Sustainable Development

Twenty-five years on from the first call for sustainable development, we are still struggling with fundamental questions surrounding what it is, how we can usefully characterise it and, most importantly, how to actually achieve it. In this course we critically examine the concept of sustainable development, explore its history, and analyse the present-day challenges it presents. Drawing on international case studies in both developed and developing countries, as well as global initiatives, we investigate the goals of sustainability as they relate to environmental, social and economic goals. Students are introduced to a range of viewpoints, theories and frameworks useful for thinking about and understanding social and environmental change in the context of sustainable development. We explore a range of contemporary sustainability issues, at local, national and global scales. Using case studies and problem-based learning, students draw connections and apply concepts and techniques that may help inform practical solutions and shape our collective future. Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately.