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The Sustainable Development Goals – A global, transdisciplinary vision for the future
Katherine Richardson
Katherine Richardson
In 2015, the UN launched the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Adopted by 193 member states, the goals represent an important international step in setting humanity on a trajectory towards sustainable development. Within this course, you will get a historical overview of how sustainability has been understood, as well as a thorough introduction to the SDGs – what they are, how progress can be measured, and how the SDGs are relevant for the management of the global systems supporting humanity. The course will examine how various societal actors are responding to and implementing the SDGs.
Read more
In 2015, the UN launched the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Adopted by 193 member states, the goals represent an important international step in setting humanity on a trajectory towards sustainable development. Within this course, you will get a historical overview of how sustainability has been understood, as well as a thorough introduction to the SDGs – what they are, how progress can be measured, and how the SDGs are relevant for the management of the global systems supporting humanity. The course will examine how various societal actors are responding to and implementing the SDGs.
Read more
In 2015, the UN launched the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Adopted by 193 member states, the goals represent an important international step in setting humanity on a trajectory towards sustainable development. Within this course, you will get a historical overview of how sustainability has been understood, as well as a thorough introduction to the SDGs – what they are, how progress can be measured, and how the SDGs are relevant for the management of the global systems supporting humanity. The course will examine how various societal actors are responding to and implementing the SDGs.
While all of the SDGs are essential to sustainable development, SDG 13, Climate Action, is usually perceived as the most urgent in terms of the need for a swift implementation on a global scale. Therefore, particular focus is given to this SDG. Through the course, you will gain up-to-date knowledge of the current understanding of human impacts on the Earth at the planetary level. Progress towards establishing global management of human interactions with the climate system within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is also discussed.
The course is designed and taught by Professor Katherine Richardson, who is a member of the 15-person panel appointed by the UN General Secretary in 2016 to write the 2019 Global Sustainable Development Report. In each lecture, Katherine interviews experts who provide insights relevant to the topic at hand.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/jce4je/the
What's inside
Syllabus
Sustainable Development as a Global Goal
In this first module, you will be introduced to the concept of sustainability, its roots, and history of development. The framework of the SDGs is outlined in more detail, and we will discuss what sets them apart from previous international agreements, how we can measure progress and how the goals are interconnected. We will touch upon food systems, as an example of how the SDGs are relevant for - and can be implemented in - global systems through international cooperation.
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Syllabus
Sustainable Development as a Global Goal
In this first module, you will be introduced to the concept of sustainability, its roots, and history of development. The framework of the SDGs is outlined in more detail, and we will discuss what sets them apart from previous international agreements, how we can measure progress and how the goals are interconnected. We will touch upon food systems, as an example of how the SDGs are relevant for - and can be implemented in - global systems through international cooperation.
Read more
Managing human impacts on the natural world
In this second module, we will have a more detailed look at the scientific evidence that human activities are influencing the Earth at the planetary level. You will be introduced to the concepts of Anthropocene and Planetary Boundaries. The biosphere (all living organisms or "biodiversity") is arguably just as - or more - important than climate for establishing the environmental conditions we enjoy on Earth, but receives much less attention. This module, therefore, will focus on monitoring and managing human impacts on climate and biodiversity as well as the potential consequences of failing to meet the goals of the SDGs relating to climate and biodiversity.
Social sustainability and the way forward
Where the last module focused on the impact of humanity's activities on the bio-physical components of the Earth system, this final section first focuses on the condition of humans, themselves, and the SDGs focusing on the improvement of that condition. You will be introduced to the concept of Doughnut Economics, which builds on the Planetary Boundaries framework. Finally, this module examines current status for implementation and provides examples of how different actors are engaging in global efforts to achieve the goals.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Explores the history and development of sustainability concepts, providing a foundation for understanding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Covers in depth how human activities impact the natural world, providing a scientific understanding of climate change, biodiversity loss, and planetary boundaries
Analyzes the social aspects of sustainability, focusing on improving human condition and well-being
Led by Professor Katherine Richardson, a renowned expert in sustainable development and a contributor to the UN Global Sustainable Development Report
Incorporates expert insights through interviews, providing diverse perspectives and practical knowledge
Suitable for professionals and students in the fields of sustainability, environmental science, policy, and social sciences
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Reviews summary
Sustainable development goals leadership
learners say this well-received, engaging course provides a largely positive outlook on efforts made to achieve the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), often emphasizing the interconnections between these goals.
Learners find the course to be well-structured and organized, praising the logical progression of topics and the use of various formats, such as videos, readings, and quizzes.
"The course content is very well organised and simple to follow. Professor Katherine Richardson is an awesome communicator and she is clear in her communication and her interviews with the various guests, was thought provoking."
"Well built course content, giving good, balanced overview of the SDGs their different aspects. Thorough and constructive approach. Recommended for anyone intrested in knowing more about the SDGs!"
"The course was simply amazing. So much of information in such concise form. It is very relevant to the day also. This course can help any and every individual to live as a better citizen on this planet."
"The course, in short period, has imparted enough and necessary knowledge in SDGs and Development, as a whole. The course has invoked me to start looking for scholarships so that i can gain further knowledge in SDGs."
The instructor, Dr. Katherine Richardson, is consistently praised for her engaging teaching style, clear communication, and passion for the subject matter.
"Professor Katherine Richardson has done a great job, easy to understand and clear examples. In addition to the great lectures and study material, the interviews and very qualify guests were very useful and important for learning. Thx."
"Professor Katherine Richardson was wonderful in many ways. Especially the way she covers multiple perspectives on SDGs clearly mirrors how this comprehensive vision is constituted."
"Professor Richardson has done a great job in easy to understand and clear examples."
"This was my first time trying COURSERA and im positively surprised. I enjoyed the self-study whilst getting to read the other students point of views. Overall, im most definitely going to submit another course and get as much out of it as i did with this one!"
Learners appreciate the expert interviews and real-world examples included in the course materials, saying they offer diverse perspectives and practical insights.
"it is different and nice to have interviews with experts from various topic during lectures. that helped me to see different approaches and common points together."
"The course contains a very interesting global view of the sustainable development goal that makes want to start finding solutions to reach these goals and reach sustainable economic development"
"Thank you for sharing this golden course! We all have our role and our job in this common SDG'S goals! For the future of life on earth our kids and all of us. I highly recommend this course! "
"Including more case studies on implementation mechanisms, as well as an update on where we stand, now, in 2020, five years after the establishment of goals, would make the course more practical."
Learners say this course provides valuable information about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and their interconnections, including their history and the reasons for establishing them.
"This course gave me in a short time the best understanding of what sustainability means and the importance of not focusing on a single SDG. Thank you very much!"
"This course gave me a global perspective of how important it is to understand how humans impact different SDGs and where we are today."
"The Sustainable Development Goals – A global, transdisciplinary vision for the future was a very distinguish learning course to know more about human resourcefulness."
"Overall this is a great course, but please shorten your video lecture (15-20 minutes for a video lecture is too long because we can lose our focus)."
A few learners note that some of the course content and data feel outdated and could benefit from updates to reflect current trends and developments in sustainability.
"A good course on the Sustainable Development Goals. If you are familiar with the 17 goals and what their purpose are, this course is good to provide further awareness and understanding on the topic."
"Some links have been disabled and needs to be
looked into.It also needs to be up dated .Lastly considering the rigorous content of the course, the units covered and marks scored should be reflected on the certificate. This will be be better confirmation to employers and peers of the skills and knowledge acquired."
"The course could include more insight into development challenges of developing countries like India where you could actually find a lot of research around challenging SDG framework."
"The research papers provided in the readings are too long and hard compared with the lecture videos, so I find myself skipping through many of them."
Some learners with prior knowledge of sustainable development find the course content to be too basic and lacking in depth, particularly regarding the implementation and challenges of the SDGs.
"The topic of the course is crucial and very interesting, however, the Professor way of teaching and representing the materials of the course is boring, not inspiring and creative, I find it a bit outdated."
"While providing a solid outline of the SDGs, the linkages among them and real-life examples, I wish the course had gone more in-depth into how they were formed and the politics impacting them."
"If you already have training in sustainability or environmental engineering, this mey not be the course for you for very basic concepts are revised. Nevertheless, it will bring you up to date with the ODGs, some interesting approaches to their understanding and transcending interviews with experts. "
"The course is a great introduction to the SDG's and its importance; however the underlining factor that many are not speaking of is the role of finance and the access to finance if a country is to meet all 17 goals. Are the superpowers and developed countries doing their part to attain these goals???"
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 Sustainable Development Goals – A global, transdisciplinary vision for the future with these
activities:
UN Sustainable Development Goals Tutorial
Show steps
Bolster your understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their history.
Browse courses on
UN Sustainable Development Goals
Show steps
-
Complete the free online tutorial offered by the UN.
-
Take notes on the key points covered.
Review "Doughnut Economics"
Show steps
Introduce yourself to the core concept of Doughnut Economics to prepare for course content on socioeconomic sustainability.
View
Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read and take notes on the first three chapters of the book.
-
Create a mind map or summary of the key concepts.
SDG Implementation Discussion Group
Show steps
Engage with peers and share ideas for implementing the SDGs.
Show steps
-
Join or form a study group with other students.
-
Discuss various SDG implementation strategies.
-
Develop recommendations for improving SDG implementation.
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Design a Sustainable City
Show steps
Apply the principles of sustainable development to design a hypothetical city.
Browse courses on
Sustainable Development
Show steps
-
Research best practices and case studies of sustainable cities.
-
Create a concept design for your sustainable city.
-
Present your design to the class or a group.
Circular Economy Workshop
Show steps
Gain practical knowledge and insights on transitioning to a circular economy.
Browse courses on
Circular Economy
Show steps
-
Attend a circular economy workshop or conference.
-
Take notes on the key concepts and best practices.
-
Identify ways to apply circular economy principles in your own work or community.
UN Sustainable Development Goals Tutorial
Show steps
Bolster your understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their history.
Browse courses on
UN Sustainable Development Goals
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Complete the free online tutorial offered by the UN.
- Take notes on the key points covered.
Review "Doughnut Economics"
Show steps
Introduce yourself to the core concept of Doughnut Economics to prepare for course content on socioeconomic sustainability.
View
Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and take notes on the first three chapters of the book.
- Create a mind map or summary of the key concepts.
SDG Implementation Discussion Group
Show steps
Engage with peers and share ideas for implementing the SDGs.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join or form a study group with other students.
- Discuss various SDG implementation strategies.
- Develop recommendations for improving SDG implementation.
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Design a Sustainable City
Show steps
Apply the principles of sustainable development to design a hypothetical city.
Browse courses on
Sustainable Development
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research best practices and case studies of sustainable cities.
- Create a concept design for your sustainable city.
- Present your design to the class or a group.
Circular Economy Workshop
Show steps
Gain practical knowledge and insights on transitioning to a circular economy.
Browse courses on
Circular Economy
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Attend a circular economy workshop or conference.
- Take notes on the key concepts and best practices.
- Identify ways to apply circular economy principles in your own work or community.
Career center
Learners who complete The Sustainable Development Goals – A global, transdisciplinary vision for the future will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Climate Change Analyst
Climate Change Analyst
Climate Change Analysts develop strategies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the effects of climate change. This course provides a solid foundation by providing an in-depth look at the science behind climate change. It also discusses the policy frameworks that are being developed to address this issue. These skills will help you better understand the challenges and opportunities presented by this crucial field. The course could also help prepare you for a role as a Climate Change Consultant or a Climate Change Policy Advisor.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants help organizations improve their environmental performance and reduce their carbon footprint. This course provides the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. It covers topics such as sustainable development, climate change, and environmental management. You will also learn how to assess an organization's sustainability performance and develop strategies to improve it. This course can help you build a strong foundation for a career as a Sustainability Consultant or a Sustainability Manager.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and work to protect it. This course will provide you with the scientific knowledge you need to understand the complex issues facing our planet. You will also learn about the policies and regulations that are being developed to address these issues. This course can help you prepare for a career as an Environmental Scientist or an Environmental Policy Analyst.
Renewable Energy Project Developer
Renewable Energy Project Developer
Renewable Energy Project Developers oversee the development and construction of renewable energy projects. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the technical and financial aspects of renewable energy development. You will also learn about the policy frameworks that are being developed to support the growth of renewable energy. This course can help you prepare for a career as a Renewable Energy Project Developer or a Renewable Energy Project Manager.
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Managers oversee the development and implementation of CSR programs. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. It covers topics such as sustainability, ethics, and stakeholder engagement. You will also learn how to develop and implement CSR strategies that align with an organization's values and goals. This course can help you prepare for a career as a CSR Manager or a Sustainability Manager.
Nonprofit Executive Director
Nonprofit Executive Director
Nonprofit Executive Directors oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. It covers topics such as fundraising, strategic planning, and program management. You will also learn how to build relationships with donors, volunteers, and other stakeholders. This course can help you prepare for a career as a Nonprofit Executive Director or a Nonprofit Program Manager.
Sustainable Agriculture Consultant
Sustainable Agriculture Consultant
Sustainable Agriculture Consultants help farmers and ranchers adopt sustainable practices. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the principles of sustainable agriculture. You will also learn about the policies and programs that are available to support sustainable agriculture. This course can help you prepare for a career as a Sustainable Agriculture Consultant or a Sustainable Agriculture Educator.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues. This course will provide you with the skills you need to conduct research, analyze data, and write policy briefs. You will also learn about the policymaking process and how to advocate for policy change. This course can help you prepare for a career as a Policy Analyst or a Legislative Aide.
Climate Adaptation Planner
Climate Adaptation Planner
Climate Adaptation Planners develop strategies to help communities adapt to the effects of climate change. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the science of climate change and its impacts on communities. You will also learn about the planning and policy tools that are available to help communities adapt to climate change. This course can help you prepare for a career as a Climate Adaptation Planner or a Sustainability Planner.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyers represent clients in environmental disputes and advise them on environmental law compliance. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the legal framework that governs environmental protection. You will also learn about the litigation and negotiation skills that are essential for success in this field. This course can help you prepare for a career as an Environmental Lawyer or an Environmental Policy Analyst.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the science of environmental engineering. You will also learn about the design and construction of environmental control systems. This course can help you prepare for a career as an Environmental Engineer or an Environmental Consultant.
Environmental Educator
Environmental Educator
Environmental Educators develop and deliver educational programs about environmental issues. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. It covers topics such as environmental science, curriculum development, and teaching methods. You will also learn how to develop and implement educational programs that engage and inspire learners. This course can help you prepare for a career as an Environmental Educator or a Sustainability Educator.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Managers oversee the development and implementation of sustainability programs. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. It covers topics such as sustainability, environmental management, and stakeholder engagement. You will also learn how to develop and implement sustainability strategies that align with an organization's values and goals. This course can help you prepare for a career as a Sustainability Manager or a Corporate Social Responsibility Manager.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners develop plans for the development and use of land in urban areas. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. It covers topics such as land use planning, transportation planning, and environmental planning. You will also learn how to engage with stakeholders and develop plans that meet the needs of the community. This course can help you prepare for a career as an Urban Planner or a Regional Planner.
Agricultural Economist
Agricultural Economist
Agricultural Economists study the economic aspects of agriculture and food production. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career in this field. It will provide you with a foundation in economic principles and their application to agriculture. You will also learn about the policies and programs that affect agricultural production and marketing. This course can help you prepare for a career as an Agricultural Economist or an Agricultural Policy Analyst.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/jce4je/the
Reading list
We've selected 14 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 Sustainable Development Goals – A global, transdisciplinary vision for the future.
Provides an official overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, their targets, and the indicators that will be used to track progress towards achieving them. It is an essential resource for anyone who wants to understand the details of the SDGs and how they are being implemented.
Provides a comprehensive assessment of the scientific evidence for climate change, its causes, and its potential impacts. It is an essential resource for anyone who wants to understand the science of climate change and its implications for the future.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of sustainable development, its history, and the various frameworks that have been developed to measure and achieve it. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the theoretical foundations of the SDGs.
Save
Provides a new economic model that is designed to meet the needs of the 21st century. It is based on the idea of a "doughnut" economy, which safe and just space for humanity to thrive within the ecological limits of the planet.
Save
Provides a detailed plan for how to reverse global warming. It is based on the work of hundreds of scientists and experts and provides a roadmap for a sustainable future.
Save
Classic work on the limits to economic growth. It was first published in 1972 and has been updated several times since then. The book provides a powerful warning about the dangers of overconsumption and environmental degradation.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the environmental challenges that we face and the solutions that are available. It must-read for anyone who wants to understand the complex issues surrounding sustainability.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the environmental issues that we face and the solutions that are available. It valuable resource for students and anyone else who wants to learn more about sustainability.
Provides a powerful and thought-provoking account of the current extinction crisis and its implications for the future of life on Earth. It must-read for anyone who is concerned about the environmental impact of human activities.
Provides a chilling account of the potential consequences of climate change. It must-read for anyone who wants to understand the risks that we face and the urgent need to take action.
This novel tells the story of nine people whose lives are interconnected by trees. It beautifully written and thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between humans and nature.
Save
Explores the relationship between humans and plants from an indigenous perspective. It beautifully written and thought-provoking read for anyone who is interested in the natural world.
Explores the fascinating world of fungi. It beautifully written and thought-provoking read for anyone who is interested in the natural world.
Explores the future of humanity beyond Earth. It discusses the possibility of terraforming Mars, interstellar travel, and immortality. It fascinating and thought-provoking read for anyone who is interested in the future of our species.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/jce4je/the
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Effort
3 weeks of study, 2-4 hours/week
Level
Introductory
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Institution
University of Copenhagen
Instructor
Katherine Richardson
Language
English
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Good to know
Explores the history and development of sustainability concepts, providing a foundation for understanding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Covers in depth how human activities impact the natural world, providing a scientific understanding of climate change, biodiversity loss, and planetary boundaries
Analyzes the social aspects of sustainability, focusing on improving human condition and well-being
Led by Professor Katherine Richardson, a renowned expert in sustainable development and a contributor to the UN Global Sustainable Development Report
Incorporates expert insights through interviews, providing diverse perspectives and practical knowledge
Suitable for professionals and students in the fields of sustainability, environmental science, policy, and social sciences
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