Course overview
This course provides an integrated overview of sustainable development from a global perspective, with the aim of conceptualizing how sustainable development can be achieved in government, business and society. Students are introduced to the global and national debates and will examine the origins, scientific evidence, issues, policies, political and legal processes, as well as the obstacles to achieving sustainable development. The interdisciplinary approach highlights the need for a balance between the environmental, economic and social dimensions (the three pillars) of sustainable development through an analysis of the indicators, trends and changing patterns of consumption, production and distribution of resources. Case studies demonstrate the concepts and principles of sustainable development and how they might be incorporated in national and international development projects.
Course learning outcomes
- Reflect on global factors and driving forces that have led to the need to develop sustainable development strategies, and generalize about SD's international relevance
- Consolidate the definitions of sustainable development, and summarize major concepts and principles to demonstrate integrated understanding of the 3 pillars of SD
- Draw conclusions about limitations and implementation barriers to SD, including policy analysis
- Apply the principles of good practice in sustainable development to development proposals and projects to achieve sustainable outcomes
- Evaluate Australia's progress in achieving SD as compared to approaches other world regions and countries
- Interpret and critique various measures and indicators of sustainable development