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Associate Professor Edward Wray-Bliss
It is no longer acceptable for organisations to focus entirely on financial success if they are to be competitive on the global stage. As corporate scandals continue to make headlines, you will expand your strategic thinking beyond your organisation’s competitive financial environment to consider its broader impact on society. You will grapple with the conflicting outcomes of maximising financial return and societal impact as you develop the skills to create a balance that is sustainable. Through structured learning activities (video lectures, quizzes, discussion prompts and written assessments) you will gain an appreciation of how important sustainability will be for every organisation in the future – and how to achieve it.
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What's inside
Syllabus
The nature of sustainability
What is sustainability, why, and when did the concept develop, and why is it of crucial strategic importance for business? This week you will be introduced to the drivers that have given rise to the concept of sustainability; the diverse range of ethical, social, and environmental issues it contains; and the main global definitions, goals and frameworks of sustainable development. To provide context for the above, you will start by reviewing contemporary examples, from some of the world's most powerful corporations, of how neglect of sustainability has resulted in massive financial, reputational, and social costs.
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Syllabus
The nature of sustainability
What is sustainability, why, and when did the concept develop, and why is it of crucial strategic importance for business? This week you will be introduced to the drivers that have given rise to the concept of sustainability; the diverse range of ethical, social, and environmental issues it contains; and the main global definitions, goals and frameworks of sustainable development. To provide context for the above, you will start by reviewing contemporary examples, from some of the world's most powerful corporations, of how neglect of sustainability has resulted in massive financial, reputational, and social costs.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Provides tangible strategies to achieve the balance between economic prosperity and social responsibility
Suitable for learners seeking strategies to mitigate the sustainability-related risks and challenges faced by businesses
In-depth exploration of the concept of sustainability, its history, and its relevance to business
Course materials include video lectures, quizzes, discussion prompts, and written assessments
Introduces a range of sustainable business strategies, including business ethics, corporate social responsibility, and green capitalism
Examines the role of business in addressing environmental pollution, inequality, and the quality of working lives
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Reviews summary
Sustainability and csr: comprehensive overview
According to learners, this course provides a largely positive introduction to global sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Many find it a comprehensive overview that offers a solid foundation in the subject, with well-structured lectures and relevant content that includes real-world examples. Reviewers highlight that the course is accessible for beginners and effectively articulates the importance of sustainability for modern business. Some modules, particularly on ethical challenges and social entrepreneurship, are noted as particularly insightful. However, a few students feel it is too theoretical in parts and could benefit from more practical tools or a deeper dive into certain topics, suggesting it may scratch the surface for those with prior experience.
Accessible but may be basic for experienced learners.
"It's accessible for beginners but also offers new perspectives for those with some prior knowledge."
"Might be okay for complete beginners, but not for those with experience."
"...providing solid knowledge for a beginner."
Topics are important and challenging.
"This course is crucial for anyone working in business today. It articulates the importance of sustainability clearly..."
"The modules on ethical challenges in organizations were particularly insightful."
"Provided a great framework for thinking about sustainability strategically. The module on social entrepreneurship was very interesting."
"It challenged my perspective on the role of business in society."
Provides a broad, well-structured introduction.
"Excellent course providing a comprehensive overview of sustainability and CSR."
"A very good introduction to the topic. The content is relevant and the structure is logical."
"Fantastic course! It is very well-structured, logical flow, and excellent content. It's comprehensive..."
"I learned so much and highly recommend it."
Content can be too theoretical, less focus on tools.
"Some weeks felt a bit theoretical, and I would have liked more practical tools or frameworks for implementation..."
"The content was too theoretical and lacked practical application."
"I felt it scratched the surface on some issues and could go deeper."
"Expected more depth and actionable insights."
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 Global sustainability and corporate social responsibility: Be sustainable with these
activities:
Explore Google Earth
Show steps
Gain familiarity with an essential tool for geographical exploration and analysis.
Show steps
-
Follow tutorials to navigate and manipulate Google Earth.
-
Explore different geographical locations.
Discuss current events related to globalization
Show steps
Engage in critical discussions to broaden your perspective and deepen your understanding.
Browse courses on
Globalization
Show steps
-
Read articles or watch news segments.
-
Meet with peers to discuss and exchange views.
The Geography of Thought by Richard Nisbett
Show steps
Expand your understanding of cultural differences and their impact on cognition.
View
Thinking
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read chapters on cultural variations in perception, memory, and reasoning.
-
Summarize key arguments and evidence.
-
Reflect on implications for global communication and collaboration.
One other activity
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all four activities
Analyze a global issue using GIS data
Show steps
Apply your knowledge to a real-world problem and enhance your analytical and technical skills.
Browse courses on
GIS
Show steps
-
Identify a global issue of interest.
-
Gather and analyze relevant GIS data.
-
Create maps, charts, and other visualizations.
-
Write a report summarizing your findings.
Explore Google Earth
Show steps
Gain familiarity with an essential tool for geographical exploration and analysis.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Follow tutorials to navigate and manipulate Google Earth.
- Explore different geographical locations.
Discuss current events related to globalization
Show steps
Engage in critical discussions to broaden your perspective and deepen your understanding.
Browse courses on
Globalization
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read articles or watch news segments.
- Meet with peers to discuss and exchange views.
The Geography of Thought by Richard Nisbett
Show steps
Expand your understanding of cultural differences and their impact on cognition.
View
Thinking
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read chapters on cultural variations in perception, memory, and reasoning.
- Summarize key arguments and evidence.
- Reflect on implications for global communication and collaboration.
One other activity
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all four activities
Analyze a global issue using GIS data
Show steps
Apply your knowledge to a real-world problem and enhance your analytical and technical skills.
Browse courses on
GIS
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a global issue of interest.
- Gather and analyze relevant GIS data.
- Create maps, charts, and other visualizations.
- Write a report summarizing your findings.
Career center
Learners who complete Global sustainability and corporate social responsibility: Be sustainable will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Chief Sustainability Officer
Chief Sustainability Officer
This course is highly relevant for aspiring Chief Sustainability Officers, who are responsible for leading and managing sustainability initiatives within their organizations. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of sustainability, the latest trends and best practices in sustainability management, and the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating sustainability into business strategy. By completing this course, individuals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively lead sustainability initiatives and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable and responsible business environment.
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
This course aligns perfectly with the role of a Corporate Social Responsibility Manager, who is tasked with developing and implementing corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies within their organizations. The course covers the key principles of CSR, the benefits and challenges associated with CSR initiatives, and the various tools and techniques that are used to measure and report on CSR performance. By completing this course, individuals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage CSR initiatives and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable and socially responsible business environment.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Manager
This course would be a valuable asset for aspiring Sustainability Managers, who are responsible for developing and implementing sustainability strategies within their organizations. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of sustainability, industry best practices, and the challenges associated with integrating sustainability into business operations. By completing this course, individuals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage sustainability initiatives and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable future.
Sustainability Analyst
Sustainability Analyst
This course would be a valuable asset for those aspiring to become Sustainability Analysts, who are responsible for analyzing and reporting on the sustainability performance of organizations. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of sustainability, the various frameworks and tools used to measure sustainability performance, and the challenges associated with integrating sustainability into business operations. By completing this course, individuals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively analyze and report on sustainability performance and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable future.
Business Ethics Consultant
Business Ethics Consultant
For those interested in a career as a Business Ethics Consultant, this course provides a strong foundation as it covers the principles of business ethics, the challenges and opportunities associated with ethical decision-making in business, and the latest trends and best practices in business ethics. By completing this course, individuals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively advise organizations on ethical issues and contribute to the creation of a more ethical and sustainable business environment.
Sustainability Reporter
Sustainability Reporter
This course would be a valuable asset for aspiring Sustainability Reporters, who are responsible for communicating the sustainability performance of organizations to stakeholders. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of sustainability, sustainability reporting frameworks, and the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainability reporting. By completing this course, individuals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively develop and communicate sustainability reports and contribute to the creation of a more transparent and accountable business environment.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
This course would be beneficial for those aspiring to become Environmental Engineers, who are responsible for designing and implementing solutions to environmental problems. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of sustainability, environmental regulations, and the latest technologies used to address environmental issues. By completing this course, individuals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively design and implement sustainable solutions and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable future.
Social Entrepreneur
Social Entrepreneur
For those seeking to make a positive impact on society through entrepreneurship, this course provides a strong foundation as it covers the principles of sustainability, social innovation, and the challenges and opportunities associated with starting a social enterprise. By completing this course, individuals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and implement sustainable business models and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable and just society.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants are in great demand as organizations strive to implement sustainable practices, reduce their environmental impact, and meet the expectations of increasingly sustainability-conscious consumers. This course can be useful for those aspiring to become Sustainability Consultants as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the key principles of sustainability as well as their implications for organizations. The course also covers the various tools and techniques that are used to develop and implement sustainability strategies, making it a valuable resource for those seeking to make a career in this growing field.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyer
As businesses face increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices and comply with environmental regulations, the demand for Environmental Lawyers is expected to grow. This course provides a strong foundation for those interested in becoming Environmental Lawyers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern sustainability. The course also discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing sustainable practices, which would be valuable knowledge for those seeking to specialize in environmental law.
Sustainability Educator
Sustainability Educator
For those passionate about educating and inspiring others about sustainability, this course provides a strong foundation as it covers the principles of sustainability, effective teaching methodologies, and the challenges and opportunities associated with teaching sustainability. By completing this course, individuals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and deliver engaging and impactful sustainability education programs and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable future.
Corporate Lawyer
Corporate Lawyer
This course would be beneficial for aspiring Corporate Lawyers, who are responsible for providing legal advice to corporations on a wide range of issues. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of sustainability, corporate law, and the challenges and opportunities associated with legal compliance in a sustainable business environment. By completing this course, individuals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively advise corporations on legal issues related to sustainability and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable and responsible business environment.
Public Policy Analyst
Public Policy Analyst
This course would be beneficial for aspiring Public Policy Analysts, who are responsible for researching, analyzing, and developing public policies. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of sustainability, the policy-making process, and the challenges and opportunities associated with developing sustainable public policies. By completing this course, individuals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively analyze and develop public policies that promote sustainability and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable future.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Manager
This course would be useful for those aspiring to become Nonprofit Managers, who are responsible for leading and managing nonprofit organizations. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of sustainability, nonprofit management, and the challenges and opportunities associated with managing nonprofit organizations. By completing this course, individuals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage nonprofit organizations and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable and just society.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
With the growing awareness about sustainability, businesses will require more Environmental Scientists to help them attain the necessary regulatory requirements to maintain compliance and global standards. This course may be useful for those interested in becoming Environmental Scientists as it will provide them with a strong foundation in the principles of sustainability, help them keep abreast of the latest environmental regulations, and provide an understanding of Corporate Social Responsibility. This would enable them to contribute to the development of sustainable strategies within organizations, ensuring that they meet their environmental obligations and contribute to creating a more sustainable future.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/7f9g6v/global
Reading list
We've selected nine 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
Global sustainability and corporate social responsibility: Be sustainable.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research on corporate social responsibility. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the topic and its implications for business.
Provides a practical guide to sustainability management and strategy. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the topic and how it can be applied in business.
Provides a comprehensive overview of sustainability accounting and reporting. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the topic and its implications for business.
Provides an economic perspective on sustainability. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the topic and its implications for business and society.
Provides a political perspective on sustainability. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the topic and its implications for business and society.
Provides an anthropological perspective on sustainability. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the topic and its implications for business and society.
Provides a historical perspective on sustainability. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the topic and its implications for business and society.
Provides a future-oriented perspective on sustainability. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the topic and its implications for business and society.
Provides a systems approach to sustainability. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the topic and its implications for business and society.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/7f9g6v/global
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Macquarie University
Instructor
Associate Professor Edward Wray-Bliss
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Strategising: Management for Global Competitive Advantage. It's comprised of four courses:
- Supply chain management: Be global
- Global sustainability and corporate social responsibility: Be sustainable (viewing)
- Strategic management: Be competitive
- Innovation and emerging technology: Be disruptive
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