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Michael J. Readey, Ph.D.
In this course, learners begin with a macro-level view of the current state of the world and touch upon topics such as climate change, plastic pollution, social inequity, and the economic systems that got us to where we are today. Learners investigate how such an economy cannot sustain itself and the need for a rapid transition to something different. We define sustainability, the meaning of sustainable development, and the United Nations' Sustainability Goals.
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In this course, learners begin with a macro-level view of the current state of the world and touch upon topics such as climate change, plastic pollution, social inequity, and the economic systems that got us to where we are today. Learners investigate how such an economy cannot sustain itself and the need for a rapid transition to something different. We define sustainability, the meaning of sustainable development, and the United Nations' Sustainability Goals.
Read more
In this course, learners begin with a macro-level view of the current state of the world and touch upon topics such as climate change, plastic pollution, social inequity, and the economic systems that got us to where we are today. Learners investigate how such an economy cannot sustain itself and the need for a rapid transition to something different. We define sustainability, the meaning of sustainable development, and the United Nations' Sustainability Goals.
Recognizing that change is imperative, we begin looking at energy, and more specifically, power generation as this is widely understood as the leading cause of climate change today. We show why this is the case and explore pathways to reduce carbon emissions, such as through the transition from coal and natural gas to renewables such as wind and solar. The concept of the carbon footprint and how it is determined is introduced. Learners have the opportunity to calculate their own personal carbon footprint under a variety of power source options (coal, natural gas, or renewable), and discover what would happen to their personal carbon footprint if they moved toward renewable energies.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/a4zzv7/the
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What's inside
Syllabus
Setting the Stage: The Sustainability Imperative
In this module, we set the stage for the entire course. You will learn about the current state of the world, ranging from climate change and its consequences to ocean acidification. We then see how climate change and our own direct impacts such as deforestation are affecting the plants and animals that share this planet with us. We then turn our attention to the problem of plastic pollution, and how this is rapidly becoming a crisis of monumental proportions. Some have even suggested that we humans are changing the planet in so many ways that we’re entering a new geological epoch referred to as the Anthropocene.
Of course, sustainability is more than just an environmental issue. To this point, we will discuss the social inequity across the globe, and how those at the bottom of the economic pyramid often suffer the most. While this may seem a rather depressing start to the course, we need to understand the magnitude of the challenges facing us and our current understanding behind them if we are ever going to get to a more sustainable future. With that in mind, we conclude with some uplifting initiatives pioneered by scientists, environmentalists, entrepreneurs and often just passionate individuals that want to make a difference.
Read more
Syllabus
Setting the Stage: The Sustainability Imperative
In this module, we set the stage for the entire course. You will learn about the current state of the world, ranging from climate change and its consequences to ocean acidification. We then see how climate change and our own direct impacts such as deforestation are affecting the plants and animals that share this planet with us. We then turn our attention to the problem of plastic pollution, and how this is rapidly becoming a crisis of monumental proportions. Some have even suggested that we humans are changing the planet in so many ways that we’re entering a new geological epoch referred to as the Anthropocene.
Of course, sustainability is more than just an environmental issue. To this point, we will discuss the social inequity across the globe, and how those at the bottom of the economic pyramid often suffer the most. While this may seem a rather depressing start to the course, we need to understand the magnitude of the challenges facing us and our current understanding behind them if we are ever going to get to a more sustainable future. With that in mind, we conclude with some uplifting initiatives pioneered by scientists, environmentalists, entrepreneurs and often just passionate individuals that want to make a difference.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Suitable for hobbyists interested in the sustainability imperative
Explores a holistic approach to sustainability, ranging from global issues to individual footprints
Focuses on the transition to renewable energy sources, including their economic and environmental impact
Provides practical insights for individuals to reduce their carbon footprint
Helpful for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of the current state of the planet and its challenges
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Reviews summary
Comprehensive look at sustainability
According to learners, 'The Sustainability Imperative' provides a largely positive and comprehensive introduction to critical global challenges. Students appreciate its ability to clearly explain complex interconnections between climate change, economics, and social equity. A notable feature is the personal carbon footprint calculation, which makes abstract concepts tangible and relevant. While praised for its relevance and the instructor's engaging lectures and passion, some more experienced learners suggest it offers a high-level overview and could benefit from deeper dives into specific areas, making it an excellent foundation but potentially requiring further study for advanced practical application.
Excellent as an introduction, less for advanced topics.
"The course provides a decent overview, but I found some parts a bit too high-level, especially regarding the economic models."
"While the topics are important, I felt the course lacked sufficient depth in many areas... don't expect to become an expert."
"I enrolled hoping for more practical insights for my work... While it provided good background, it was quite theoretical."
Instructor's passion and clarity enhance learning.
"The instructor's passion truly shines through."
"The instructor clearly knows their stuff. I found the module on fossil fuels and the energy transition particularly informative."
"The instructor brought a lot of energy to the lectures. I feel much more informed and empowered after taking this."
Personal calculation makes sustainability tangible.
"I especially loved calculating my personal carbon footprint – it made the abstract concepts very real."
"The carbon footprint exercise was neat, and it definitely made the course more tangible for me."
"The personal carbon footprint calculation was a highlight for me, making it very tangible. Recommended."
A broad yet clear understanding of sustainability.
"This course was a fantastic eye-opener! I learned so much about the complex interconnections of climate change, economics, and social equity."
"A very comprehensive introduction to sustainability. It covers a lot of ground, from scientific basics to economic models and policy implications."
"I loved the blend of environmental science with social and economic factors. The pace was just right for me, and the explanations were very clear."
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 The Sustainability Imperative with these
activities:
Review basic algebra and linear equations
Show steps
Refresh your knowledge of basic algebra and linear equations to ensure you have a solid understanding of the fundamentals necessary for thermodynamics.
Browse courses on
Algebra
Show steps
-
Review notes and textbooks from previous algebra courses.
-
Practice solving linear equations and graphing them.
Follow online tutorials on the basics of thermodynamics
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of thermodynamics by exploring online tutorials that provide interactive explanations and demonstrations of key concepts.
Browse courses on
Thermodynamics
Show steps
-
Search for reputable online platforms offering thermodynamics tutorials.
-
Choose tutorials that align with your learning style and pace.
-
Take notes and actively engage with the material presented in the tutorials.
Solve practice problems on thermodynamics concepts
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of thermodynamics concepts by engaging in practice problems that test your ability to apply the principles and equations.
Browse courses on
Problem-Solving
Show steps
-
Collect practice problems from textbooks, online resources, or previous exams.
-
Set aside dedicated time to solve the problems.
-
Review your solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Read and summarize a foundational thermodynamics textbook
Show steps
Gain a comprehensive understanding of thermodynamics by reading and summarizing a foundational textbook that provides a detailed exploration of the subject.
View
Fundamentals of Engineering Thermodynamics, 7th...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain a reputable thermodynamics textbook, such as 'Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach' by Moran and Shapiro.
-
Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key concepts.
-
Summarize each chapter in your own words, capturing the main ideas and equations.
Create a mind map or concept diagram of thermodynamics
Show steps
Enhance your understanding and retention of thermodynamics concepts by creating a visual representation of the relationships and connections between different topics.
Browse courses on
Mind Mapping
Show steps
-
Identify the main concepts and subtopics in thermodynamics.
-
Arrange the concepts in a logical and hierarchical manner.
-
Use different colors, shapes, and lines to represent the relationships between the concepts.
Conduct a small-scale thermodynamics experiment
Show steps
Apply your theoretical knowledge of thermodynamics to a practical setting by designing and conducting a small-scale experiment that demonstrates a thermodynamic principle.
Browse courses on
Experimental Design
Show steps
-
Identify a specific thermodynamic principle you want to investigate.
-
Design an experiment that tests the principle using simple materials and equipment.
-
Conduct the experiment, carefully recording data and observations.
-
Analyze the results and draw conclusions about the thermodynamic principle being tested.
Develop a thermodynamics problem-solving toolkit
Show steps
Create a valuable resource for yourself and others by compiling a collection of solved problems, formulas, and other helpful materials related to thermodynamics.
Browse courses on
Study Guide
Show steps
-
Gather solved problems from textbooks, class notes, and online sources.
-
Organize the problems by topic and difficulty level.
-
Include formulas, diagrams, and explanations to aid in understanding.
-
Share your toolkit with classmates or post it online for others to benefit from.
Volunteer as a peer tutor or mentor in thermodynamics
Show steps
Consolidate your understanding of thermodynamics by sharing your knowledge and assisting other students in their learning journey.
Browse courses on
Mentoring
Show steps
-
Offer your services as a peer tutor or mentor to students struggling with thermodynamics.
-
Review thermodynamics concepts and prepare materials to support your tutees.
-
Meet with your tutees regularly, providing guidance and support.
Review basic algebra and linear equations
Show steps
Refresh your knowledge of basic algebra and linear equations to ensure you have a solid understanding of the fundamentals necessary for thermodynamics.
Browse courses on
Algebra
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review notes and textbooks from previous algebra courses.
- Practice solving linear equations and graphing them.
Follow online tutorials on the basics of thermodynamics
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of thermodynamics by exploring online tutorials that provide interactive explanations and demonstrations of key concepts.
Browse courses on
Thermodynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for reputable online platforms offering thermodynamics tutorials.
- Choose tutorials that align with your learning style and pace.
- Take notes and actively engage with the material presented in the tutorials.
Solve practice problems on thermodynamics concepts
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of thermodynamics concepts by engaging in practice problems that test your ability to apply the principles and equations.
Browse courses on
Problem-Solving
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Collect practice problems from textbooks, online resources, or previous exams.
- Set aside dedicated time to solve the problems.
- Review your solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Read and summarize a foundational thermodynamics textbook
Show steps
Gain a comprehensive understanding of thermodynamics by reading and summarizing a foundational textbook that provides a detailed exploration of the subject.
View
Fundamentals of Engineering Thermodynamics, 7th...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a reputable thermodynamics textbook, such as 'Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach' by Moran and Shapiro.
- Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key concepts.
- Summarize each chapter in your own words, capturing the main ideas and equations.
Create a mind map or concept diagram of thermodynamics
Show steps
Enhance your understanding and retention of thermodynamics concepts by creating a visual representation of the relationships and connections between different topics.
Browse courses on
Mind Mapping
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the main concepts and subtopics in thermodynamics.
- Arrange the concepts in a logical and hierarchical manner.
- Use different colors, shapes, and lines to represent the relationships between the concepts.
Conduct a small-scale thermodynamics experiment
Show steps
Apply your theoretical knowledge of thermodynamics to a practical setting by designing and conducting a small-scale experiment that demonstrates a thermodynamic principle.
Browse courses on
Experimental Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a specific thermodynamic principle you want to investigate.
- Design an experiment that tests the principle using simple materials and equipment.
- Conduct the experiment, carefully recording data and observations.
- Analyze the results and draw conclusions about the thermodynamic principle being tested.
Develop a thermodynamics problem-solving toolkit
Show steps
Create a valuable resource for yourself and others by compiling a collection of solved problems, formulas, and other helpful materials related to thermodynamics.
Browse courses on
Study Guide
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather solved problems from textbooks, class notes, and online sources.
- Organize the problems by topic and difficulty level.
- Include formulas, diagrams, and explanations to aid in understanding.
- Share your toolkit with classmates or post it online for others to benefit from.
Volunteer as a peer tutor or mentor in thermodynamics
Show steps
Consolidate your understanding of thermodynamics by sharing your knowledge and assisting other students in their learning journey.
Browse courses on
Mentoring
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Offer your services as a peer tutor or mentor to students struggling with thermodynamics.
- Review thermodynamics concepts and prepare materials to support your tutees.
- Meet with your tutees regularly, providing guidance and support.
Career center
Learners who complete The Sustainability Imperative will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Managers are responsible for developing and implementing sustainability strategies for organizations. They work to reduce the environmental impact of organizations and promote social responsibility. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a solid foundation in sustainability principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to manage sustainability programs and projects.
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientists study the Earth's climate system and its interactions with human activities. They work to understand the causes and effects of climate change and develop solutions to mitigate its impacts. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the science of climate change. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to analyze climate data and develop climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and its various components, including the atmosphere, water, and soil. They also study the effects of human activities on the environment. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the current state of the environment, including the challenges facing our planet. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to analyze environmental data and develop solutions to environmental problems. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in this field, such as an understanding of environmental regulations, the ability to conduct environmental impact assessments, and the ability to develop and implement environmental management plans.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. They work to protect the environment and human health from the harmful effects of pollution and other environmental hazards. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a strong understanding of environmental engineering principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to design and implement effective environmental engineering solutions.
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on environmental issues. They work to help organizations comply with environmental regulations and reduce their environmental impact. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of environmental consulting principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to provide effective environmental consulting services.
Sustainability Analyst
Sustainability Analyst
Sustainability Analysts assess the sustainability performance of organizations. They work to help organizations improve their sustainability performance and reduce their environmental impact. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of sustainability assessment principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to conduct sustainability assessments and develop sustainability improvement plans.
Environmental Justice Advocate
Environmental Justice Advocate
Environmental Justice Advocates work to ensure that all people have access to a clean and healthy environment. They work to address environmental racism and other forms of environmental injustice. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of environmental justice principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to advocate for environmental justice.
Environmental Policy Analyst
Environmental Policy Analyst
Environmental Policy Analysts develop and analyze environmental policies. They work to ensure that environmental policies are effective and efficient. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a strong understanding of environmental policy analysis principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to develop and analyze environmental policies.
Natural Resource Manager
Natural Resource Manager
Natural Resource Managers manage natural resources, such as forests, water, and wildlife. They work to ensure that natural resources are used sustainably and that ecosystems are protected. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of natural resource management principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to manage natural resources sustainably.
Environmental Educator
Environmental Educator
Environmental Educators develop and deliver educational programs on environmental issues. They work to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote environmental stewardship. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a strong foundation in environmental education principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to develop and deliver effective environmental education programs.
Energy Auditor
Energy Auditor
Energy Auditors assess the energy efficiency of buildings and other facilities. They work to identify ways to reduce energy consumption and improve energy efficiency. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a solid understanding of energy auditing principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to conduct energy audits and develop energy efficiency improvement plans.
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientists study and work to protect natural resources, such as forests, wetlands, and wildlife. They work to ensure that natural resources are used sustainably and that ecosystems are protected. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of conservation science principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to conduct conservation research and develop conservation management plans.
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 and wind power. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a strong foundation in renewable energy engineering principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to design and implement effective renewable energy systems.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners design and plan cities and other urban areas. They work to create sustainable and livable communities. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of urban planning principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to design and plan sustainable and livable communities.
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architects design and plan outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and other green spaces. They work to create sustainable and beautiful landscapes. The Sustainability Imperative course will provide you with a solid foundation in landscape architecture principles and practices. This course will also help you develop the skills you need to design and plan sustainable and beautiful landscapes.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/a4zzv7/the
Reading list
We've selected ten 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
The Sustainability Imperative.
Save
Considered one of the most comprehensive texts on climate change, this book explores 100 climate change solutions that are feasible and have the potential to reverse global warming. It is recommended as a supplemental text, providing in-depth information and case studies on various climate solutions.
Offers a comprehensive analysis of the potential consequences of climate change, providing insights into the potential impacts on society, ecosystems, and human civilization. It is recommended as an additional reading, providing a broader perspective on the severity and urgency of climate change.
This Pulitzer Prize-winning book explores the history of extinctions and the potential for a sixth mass extinction event. It provides valuable insights into the interconnectedness of species and the importance of biodiversity conservation, supplementing the course's focus on environmental sustainability.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of renewable energy technologies, including solar, wind, hydro, biomass, and geothermal energy. It is recommended as a supplemental text for learners interested in gaining a deeper understanding of renewable energy principles and applications.
This introductory textbook on ecological economics explores the relationship between the economy and the environment. It is recommended as a supplemental text for learners interested in understanding the economic dimensions of sustainability and environmental policy.
Save
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the interconnected stories of trees and humans across centuries. It is recommended as additional reading for learners interested in exploring the ecological and cultural significance of trees and forests, complementing the course's emphasis on biodiversity conservation.
Save
Offers a hopeful perspective on the climate crisis, exploring solutions and pathways to a sustainable future. It is recommended as additional reading for learners seeking inspiration and actionable steps to address climate change.
Save
This thought-provoking book explores the hypothetical scenario of what would happen to the Earth if humans suddenly disappeared. It complements the course's discussion on the environmental impacts of human activities and the importance of sustainability.
This Pulitzer Prize-winning book examines the factors that have led to the collapse of past civilizations. It provides valuable insights into the potential consequences of environmental degradation and social inequality, complementing the course's focus on sustainability and social equity.
This sweeping history of humankind explores the evolution of our species and the challenges we face today. It provides a broader context for understanding the sustainability imperative and the need for collective action on environmental and social issues.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/a4zzv7/the
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Rating
4.9
Effort
17 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Michael J. Readey, Ph.D.
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
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