Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations from edX

The MOOC is a project developed by the Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment (CCSI); supported by the African Legal Support Facility, Anglo American, and Ford Foundation; produced by Econ Films; and hosted by SDG Academy. To learn more, pleaseclick here.

The Paris Agreement on Climate Change and the Agenda 2030 outline a global consensus on the interlinked needs to curb human-induced climate change and achieve sustainable development. The underlying transformations needed to achieve climate goals and other Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) include the rapid decarbonization of our global energy systems and economies, and a scale-up of new technologies to meet the needs of a growing population. Mining and materials are at the heart of these sustainable development transformations and present both challenges and opportunities. Despite the important implications for mining investments and mineral-rich governments, the world still lacks a coherent vision to guide global actors in shifting the course of mining projects and mining companies in a way that leads to deep decarbonization; protects and preserves our fragile ecosystems; addresses the development needs of resource-dependent, low-income countries; and respects the rights and interests of impacted communities.

This course examines these challenges and opportunities and how we can pursue all these transformations in a manner consistent with human rights, poverty elimination, social inclusion, protection and preservation of ecosystems, and economic development.

This course is for:

Mid- to senior-level government officials, members of parliament, and parliamentary staffers;
Civil society leaders with a track record of analysis, oversight, and policy advocacy related to mining, the environment, climate action, or a just energy transition;
Professors, researchers, graduate students, and other academics undertaking applied research or teaching on mining, the environment, climate action, or a just energy transition;
Professionals from development agencies , including aid agencies and international financial institutions;
Representatives from extractive industry or renewable energy companies and associations such as chambers of energy and minerals or industry think tanks; and
Anyone interested in the role of extractive industries in the energy transition.

What you'll learn

In this course, you will learn from leading experts in various areas of knowledge and with diverse viewpoints. Key topics covered include:

The relevance of the energy and technological transformations to mining and materials value chains and their stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, companies, financiers, civil society, local communities, and the general public;
The roles and responsibilities of mining and materials stakeholders in the sustainable development transformations, including climate change mitigation, adaptation, and resilience;
The sustainable development challenges of renewable energy systems and an increasingly urbanized and digital economy;
Security of supply of critical minerals;
The environmental, climate, social, human rights, and economic impacts of mining and materials value chains; and
The role of national plans, strategies, laws, and policies in addressing these challenges.

What's inside

Learning objectives

The relevance of the energy and technological transformations to mining and materials value chains and their stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, companies, financiers, civil society, local communities, and the general public;
The roles and responsibilities of mining and materials stakeholders in the sustainable development transformations, including climate change mitigation, adaptation, and resilience;
The sustainable development challenges of renewable energy systems and an increasingly urbanized and digital economy;

Security of supply of critical minerals;
The environmental, climate, social, human rights, and economic impacts of mining and materials value chains; and
The role of national plans, strategies, laws, and policies in addressing these challenges.

The relevance of the energy and technological transformations to mining and materials value chains and their stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, companies, financiers, civil society, local communities, and the general public;
The roles and responsibilities of mining and materials stakeholders in the sustainable development transformations, including climate change mitigation, adaptation, and resilience;
The sustainable development challenges of renewable energy systems and an increasingly urbanized and digital economy;
Security of supply of critical minerals;
The environmental, climate, social, human rights, and economic impacts of mining and materials value chains; and
The role of national plans, strategies, laws, and policies in addressing these challenges.

Syllabus

Module 1: Contextualizing the scale and urgency of the energy and technological transitions that underpin the Sustainable Development Goals

Module 2: How the world is making, measuring, and monitoring progress toward global goals

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Introduces the field of mining and its relevance to the energy and technological transformations that underpin the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Provides an overview of the roles and responsibilities of mining and materials stakeholders in the sustainable development transformations, including climate change mitigation, adaptation, and resilience

Examines the sustainable development challenges of renewable energy systems and an increasingly urbanized and digital economy

Explores the environmental, climate, social, human rights, and economic impacts of mining and materials value chains

Taught by leading experts in the field with extensive knowledge and practical experience in mining, sustainable development, and climate change mitigation

Offers a comprehensive study of the role of national plans, strategies, laws, and policies in addressing the challenges of mining and sustainable development

Reviews summary

Comprehensive overview of sustainable mining

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and highly relevant overview of the intersection between mining, materials, and sustainable development. Students consistently praise the knowledgeable instructors and diverse expert insights, finding the content on human rights, community impacts, and the circular economy particularly strong and often overlooked. While it successfully connects mining to global sustainability goals, some feedback indicates that it can be high-level in certain areas, potentially requiring additional research for deep technical dives. Learners also note that the course is geared towards professionals and assumes some prior industry or policy knowledge, which might make it challenging for complete beginners. Overall, it provides a valuable framework for professionals and academics in the field.

Highlights critical human rights and community impacts.

"The discussions on human rights and community impacts were particularly strong and often overlooked in other materials."

"I appreciate the emphasis on human rights and the circular economy."

"It truly connects the dots between mining and global sustainability goals... I appreciated the emphasis on human rights."

Delivered by knowledgeable experts with diverse viewpoints.

"The lecturers were knowledgeable and presented complex ideas clearly."

"The expertise of the instructors shines through, and they present a balanced perspective on complex issues."

"The expert insights were invaluable. It covers a vast scope but manages to maintain depth where it matters."

Offers a broad and essential understanding of sustainable mining.

"This course provided an incredibly comprehensive overview of the intersection between mining, materials, and sustainable development."

"A solid introduction to a crucial topic... the course achieved its objectives."

"It's very relevant for anyone working in the extractive industries or environmental policy."

Lecture delivery and pacing could be improved for better engagement.

"I found some of the lectures quite dry and theoretical, lacking engaging visuals or interactive elements."

"I struggled to stay focused at times, which made it harder to grasp some of the complex policy discussions."

"The pacing was also inconsistent, which made some modules feel rushed while others dragged."

Offers breadth but less depth in certain technical areas.

"Some parts felt a bit too high-level. I was hoping for more specific case studies or deeper dives into certain technologies."

"I felt I needed to do a lot of external research to fill in gaps."

"The policy discussions were strong, but the technical aspects felt less detailed."

Best suited for those with some industry or policy background.

"It's definitely geared towards professionals, and it assumes a certain level of prior knowledge in policy or industry, which might be challenging for complete beginners."

"It's foundational, so if you're already an expert, you might find some parts review, but great for broadening understanding."

"I found it very relevant for my work as it builds upon my existing understanding of the sector."

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 Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations with these activities:

Review key concepts from previous environmental science courses

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Solidify your understanding of the foundational principles that underlie the course material.

Browse courses on Energy Transitions

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Recall the key concepts from your previous environmental science courses.
Identify the core ideas and their interconnections.
Review your notes, textbooks, and other learning materials.

Read 'Sustainable Energy: Without the Hot Air' by David MacKay

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in sustainable energy.

View Melania on Amazon

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Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key passages.
Summarize the main arguments and evidence presented in the book.

Develop a mind map or concept diagram of the course topics

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Visualize and organize your understanding of the interconnections between the course concepts.

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Brainstorm the key concepts and ideas covered in the course.
Identify the relationships and connections between the concepts.
Use a mind mapping or concept diagram tool to create a visual representation of these connections.

Five other activities

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Explore the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) website

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Gain a deeper understanding of the interconnected nature of the SDGs and their relevance to the course material.

Browse courses on Sustainable Development Goals

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Visit the UN SDGs website (https://sdgs.un.org/).
Explore the different goals and targets, paying attention to their interconnections.
Identify the specific ways in which the SDGs relate to the topics covered in this course.

Participate in online discussion forums or study groups

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Engage with your peers, exchange ideas, and clarify your understanding of the course material.

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Join online discussion forums or study groups related to the topics covered in the course.
Participate actively in discussions, asking and answering questions.
Share your insights and perspectives, and learn from others.

Develop a research proposal on a topic related to mining and sustainable development

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Apply your learning to a practical problem, deepen your research skills, and contribute to the body of knowledge on mining and sustainability.

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Identify a specific topic of interest within the field of mining and sustainable development.
Develop a research question and formulate a hypothesis.
Design a research methodology to collect and analyze data.
Write a research proposal outlining your project plan and expected outcomes.
Present your proposal to your instructor or a peer group for feedback.

Create a presentation or infographic on the environmental and social impacts of mining

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Synthesize your knowledge of the course material and communicate it effectively to a wider audience.

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Gather information from the course materials, research articles, and other credible sources.
Organize the information into a coherent and engaging narrative.
Design a visually appealing presentation or infographic.

Attend a workshop or conference on mining and sustainable development

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Engage with experts in the field, learn about current trends and challenges, and expand your network.

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Identify a relevant workshop or conference.
Register and attend the event.
Actively participate in discussions and networking events.

Career center

Learners who complete Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Mining Engineer

As a Mining Engineer, you would oversee and design strategies for extracting valuable minerals and metals from beneath the Earth's surface. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, can help build a foundation in sustainable mining practices, environmental regulations, and the socioeconomic impacts of mining. The course's focus on decarbonization pathways and the circular economy is particularly relevant to this role, as sustainable mining can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote resource conservation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mining Engineer

Mining Geologist

As a Mining Geologist, you will explore and evaluate geological formations to identify and extract valuable minerals and metals. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, can help build a foundation in the sustainable mining practices and environmental regulations related to mining. The course's focus on decarbonization pathways and the circular economy is particularly relevant to this role, as sustainable mining can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote resource conservation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mining Geologist

Development Economist

As a Development Economist, you will conduct research and analysis to inform policy decisions related to economic development, including in mineral-rich countries. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, can help build a foundation in the economic challenges and opportunities of mining and materials value chains. The course covers topics such as the role of mining in economic development, the challenges of sustainable development transformations, and the security of supply of critical minerals.

See salaries and explore the career path for Development Economist

Environmental Scientist

As an Environmental Scientist, you will conduct research and analysis to assess and mitigate the environmental impacts of human activities, including mining. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, can help build a foundation in the environmental impacts of mining and materials value chains. The course covers topics such as the environmental, climate, and social impacts of mining, as well as the role of national plans and policies in addressing these challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Corporate Social Responsibility Manager

As a Corporate Social Responsibility Manager, you will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies that promote the social and environmental performance of a company. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, can help you gain insights into the social, environmental, and economic impacts of mining and materials value chains. The course covers topics such as the rights and interests of impacted communities, the role of national plans and policies in addressing these challenges, and the implications of sustainable development transformations for communities, workers, and suppliers in mineral-rich countries.

See salaries and explore the career path for Corporate Social Responsibility Manager

Sustainability Manager

As a Sustainability Manager, you will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies that promote the social and environmental performance of a company, including in the mining industry. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, can help you gain insights into the social, environmental, and economic impacts of mining and materials value chains. The course covers topics such as the rights and interests of impacted communities, the role of national plans and policies in addressing these challenges, and the implications of sustainable development transformations for communities, workers, and suppliers in mineral-rich countries.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

Natural Resources Economist

As a Natural Resources Economist, you will conduct research and analysis to inform policy decisions related to the use and management of natural resources, including mining. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, can help build a foundation in the economic implications of mining and materials value chains. The course covers topics such as the role of mining in economic development, the challenges of sustainable development transformations, and the security of supply of critical minerals.

See salaries and explore the career path for Natural Resources Economist

Mining Lawyer

As a Mining Lawyer, you will provide legal advice and representation to mining companies and other stakeholders in the mining industry. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, can help you gain insights into the legal and regulatory frameworks governing mining and materials value chains. The course covers topics such as the rights and interests of impacted communities, the role of national plans and policies in addressing these challenges, and the implications of sustainable development transformations for communities, workers, and suppliers in mineral-rich countries.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mining Lawyer

Energy Analyst

As an Energy Analyst, you will conduct research and analysis to help organizations understand and mitigate the risks and impacts of energy production and consumption. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, may be useful in gaining an understanding of the decarbonization pathways and implications for mining and materials value chains. The course covers topics such as the role of mining and materials in the energy transition, the challenges of renewable energy systems, and the security of supply of critical minerals.

See salaries and explore the career path for Energy Analyst

Public Policy Analyst

As a Public Policy Analyst, you will conduct research and analysis to inform policy decisions that affect the public. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, can help build a foundation in the policy implications of mining and materials value chains. The course covers topics such as the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders in sustainable development transformations, the challenges of decarbonization pathways, and the security of supply of critical minerals.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Policy Analyst

Materials Scientist

As a Materials Scientist, you will research and develop new materials for use in various industries, including mining. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, can help you gain insights into the sustainable development challenges of mining and materials value chains. The course covers topics such as the environmental, climate, and social impacts of mining, as well as the role of national plans and policies in addressing these challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Scientist

Geotechnical Engineer

As a Geotechnical Engineer, you will design and oversee the construction of structures and infrastructure in soil and rock, including mining operations. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, can help build a foundation in the sustainable mining practices and environmental regulations related to mining. The course's focus on decarbonization pathways and the circular economy is particularly relevant to this role, as sustainable mining can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote resource conservation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geotechnical Engineer

Sustainability Consultant

As a Sustainability Consultant, you will work with organizations to identify and implement sustainable practices that reduce their environmental impact and promote social responsibility. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, may be useful in understanding the challenges and opportunities of sustainable mining and materials value chains. The course covers topics such as the environmental, climate, and social impacts of mining, as well as the role of national plans and policies in addressing these challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant

Climate Change Analyst

As a Climate Change Analyst, you will conduct research and analysis to help organizations understand and mitigate the risks and impacts of climate change. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, may be useful in gaining an understanding of the decarbonization pathways and implications for mining and materials value chains. The course covers topics such as the role of mining and materials in the energy transition, the challenges of renewable energy systems, and the security of supply of critical minerals.

See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Change Analyst

Environmental Engineer

As an Environmental Engineer, you play an important role in protecting human health and the environment. This course, Mining and Materials for Sustainable Development Transformations, may be useful as it covers topics such as the environmental impacts of mining and materials value chains, climate change adaptation and resilience, and sustainable development challenges of renewable energy systems. The course can provide insights into the environmental regulations and best practices that are crucial for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer