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Dr. Jonathan Tomkin
This course introduces the academic approach of Sustainability and explores how today’s human societies can endure in the face of global change, ecosystem degradation and resource limitations. The course focuses on key knowledge areas of sustainability theory and practice, including population, ecosystems, global change, energy, agriculture, water, environmental economics and policy, ethics, and cultural history.
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This course introduces the academic approach of Sustainability and explores how today’s human societies can endure in the face of global change, ecosystem degradation and resource limitations. The course focuses on key knowledge areas of sustainability theory and practice, including population, ecosystems, global change, energy, agriculture, water, environmental economics and policy, ethics, and cultural history.
Read more
This course introduces the academic approach of Sustainability and explores how today’s human societies can endure in the face of global change, ecosystem degradation and resource limitations. The course focuses on key knowledge areas of sustainability theory and practice, including population, ecosystems, global change, energy, agriculture, water, environmental economics and policy, ethics, and cultural history.
This subject is of vital importance, seeking as it does to uncover the principles of the long-term welfare of all the peoples of the planet. As sustainability is a cross-disciplinary field of study, this foundation requires intellectual breadth: as I describe it in the class text, understanding our motivations requires the humanities, measuring the challenges of sustainability requires knowledge of the sciences (both natural and social), and building solutions requires technical insight into systems (such as provided by engineering, planning, and management).
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What's inside
Syllabus
Orientation and Introduction
In this module, you will become familiar with the course, your classmates, and the learning environment. The orientation also helps you obtain the technical skills required for the course. In the introduction, we will examine some of the central ideas that underpin the Earth as a system, and their consequences for environmental sustainability.
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Syllabus
Orientation and Introduction
In this module, you will become familiar with the course, your classmates, and the learning environment. The orientation also helps you obtain the technical skills required for the course. In the introduction, we will examine some of the central ideas that underpin the Earth as a system, and their consequences for environmental sustainability.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Taught by Dr. Jonathan Tomkin, who is an expert researcher in sustainability and the environment, and author in the field
Introduces learners to key knowledge areas of sustainability theory and practice, including population, ecosystems, global change, energy, agriculture, water, environmental economics, policy, ethics, and cultural history
Covers a wide range of topics relevant to sustainability, including population, ecosystems, climate change, energy, water and agriculture, environmental policy, and measuring sustainability
Takes a cross-disciplinary approach to sustainability, drawing on the humanities, sciences, and engineering
Suitable for beginners who are new to sustainability or those who want to refresh their knowledge
Provides a comprehensive overview of sustainability, making it a good starting point for further learning
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Reviews summary
Comprehensive introduction to sustainability
According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in the broad field of sustainability, covering a wide range of key topics from ecosystems and climate change to policy and economics. Many appreciate the interdisciplinary approach, finding it helps understand the complexity of the subject. The lectures are often described as clear and well-structured, making the material accessible for beginners. While some wish for more depth on specific areas, the course is widely seen as an excellent starting point for anyone interested in understanding global environmental challenges and potential solutions.
Covers crucial global issues.
"The topics covered are incredibly important and relevant to today's world."
"Gave me a much better understanding of the challenges facing our planet."
"Highly recommend this course for its critical subject matter."
"Felt like I was learning about issues that truly matter."
Highlights connections across different fields.
"Loved how it connected science, social issues, and economics."
"The cross-disciplinary approach makes the subject feel more relevant and real-world."
"Helped me understand how different areas of sustainability interact."
"Showed how complex sustainability is by looking at it from multiple angles."
Lectures are easy to follow and understand.
"The lectures were well-organized and easy to digest."
"Professor is engaging and explains complex ideas simply."
"Video lessons break down the information effectively."
"I found the structure of the modules very helpful for learning."
Excellent starting point for beginners.
"An excellent introduction for someone new to the concept of sustainability."
"Perfect for gaining a foundational understanding before diving deeper."
"Provides a solid entry point into this complex subject area."
"As a beginner, I found the concepts explained clearly and logically."
Explores a wide range of sustainability topics.
"The course covered a wide range of topics, providing a great overview of the many facets of sustainability."
"I appreciated the breadth of the course, touching on everything from population dynamics to environmental policy."
"This course gives a comprehensive look at sustainability, connecting science, policy, and economics."
"Covers all the major areas you'd expect in an intro course."
Coverage can feel introductory, not deeply specialized.
"While broad, I sometimes wished for more in-depth discussion on certain topics."
"It's a good overview, but don't expect deep dives into specific scientific or policy details."
"Some modules felt a bit too surface-level."
"Could use more advanced concepts or case studies for those with some prior knowledge."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Introduction to Sustainability with these
activities:
Read 'Sustainability: Perspectives and Practices' by Jonathan M. Tomkin
Show steps
Familiarizes you with key concepts and approaches in sustainability.
Show steps
-
Read the introduction and Chapter 1
-
Summarize key terms and concepts
Start a personal sustainability project (e.g., reducing carbon footprint, conserving water)
Show steps
Encourages you to take action and implement sustainability practices in your own life.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
-
Identify an area where you want to improve your sustainability
-
Research and develop a plan for your project
-
Implement your plan and track your progress
Explore online resources on renewable energy technologies
Show steps
Expands your knowledge of renewable energy technologies and their applications.
Show steps
-
Search for online resources on renewable energy technologies
-
Explore different technologies and their advantages and disadvantages
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Solve practice problems on population growth and resource depletion
Show steps
Improves your understanding of the impact of population growth and resource depletion on sustainability.
Browse courses on
Population Growth
Show steps
-
Review lecture notes on population growth and resource depletion
-
Attempt practice problems
-
Check solutions and identify areas for improvement
Participate in online discussion forums on sustainability topics
Show steps
Fosters collaboration and exchange of ideas on sustainability issues with peers.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
-
Join online discussion forums on sustainability topics
-
Participate in discussions and share your perspectives
Design a poster on climate change mitigation strategies
Show steps
Encourages you to apply your knowledge of climate change mitigation strategies and present them in a visually engaging way.
Browse courses on
Climate Change Mitigation
Show steps
-
Research climate change mitigation strategies
-
Design a poster with clear and concise information
-
Present your poster to the class
Participate in a sustainability hackathon or competition
Show steps
Challenges you to solve real-world sustainability problems in a collaborative and competitive environment.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
-
Find a sustainability hackathon or competition that aligns with your interests
-
Form a team and develop a solution to the problem
-
Present your solution to a panel of judges
Develop a plan for a sustainable community project
Show steps
Provides you with hands-on experience in applying sustainability principles to real-world projects.
Show steps
-
Identify a need or opportunity in your community
-
Research and develop a plan for a sustainable solution
-
Present your plan to stakeholders
Read 'Sustainability: Perspectives and Practices' by Jonathan M. Tomkin
Show steps
Familiarizes you with key concepts and approaches in sustainability.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the introduction and Chapter 1
- Summarize key terms and concepts
Start a personal sustainability project (e.g., reducing carbon footprint, conserving water)
Show steps
Encourages you to take action and implement sustainability practices in your own life.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify an area where you want to improve your sustainability
- Research and develop a plan for your project
- Implement your plan and track your progress
Explore online resources on renewable energy technologies
Show steps
Expands your knowledge of renewable energy technologies and their applications.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for online resources on renewable energy technologies
- Explore different technologies and their advantages and disadvantages
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Solve practice problems on population growth and resource depletion
Show steps
Improves your understanding of the impact of population growth and resource depletion on sustainability.
Browse courses on
Population Growth
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review lecture notes on population growth and resource depletion
- Attempt practice problems
- Check solutions and identify areas for improvement
Participate in online discussion forums on sustainability topics
Show steps
Fosters collaboration and exchange of ideas on sustainability issues with peers.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join online discussion forums on sustainability topics
- Participate in discussions and share your perspectives
Design a poster on climate change mitigation strategies
Show steps
Encourages you to apply your knowledge of climate change mitigation strategies and present them in a visually engaging way.
Browse courses on
Climate Change Mitigation
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research climate change mitigation strategies
- Design a poster with clear and concise information
- Present your poster to the class
Participate in a sustainability hackathon or competition
Show steps
Challenges you to solve real-world sustainability problems in a collaborative and competitive environment.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a sustainability hackathon or competition that aligns with your interests
- Form a team and develop a solution to the problem
- Present your solution to a panel of judges
Develop a plan for a sustainable community project
Show steps
Provides you with hands-on experience in applying sustainability principles to real-world projects.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a need or opportunity in your community
- Research and develop a plan for a sustainable solution
- Present your plan to stakeholders
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Sustainability will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Sustainability Analyst
Sustainability Analyst
The Sustainability Analyst plays a vital role on the path to sustainability. Sustainability Analysts are responsible for monitoring and assessing sustainability. They evaluate the social, economic, and environmental footprints of products, services, and processes. They implement and coordinate sustainability programs, policies, and projects, helping organizations reduce their environmental impact and improve their social and economic performance. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultants provide consulting services to help organizations and governments develop and implement sustainable solutions. They conduct environmental assessments, audits, and feasibility studies. They also develop and implement environmental management systems and sustainability programs, helping organizations improve their environmental performance and reduce their environmental impact. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. They work to protect the environment and public health. They conduct research, design, and implement solutions to reduce pollution, conserve resources, and restore ecosystems. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Environmental Policy Analyst
Environmental Policy Analyst
Environmental Policy Analysts research, develop, and evaluate environmental policies. They work to protect the environment and public health. They conduct research, develop policies, and evaluate the effectiveness of environmental regulations. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and its components. They conduct research to understand how the environment works and how human activities impact the environment. They also develop and implement solutions to environmental problems. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Natural Resources Manager
Natural Resources Manager
Natural Resources Managers manage natural resources, such as forests, water, and wildlife. They work to protect and sustain natural resources for current and future generations. They develop and implement management plans, conduct research, and educate the public about natural resources. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Managers oversee sustainability programs and initiatives for organizations. They work to improve the organization's environmental, social, and economic performance. They develop and implement sustainability strategies, policies, and programs. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners design and plan the development of cities and towns. They work to create sustainable and livable communities. They develop plans for land use, transportation, and public spaces. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientists study the climate system and its components. They conduct research to understand how the climate system works and how human activities impact the climate. They also develop and implement solutions to climate change. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Conservation Biologist
Conservation Biologist
Conservation Biologists study and protect endangered and threatened species. They work to conserve and restore biodiversity. They conduct research, develop conservation plans, and educate the public about conservation. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Water Resources Engineer
Water Resources Engineer
Water Resources Engineers design and implement solutions to water problems. They work to protect and sustain water resources for current and future generations. They develop and implement water management plans, conduct research, and educate the public about water resources. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Energy Auditor
Energy Auditor
Energy Auditors assess the energy consumption of buildings and businesses. They identify ways to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy costs. They conduct energy audits, develop energy efficiency plans, and educate the public about energy efficiency. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Green Building Designer
Green Building Designer
Green Building Designers design and build sustainable buildings. They work to create buildings that are energy efficient, water efficient, and environmentally friendly. They develop design plans, conduct energy modeling, and educate the public about sustainable building practices. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Renewable Energy Engineer
Renewable Energy Engineer
Renewable Energy Engineers design and implement renewable energy systems. They work to develop and deploy renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind, and geothermal energy. They develop design plans, conduct feasibility studies, and educate the public about renewable energy. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
Sustainable Agriculture Specialist
Sustainable Agriculture Specialist
Sustainable Agriculture Specialists help farmers and ranchers adopt sustainable farming practices. They work to improve the environmental and economic performance of agricultural systems. They develop and implement sustainable agriculture plans, conduct research, and educate the public about sustainable agriculture. Introduction to Sustainability may be useful in building a foundation in the principles and practices of sustainability, which are essential to success in this role.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/1op1b5/introduction
Featured in The Course Notes
This course is mentioned in our blog,
The Course Notes. Read
one article that features
Introduction to Sustainability:
To read more articles from OpenCourser, visit:
OpenCourser.com/notes
Reading list
We've selected 15 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Introduction to Sustainability.
Save
Comprehensive plan to reverse global warming. It is based on the research of 70 leading scientists and experts.
Powerful account of the current extinction crisis. Kolbert argues that we are facing the sixth mass extinction in the history of the Earth.
Save
Beautiful and inspiring exploration of the relationship between humans and the natural world.
Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that tells the story of the interconnected lives of trees and humans.
This report comprehensive overview of the progress that has been made towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
This report identifies and analyzes the most pressing global risks.
Provides a clear and concise introduction to the principles and practices of sustainability. It covers a wide range of topics, including the environment, economy, and society, and it includes a range of case studies and examples.
Powerful indictment of the use of pesticides. It was first published in 1962, and it helped to launch the environmental movement.
Fascinating study of the collapse of past civilizations. Diamond argues that societies collapse when they fail to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
Save
Hopeful and inspiring look at the future of the planet. It argues that we can create a sustainable future for all.
Science fiction novel that imagines a future in which the world has been ravaged by climate change.
Provides a comprehensive overview of environmental science, including the key concepts, principles, and theories that underpin the field. It well-written and engaging book that is suitable for students and professionals alike. This book useful reference for students, researchers, and practitioners in the field of environmental science and management.
Save
Is another classic work on the subject of sustainability. It was first published in 1968, and it has since been translated into over 20 languages. The book argues that the world is facing a population crisis.
Save
Classic work on the subject of sustainability. It was first published in 1972, and it has since been translated into over 30 languages. The book argues that there are limits to growth on a finite planet.
Sobering look at the potential consequences of climate change.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/1op1b5/introduction
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University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Instructor
Dr. Jonathan Tomkin
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Featured in The Course Notes
Read
one article that features
this course,
Introduction to Sustainability
from our blog, The Course Notes:
To read more articles from OpenCourser, visit:
OpenCourser.com/notes
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