可持续发展导论

This course examines challenges, solutions and implications of sustainable development in a globalized world. It considers the interdependence of social development, the economy and environmental protection. The course begins with a review of interrelated concepts, background and interpretations of sustainable development; and continues with several critical sustainability issues highlighted in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as energy, water, food, equality, biodiversity and sustainable cities. Key actors, institutions and processes of sustainable development are also included in the course. In addition to the lectures, each student writes a short essay on required topics; these essays serve as the starting point for class discussions. At the end of the semester, students submit a medium-length paper communicating their research findings and analysis of a related topic of their choosing.