Designing a Climate-Neutral World: An Introduction from edX

Mitigation of climate change is one of the most important challenges of our times. To prevent irreversible damage to human societies and the environment, it was agreed that world countries should limit the global average temperature rise. To avoid the dangerous impacts of climate change, it is needed to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 °C or even to 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels.

This requires cutting global greenhouse gas emissions to near-zero levels in the coming decades. Especially for the energy system, a drastic transformation is needed.

We know that such a transformation is possible, but it will require virtually every organization, whether it is a steel company, a hospital, or a municipality, to tackle climate change challenges. The question that often arises is – where to start?

This course is designed for the professionals that might be the leaders of this transformation in their organization - policymakers, sustainability consultants or professionals from other fields - who want to familiarize themselves with climate change mitigation strategies so they can apply it to their projects.

In the first part of the course, you will obtain basic knowledge including greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the various types of GHG (CO2 and non-CO2), their emissions, and about the Paris Agreement. You will also learn about current energy systems, electricity generation, and the energy demand of various sectors.

Next, we will focus on courses of action and methods that will assist in selecting the best options in any type of project or organization. We will present methodologies for measurement of emission reductions and calculation of costs. Here we will introduce you to the concept of “marginal abatement cost curves” which will help you analyze alternatives by comparing emission reduction potential with the costs involved. Finally, various options such as renewable energy, energy efficiency and electrification will be discussed as the major emission reduction strategies.

We invite you to join this journey and to bring your own experiences and challenges to your organization.

What's inside

Learning objectives

• understand what is needed to limit global average temperature rise to below 2 °c compared to pre-industrial levels
• understand current energy systems and energy demand in various sectors
• calculate emissions and emission reduction potentials.

• determine mitigation costs
• choose alternatives for maximum mitigation for the lowest cost
• understand the critical elements of the energy transition

• understand what is needed to limit global average temperature rise to below 2 °c compared to pre-industrial levels
• understand current energy systems and energy demand in various sectors
• calculate emissions and emission reduction potentials.
• determine mitigation costs
• choose alternatives for maximum mitigation for the lowest cost
• understand the critical elements of the energy transition

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores climate change mitigation strategies, which are highly relevant to climate scientists and other professionals in the field

Builds a foundation in current energy systems, energy demand, and greenhouse gas emission measurements, which is valuable for those new to the field

Teaches the concept of marginal abatement cost curves, which helps learners analyze alternatives for reducing emissions

Provides methods for calculating emission reduction potential and costs, which is useful for professionals involved in emissions management

Focuses on the energy transition and renewable energy strategies, which aligns with current industry trends

Requires basic knowledge of greenhouse gas emissions, which may be an entry barrier for complete beginners

Reviews summary

Practical introduction to climate mitigation for professionals

According to students, this course offers a solid foundation in climate change mitigation, particularly focusing on strategies for professionals. Learners frequently commend its clear explanations of complex topics like greenhouse gas emissions, the Paris Agreement, and energy systems. Many found the emphasis on practical applications, such as marginal abatement cost curves, highly valuable for their work. While largely positive, some express a desire for more in-depth case studies or interactive exercises, noting it serves as an excellent introduction but may be too basic for advanced learners seeking deeper dives.

Complex concepts are explained accessibly by the instructors.

"The lectures were clear and the content was well-structured."

"The instructors did a great job explaining complex topics simply."

"The explanations of the Paris Agreement and different GHGs were very clear."

Focuses on methods applicable to real-world organizational challenges.

"I particularly appreciated the focus on practical applications like marginal abatement cost curves, which I can immediately use in my consulting work."

"The emphasis on real-world scenarios and different sectors was very helpful. I feel much more confident discussing energy transition strategies now."

"I learned how to use practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."

Provides a strong base in climate change mitigation principles.

"Fantastic overview for anyone new to climate mitigation. The lectures were clear and the content was well-structured."

"Excellent course that provides a solid foundation. The instructors did a great job explaining complex topics simply."

"Thorough and engaging. This course has given me the tools to understand and communicate climate mitigation strategies effectively."

A desire for more hands-on activities and industry-specific examples.

"I wished there were more case studies or interactive exercises."

"Disappointed with the lack of practical examples. Felt too theoretical at times."

"I was hoping for more hands-on application relevant to my specific industry, but it remained very general."

Well-suited for beginners but may lack depth for advanced learners.

"A very good introductory course. The theory is well-explained, but I wished there were more case studies or interactive exercises."

"I think more advanced learners might find it a bit basic, but for an introduction, it's quite comprehensive."

"It's a decent starting point but don't expect deep dives. I had to do additional research on some topics."

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 Designing a Climate-Neutral World: An Introduction with these activities:

Review basic energy terms and concepts

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Review essential energy terminology and concepts to prepare for more in-depth discussions in the course.

Browse courses on Energy

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Create a list of key terms related to energy, such as energy, power, heat, and work.
Research and understand the definitions and interrelationships of these terms.
Review the basic principles of thermodynamics, including the laws of thermodynamics.
Explore different modes of heat transfer, such as conduction, convection, and radiation.

Read 'Climate Change Science and Policy' by Stephen H. Schneider and Terry L. Root

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of climate change science, impacts, and policy responses to enhance your knowledge for effective mitigation strategies.

View Encyclopedia of Climate and Weather, Second... on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting important concepts.
Summarize the key findings on climate change science, including causes, effects, and future projections.
Analyze the policy responses discussed in the book, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses.
Consider the implications of climate change for different sectors and regions.

Calculate greenhouse gas emissions using established methodologies

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Develop proficiency in calculating greenhouse gas emissions to accurately assess and mitigate your organization's environmental impact.

Browse courses on Greenhouse Gas Emissions

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Learn and apply the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) guidelines for greenhouse gas emission calculations.
Practice calculating emissions from different sources, such as energy consumption, industrial processes, and agriculture.
Use online tools or software to assist with emission calculations.

Four other activities

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Participate in a local energy efficiency or climate change mitigation initiative

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Apply your knowledge and skills in a real-world setting by volunteering for initiatives that promote energy efficiency and climate change mitigation in your community.

Browse courses on Energy Efficiency

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Research and identify local organizations working on energy efficiency or climate change mitigation.
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Participate in activities such as energy audits, public outreach campaigns, or advocacy efforts.

Develop a presentation on renewable energy technologies

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Enhance your understanding and communication skills by presenting on renewable energy technologies and their potential for climate change mitigation.

Browse courses on Renewable Energy

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Research different renewable energy technologies, including their principles, advantages, and challenges.
Develop a clear and engaging presentation that explains how these technologies can contribute to mitigation strategies.
Present your findings to your colleagues or a wider audience.

Attend a workshop on emerging mitigation technologies or policy frameworks

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Stay up-to-date on the latest developments by attending workshops that explore emerging mitigation technologies or policy frameworks for climate change.

Browse courses on Climate Change Mitigation

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Research and identify relevant workshops in your area or online.
Register and attend the workshop, taking notes and actively participating in discussions.
Follow up on any resources or connections made during the workshop.

Mentor junior colleagues or students in the field of climate change mitigation

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Reinforce your knowledge and contribute to the development of future professionals by mentoring others in the field of climate change mitigation.

Browse courses on Climate Change Mitigation

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Identify individuals who could benefit from your guidance and expertise.
Offer your mentorship and establish clear goals and expectations.
Provide support, guidance, and feedback on their mitigation projects or initiatives.

Career center

Learners who complete Designing a Climate-Neutral World: An Introduction will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Atmospheric Scientist

In this course, you will learn about the causes of climate change, the impacts of climate change, and the policies that can be used to mitigate climate change. This knowledge is essential for Atmospheric Scientists who are responsible for studying the atmosphere and developing climate models to help us better understand and predict climate change.

See salaries and explore the career path for Atmospheric Scientist

Climate Change Analyst

Climate Change Analysts are responsible for collecting and analyzing data on climate change, developing climate change models, and recommending policies to mitigate climate change. This course provides essential knowledge about the causes, impacts, and mitigation strategies of climate change that will help Climate Change Analysts succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Change Analyst

Climate Policy Analyst

Climate Policy Analysts are responsible for developing and analyzing climate change policies. This course provides essential knowledge about the causes, impacts, and mitigation strategies of climate change that will help Climate Policy Analysts succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Policy Analyst

Energy Analyst

Energy Analysts are responsible for analyzing energy markets, developing energy policies, and recommending energy technologies. This course provides essential knowledge about the energy sector and the role of energy in climate change mitigation that will help Energy Analysts succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Energy Analyst

Environmental Economist

Environmental Economists are responsible for analyzing the economic impacts of climate change and developing policies to mitigate climate change. This course provides essential knowledge about the economic aspects of climate change mitigation that will help Environmental Economists succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Economist

Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers are responsible for designing and implementing technologies to mitigate climate change. This course provides essential knowledge about the engineering aspects of climate change mitigation that will help Environmental Engineers succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists are responsible for studying the environment and developing strategies to mitigate climate change. This course provides essential knowledge about the scientific aspects of climate change mitigation that will help Environmental Scientists succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts are responsible for developing and analyzing policies to mitigate climate change. This course provides essential knowledge about the policy aspects of climate change mitigation that will help Policy Analysts succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Renewable Energy Engineer

Renewable Energy Engineers are responsible for designing and implementing renewable energy technologies to mitigate climate change. This course provides essential knowledge about the engineering aspects of renewable energy that will help Renewable Energy Engineers succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Renewable Energy Engineer

Sustainability Analyst

Sustainability Analysts are responsible for analyzing the sustainability of organizations and developing strategies to improve sustainability. This course provides essential knowledge about the principles of sustainability and the role of sustainability in climate change mitigation that will help Sustainability Analysts succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Analyst

Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability Consultants are responsible for advising organizations on how to improve their sustainability. This course provides essential knowledge about the principles of sustainability and the role of sustainability in climate change mitigation that will help Sustainability Consultants succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability Manager

Sustainability Managers are responsible for developing and implementing sustainability strategies for organizations. This course provides essential knowledge about the principles of sustainability and the role of sustainability in climate change mitigation that will help Sustainability Managers succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

Urban Planner

Urban Planners are responsible for planning and designing cities and towns. This course provides essential knowledge about the role of urban planning in climate change mitigation that will help Urban Planners succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Sustainability Educator

Sustainability Educators are responsible for teaching about sustainability and climate change. This course provides essential knowledge about the principles of sustainability and the role of sustainability in climate change mitigation that will help Sustainability Educators succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Educator

Science Writer

Science Writers are responsible for writing about science and climate change. This course provides essential knowledge about the causes, impacts, and mitigation strategies of climate change that will help Science Writers succeed in their roles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer