Course overview
This course will introduce students to the relationship between the concept of sustainability and its social, cultural, economic and technological contexts, and the role of art and design in contributing towards sustainability. Students will develop knowledge of definitions and meanings of sustainability; key terms, principles and policies; the historical context of sustainable development; environment and science; pollution and waste; industrial ecology; sustainability and whole systems design; sustainable business practices; consumer behaviour and development. Students will further explore the potential role of art and design in shaping consumer culture into more sustainable practices.
Course learning outcomes
- Understand the history and theory of sustainability in its social, economic and technological contexts
- Articulate the terms, boundaries, and existing tools of sustainability, including how to measure progress through appropriate indicators and systems
- Critically evaluate contemporary examples of sustainability and paradigms of sustainable development in their social, technical and environmental contexts