In 2015, the UN launched the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Adopted by 193 member states, the goals represent an important international step in setting humanity on a trajectory towards sustainable development. Within this course, you will get a historical overview of how sustainability has been understood, as well as a thorough introduction to the SDGs – what they are, how progress can be measured, and how the SDGs are relevant for the management of the global systems supporting humanity. The course will examine how various societal actors are responding to and implementing the SDGs.
The Sustainable Development Goals – A global, transdisciplinary vision for the future
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The Sustainable Development Goals – A global, transdisciplinary vision for the future
Instructor: Katherine Richardson
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4.8
(4,545 reviews)
Beginner level
No prior experience required
Flexible schedule
Approx. 10 hours
Learn at your own pace
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Taught in English
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There are 3 modules in this course
In this first module, you will be introduced to the concept of sustainability, its roots, and history of development. The framework of the SDGs is outlined in more detail, and we will discuss what sets them apart from previous international agreements, how we can measure progress and how the goals are interconnected. We will touch upon food systems, as an example of how the SDGs are relevant for - and can be implemented in - global systems through international cooperation.
What's included
3 videos3 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt
In this second module, we will have a more detailed look at the scientific evidence that human activities are influencing the Earth at the planetary level. You will be introduced to the concepts of Anthropocene and Planetary Boundaries. The biosphere (all living organisms or "biodiversity") is arguably just as - or more - important than climate for establishing the environmental conditions we enjoy on Earth, but receives much less attention. This module, therefore, will focus on monitoring and managing human impacts on climate and biodiversity as well as the potential consequences of failing to meet the goals of the SDGs relating to climate and biodiversity.
What's included
3 videos2 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt
Where the last module focused on the impact of humanity's activities on the bio-physical components of the Earth system, this final section first focuses on the condition of humans, themselves, and the SDGs focusing on the improvement of that condition. You will be introduced to the concept of Doughnut Economics, which builds on the Planetary Boundaries framework. Finally, this module examines current status for implementation and provides examples of how different actors are engaging in global efforts to achieve the goals.
What's included
3 videos4 readings1 assignment2 discussion prompts
Instructor
Instructor ratings
4.8 (1,438 ratings)Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Governance and Society
The University of Edinburgh
University of Cape Town
Imperial College London
University of Copenhagen
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