SLGP7005

Environmental policy and politics

[6 CREDITS]

Introduction

The course introduces students to major theoretical frameworks devised to understand and explain public policy-making which will form important bases for the analysis of environmental policies. Students will develop the ability to critically reflect on why certain policies are made instead of others in relation to the wider context determined by socio-cultural and political factors. The course also provides the opportunity to review debates over the strengths and limitations of conventional and new policy instruments, which encompass regulatory regimes, market-based approaches, and voluntary initiatives. International conventions and protocols will also be examined in terms of their influence on government and business policy. Drawing upon a wide range of case studies from different countries, the roles of stakeholders from all sectors in influencing policy development will be discussed at local, regional, national and international levels.

Assessment: 100% coursework