SLGP7110

Globalisation and the environment

[6 CREDITS]

Introduction

This course will introduce students to the major theories and conceptual understandings regarding globalisation and international issues relating to the environment and natural resource management.  Students will be introduced to international efforts and organisations involved in global environmental governance, roles and relationships within the international arena and the implications of this for natural resources.  This will allow critical engagement and debate of the broader trends and issues that impact the environment and the associated implications for sustainability. 

 

Bringing together the economic, environmental and social sides of sustainability, students will analyse and take on the roles of different stakeholders and transnational actors to develop understandings of the challenges and opportunities presented by global trends for decision making in this context.  This includes exploring the role of transnational non-state actors such as international corporations and multinationals and their growing international influence.  Alongside this, issues of equity and justice will also be critically examined and debated to understand the social issues at stake.  Finally, globalisation alternatives will be explored as well as the role of innovations and emerging global trends to better understand what the future implications of these phenomena mean for the environment and sustainability.  

 

A range of case studies focused at the international, regional and national level will be drawn on to illustrate lessons, allow for comparisons and develop better understanding of the interconnections involved for the environment in a globalised world.  Virtual simulations, interactive exercises and generative AI may also be incorporated to enable students to experience how real-world international policy situations unfold and allow for iterative understandings to be developed.  

Assessment: 100% coursework