer, thus reducing the reliance on fossil fuel-­‐based energy and limit contamination. However, the lack of financing schemes in rural communities prevent many families from adopting this simple but powerful technology.

Graduate students would have the opportunity to study one of these two sustainability challenges in Vietnam through systematic research/feasibility studies. The results of these studies will be used to develop investment and deployment partnerships to expand the reach of sustainable housing and affordable, renewable energy with communities in the Mekong Delta or Central Coast.

Sample Itinerary and Budget Sample four-­‐week itinerary for a Phase One Feasibility Study in the Mekong Delta or Central Coast

Pre trip:

Week 1:

Week 2-­‐3:

Greenwork provides a Research/Feasibility Study template Greenwork provides remote and in-­‐person preparation sessions on logistics, culture, contextual background to the study, and information on support resources USF team customizes the research/feasibility study based on community and technology Greenwork staff greets students at arrival in Vietnam Team meets with local support contacts and settles into community Greenwork staff and local partners provide orientation to area and resources Team begins Research Study

(Greenwork Staff is available for support but not directly with the group) Team conducts Research Study

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Week 4:

Group goes on excursions and/or has free time on the weekends

(Greenwork Staff joins back up with the team) Team wraps up any remaining in field research Completes an initial assessment of the project and provides a presentation to local community partners on the findings Closing event with local community support partners Team travels back to the United States

Post Trip:

Greenwork and USF debrief on phase one in-­‐field work USF students complete data organization and study report Greenwork and USF collaboratively develop a presentation based on report Greenwork organizes events and meetings for co-­‐presentations

Estimated Budget per Person based on a four-­‐week study in country

$2700 (includes all accommodations, meals, and transportation) $1.50 per day per person for $1M Medical Insurance $39 per person for $2M Liability Insurance $350 Greenwork advance planning and administration $350 Greenwork in-­‐country staff support $1,500 per person estimated for airfare

Total Budget Projection $4,984 per person – based on a 30-­‐day project with airfare

Sustainable Housing

PATEL COLLEGE OF GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP LINE: Community Resilience in Vietnam RESEARCH PROJECT: To research the scope and development for sustainable and affordable smart design housing in low-­‐income communities in Vietnam.

PARTNER ORGANIZATION: Greenwork LOCATION: Mekong Delta and Central Coast LENGTH: minimum 3 weeks NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 2-­‐4

Topic The goal of this applied research and internship opportunity is to conduct a feasibility study of communities in the Mekong Delta and Central Coast of Vietnam to determine how to best build affordable and sustainable housing that supports resilient communities, environmentally and economically, in rural Vietnam. This research will support in designing and implementing practices

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that can increase community adaptability to climate change in the Mekong Delta, such as sustainable housing construction, farming techniques, and green energy.

Highlights ● Hands on field research of ● Cross-­‐cultural opportunities in Vietnam ● Real world experience in presentation development and public speaking ● Exposure to a global cleantech network

Brief Description The Mekong Delta and the Central Coast are two regions with high concentration of rural communities and are among the most vulnerable to disasters and impacts of climate change. Many families who reside in these regions are among the 7 million people (or about 8 percent of the Vietnamese population) who are currently living in temporary or substandard housing. Their homes, constructed with materials such as bamboo, mud and coconut leaves, are susceptible to structural damages caused by disasters and prevent them from having clean water and safe sanitation. These families, already having very little savings from their incomes, are trapped in annual cycle of home repairs or relocation to temporary shelter. This unstable living condition is detrimental to their physical and mental health, their income-­‐generating prospects, and their children’s educational outcomes.

Sustainable and affordable housing for low-­‐income communities is one of the country’s top development priorities, especially for rural areas. Access to well-­‐built homes not only provides families with safe shelter but also creates a base from which to foster social inclusion, open small businesses, and build community resilience to the impacts of climate change. This research will be conducted in partnership with community organizations in the Mekong Delta and Central Coast of Vietnam to understand the scope of work and resources needed to strategically build affordable and sustainable housing that supports resilient communities in rural Vietnam.

Methodology Please see methodology for all projects above.

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Clean Energy and Biogas Technology

PATEL COLLEGE OF GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY INTERNSHIP LINE: Clean Energy and Biogas Technology in Vietnam RESEARCH PROJECT: To research the impacts of biogas technology and potential to scale up biogas production in rural Vietnam while creating local employment opportunities.

PARTNER ORGANIZATION: Greenwork LOCATION: Mekong Delta and Central Coast LENGTH: minimum 3 weeks NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 2-­‐4

Topic The goal of this applied research and internship opportunity is to evaluate the application and effectiveness of biogas technology and support the creation of a biogas sector in the local economy.

This research will determine opportunities for expansion of the biogas sector in Vietnam with an emphasis on creating opportunities through the expansion.

Highlights ● Hands on field research of ● Cross-­‐cultural opportunities in Vietnam ● Real world experience in presentation development and public speaking ● Exposure to a global cleantech network

Brief Description The Mekong Delta is the most important agricultural regions of Vietnam and remains one of its most rural areas, with over 75% of the population classified as rural. Energy access and waste management are among the most pressing issues facing people in rural Vietnam. The average farming family only earns about $1200 USD annually, however, up to 17% of that, or $200 USD, is spent buying gas for cooking. For families that cannot afford to use gas, the responsibility of collecting firewood falls on women and children, who might otherwise spend this time at school or in income-­‐generating activities. In terms of waste management, the traditional integrated farming system common in rural Vietnam disposes raw manure directly into fish ponds or rice fields as fertilizer, leading to the contamination of water sources and soil. This poses a clear threat to the sanitary condition and health of the local community.

Recognizing the potential of biogas technology to address both energy access and waste management, local and national leadership has been promoting biogas technology to rural families to integrate into their existing farming system. This technology enables the community to use human or animal waste to create biogas for cooking or lightning needs and processes the waste into safe organic fertilizer, thus reducing the reliance on fossil fuel-­‐based energy and limiting contamination. This research would analyze the current application and effectiveness of biogas technology, as well as the potential for an expansion of the biogas sector to also create social impact by supporting job creation and educational opportunities.

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GREENWORK PROJECT CONTACTS

Beth Wright, Director beth@peacework.org | 303.974.8626

Beth, currently based in Denver, Colorado is the Director of Greenwork and the Director of Community Engagement for Peacework. She has been working with Peacework since 2012 primarily in Belize, and throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Beth speaks Spanish and has been working in international development since 2010, most notably in Ecuador. She has a BA degree from the University of Colorado in Boulder in International Affairs concentration in Latin America. Her travels for work and otherwise have taken her throughout the world and she has a true passion for community civic engagement at all levels: local, national, and international.

Caitlin Kawaguchi, Operations Manager caitlin@peacework.org | 925.200.5652

Caitlin, currently based in New York, New York, is the Operations Manager at Greenwork. She has been working with Peacework since 2014, first in their Corporate Engagement department and now as a member of the Greenwork team. Caitlin has been working in at the intersection of human rights and community development since 2011, most recently in Myanmar. She has a BA from LIU Global in Global Studies, with concentrations in Human Rights and International Development.

Greenwork

www.greenwork.org info@greenwork.org 620 N. Main St., Suite 306 / Blacksburg, VA 24060-3385

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