We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Jeffrey Sachs
The Age of Sustainable Development" gives students an understanding of the key challenges and pathways to sustainable development - that is, economic development that is also socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/merdb6/the
Two deals to help you save
Save money when you learn. Here are two deals and offers that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Valid until July 14
Coursera Plus Annual
Work toward what's next for your career with access to 10,000+ programs. Discover emerging skills and save.
Up to
40%
off
Get offer
Valid until August 30
Google AI App Builder
Learn how to use Gemini API and API Studio with a three-course series from Google DeepMind
Take
100%
off
Get offer
What's inside
Syllabus
Course Materials
Information about the general course structure and reading list can be found here.
What is Sustainable Development?
Professor Sachs provides an overview of the challenges the world faces, and introduces the topic of sustainable development.
Read more
Syllabus
Course Materials
Information about the general course structure and reading list can be found here.
What is Sustainable Development?
Professor Sachs provides an overview of the challenges the world faces, and introduces the topic of sustainable development.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Provides an in-depth exploration of sustainable development, covering its challenges and pathways
Taught by Jeffrey Sachs, an internationally recognized expert in sustainable development
Examines the history of economic development and inequality, providing valuable context for understanding sustainable development
Covers key topics such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, and education, equipping learners with a comprehensive understanding of sustainable development
Suitable for advanced learners with a strong foundation in economics, environmental studies, or related fields
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Comprehensive overview of sustainable development
According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and valuable introduction to sustainable development. Many highlight the exceptional expertise and engaging delivery of Professor Jeffrey Sachs as a major strength. Students appreciate the broad coverage of topics ranging from economic history and inequality to climate change, biodiversity, and the SDGs. While the course provides a strong foundational understanding, some learners note that the breadth means less depth in specific areas. The course materials, including lectures and readings, are generally considered high-quality and informative.
Workload is manageable but requires time.
"This course covers a lot of ground each week, so be prepared to dedicate consistent time to lectures and readings."
"It's not an easy course, but the effort required is commensurate with the learning gained."
"Staying on top of the readings is key; they add significant value beyond the lectures."
"The workload feels appropriate for the amount of content covered."
Broad scope means limited depth in areas.
"While comprehensive in scope, some sections felt a bit too brief and could benefit from more depth."
"Given the vastness of the topic, it necessarily sacrifices depth in favor of covering many areas."
"If you are looking for highly specialized knowledge in one area, this might serve more as an introduction than a deep dive."
"I would have liked slightly more technical detail on some environmental topics."
Readings and resources are high quality.
"The suggested readings were extensive and highly relevant, complementing the lectures perfectly."
"I found the course materials, especially the additional resources, to be incredibly useful for further study."
"The combination of video lectures and curated readings created a rich learning experience."
"The quizzes were helpful in reinforcing the concepts taught in the lectures."
Provides solid base for complex issues.
"The course lays a very strong foundation for understanding the interconnectedness of global sustainable development issues."
"I feel much better equipped to discuss and analyze sustainable development after taking this course."
"It clarifies complex concepts and historical context necessary for grasping current challenges."
"Provided me with the fundamental knowledge I needed to explore specific areas further."
Course covers wide range of crucial issues.
"This course provides an excellent, broad overview of the critical challenges facing sustainable development today."
"I appreciated the wide range of topics covered, offering a holistic view of the complex subject."
"It touches upon economics, environment, social issues, and policy – a truly interdisciplinary approach."
"The syllabus structure effectively guides you through diverse aspects of sustainability."
Professor Sachs is knowledgeable and engaging.
"Professor Sachs is a brilliant, inspirational lecturer who presents complex information in a very accessible manner."
"Professor Sachs' lectures were captivating and provided a global perspective on critical issues."
"The instructor's passion and deep knowledge of the subject matter made the learning experience truly rewarding."
"His insights into policy and global challenges are invaluable, drawing on extensive experience."
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 Age of Sustainable Development with these
activities:
Read 'The End of Poverty' by Jeffrey Sachs
Show steps
Jeffrey Sachs' book provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and solutions to global poverty.
View
A New Foreign Policy: Beyond American...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
-
Read through the book, taking notes as you go.
-
Summarize the key arguments and recommendations presented in the book.
Form a Sustainable Development Study Group
Show steps
Collaborating with peers will enhance your understanding of complex concepts and provide different perspectives on sustainable development.
Show steps
-
Reach out to other students in your class or program.
-
Schedule regular meetings to discuss course materials and assignments.
Review UN's Sustainable Develop Goals
Show steps
Getting familiar with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals early will help you understand the course's scope and core topics.
Browse courses on
Sustainable Development Goals
Show steps
-
Visit the UN's official website for the SDGs.
-
Read through the 17 goals and their targets.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Take an Online Course on Climate Change
Show steps
Taking an additional course on climate change will provide you with a deeper understanding of the science and policy surrounding this critical issue.
Browse courses on
Climate Change
Show steps
-
Search for online courses on climate change offered by reputable institutions.
-
Enroll in a course that fits your schedule and interests.
-
Complete the course, participating in discussions and completing assignments.
Attend a Workshop on Sustainable Development Goals
Show steps
Attending a workshop will provide you with insights from experts and allow you to network with professionals in the field of sustainable development.
Browse courses on
Sustainable Development Goals
Show steps
-
Search for workshops on Sustainable Development Goals in your area.
-
Register for a workshop that aligns with your interests.
-
Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions.
Calculate Ecological Footprint
Show steps
Practicing calculating ecological footprints will help you understand the concepts of sustainability and environmental impact.
Browse courses on
Ecological Footprint
Show steps
-
Go to the Global Footprint Network website.
-
Use their online calculator to calculate your ecological footprint.
-
Reflect on your results and identify areas where you can reduce your impact.
Volunteer with a Local Sustainability Organization
Show steps
Volunteering will allow you to apply your knowledge and contribute directly to sustainability efforts in your community.
Browse courses on
Sustainable Development
Show steps
-
Research local sustainability organizations.
-
Identify organizations that align with your interests.
-
Contact the organizations and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Develop a Sustainability Plan for a Local Business
Show steps
Creating a sustainability plan will allow you to apply the principles of sustainable development to a real-world scenario.
Show steps
-
Choose a local business that you are familiar with.
-
Research their current sustainability practices.
-
Identify areas where they can improve their sustainability.
-
Develop a plan outlining your recommendations.
-
Present your plan to their management team.
Contribute to an Open-Source Sustainability Project
Show steps
Contributing to open-source projects allows you to collaborate with others and apply your learning to real-world sustainability initiatives.
Browse courses on
Open Source
Show steps
-
Identify open-source projects related to sustainability.
-
Review their documentation and identify areas where you can contribute.
-
Fork the project and make your changes.
-
Submit a pull request with your contributions.
Read 'The End of Poverty' by Jeffrey Sachs
Show steps
Jeffrey Sachs' book provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and solutions to global poverty.
View
A New Foreign Policy: Beyond American...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
- Read through the book, taking notes as you go.
- Summarize the key arguments and recommendations presented in the book.
Form a Sustainable Development Study Group
Show steps
Collaborating with peers will enhance your understanding of complex concepts and provide different perspectives on sustainable development.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reach out to other students in your class or program.
- Schedule regular meetings to discuss course materials and assignments.
Review UN's Sustainable Develop Goals
Show steps
Getting familiar with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals early will help you understand the course's scope and core topics.
Browse courses on
Sustainable Development Goals
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit the UN's official website for the SDGs.
- Read through the 17 goals and their targets.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Take an Online Course on Climate Change
Show steps
Taking an additional course on climate change will provide you with a deeper understanding of the science and policy surrounding this critical issue.
Browse courses on
Climate Change
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for online courses on climate change offered by reputable institutions.
- Enroll in a course that fits your schedule and interests.
- Complete the course, participating in discussions and completing assignments.
Attend a Workshop on Sustainable Development Goals
Show steps
Attending a workshop will provide you with insights from experts and allow you to network with professionals in the field of sustainable development.
Browse courses on
Sustainable Development Goals
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for workshops on Sustainable Development Goals in your area.
- Register for a workshop that aligns with your interests.
- Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions.
Calculate Ecological Footprint
Show steps
Practicing calculating ecological footprints will help you understand the concepts of sustainability and environmental impact.
Browse courses on
Ecological Footprint
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go to the Global Footprint Network website.
- Use their online calculator to calculate your ecological footprint.
- Reflect on your results and identify areas where you can reduce your impact.
Volunteer with a Local Sustainability Organization
Show steps
Volunteering will allow you to apply your knowledge and contribute directly to sustainability efforts in your community.
Browse courses on
Sustainable Development
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research local sustainability organizations.
- Identify organizations that align with your interests.
- Contact the organizations and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Develop a Sustainability Plan for a Local Business
Show steps
Creating a sustainability plan will allow you to apply the principles of sustainable development to a real-world scenario.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a local business that you are familiar with.
- Research their current sustainability practices.
- Identify areas where they can improve their sustainability.
- Develop a plan outlining your recommendations.
- Present your plan to their management team.
Contribute to an Open-Source Sustainability Project
Show steps
Contributing to open-source projects allows you to collaborate with others and apply your learning to real-world sustainability initiatives.
Browse courses on
Open Source
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify open-source projects related to sustainability.
- Review their documentation and identify areas where you can contribute.
- Fork the project and make your changes.
- Submit a pull request with your contributions.
Career center
Learners who complete The Age of Sustainable Development will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Sustainable Food Systems Manager
Sustainable Food Systems Manager
Sustainable Food Systems Managers develop and implement sustainable food systems that provide healthy, affordable, and environmentally friendly food for all. The "Age of Sustainable Development" would be highly relevant to this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with developing sustainable food systems.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants advise businesses, governments, and nonprofits on how to operate in a sustainable way. They help organizations develop and implement sustainability strategies, measure their environmental and social impact, and report on their progress. The "Age of Sustainable Development" would be highly relevant to this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable development.
Sustainable Business Manager
Sustainable Business Manager
Sustainable Business Managers are responsible for developing and implementing sustainability strategies for businesses. They work to reduce the environmental and social impact of business operations, and to promote sustainable practices throughout the supply chain. The "Age of Sustainable Development" would be highly relevant to this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable development.
Sustainability Educator
Sustainability Educator
Sustainability Educators develop and deliver educational programs on sustainability to students, businesses, and the general public. The "Age of Sustainable Development" would be highly relevant to this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable development.
Climate Change Specialist
Climate Change Specialist
Climate Change Specialists research the causes and effects of climate change, and develop and implement strategies to mitigate and adapt to its impacts. The "Age of Sustainable Development" would be very helpful for this role, as it would provide a comprehensive overview of the science and policy of climate change.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists conduct research to understand the environment and the impact of human activities on it. They develop and implement solutions to environmental problems, such as pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss. The "Age of Sustainable Development" would be very helpful for this role, as it would provide a comprehensive overview of the environmental challenges facing the world today.
Water Resources Manager
Water Resources Manager
Water Resources Managers develop and implement strategies to manage water resources in a sustainable way. They work to protect water quality, quantity, and distribution, and to ensure that water resources are available for future generations. The "Age of Sustainable Development" would be helpful for this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with managing water resources sustainably.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts develop and evaluate public policies. They research issues, analyze data, and make recommendations to policymakers. The "Age of Sustainable Development" would be helpful for this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the policy challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable development.
Renewable Energy Project Developer
Renewable Energy Project Developer
Renewable Energy Project Developers develop and implement projects to generate renewable energy from sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal. The "Age of Sustainable Development" would be helpful for this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with developing renewable energy projects.
Environmental Economist
Environmental Economist
Environmental Economists apply economic principles to environmental issues. They research the costs and benefits of environmental policies, and develop tools to help policymakers make informed decisions. The "Age of Sustainable Development" would be helpful for this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the economic challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable development.
Sustainable Urban Planner
Sustainable Urban Planner
Sustainable Urban Planners develop and implement plans for sustainable cities. They work to create cities that are livable, equitable, and environmentally friendly. The "Age of Sustainable Development" would be helpful for this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with developing sustainable cities.
International Development Specialist
International Development Specialist
International Development Specialists work to improve the lives of people in developing countries. They design and implement programs in areas such as education, health care, and economic development. The "Age of Sustainable Development" would be helpful for this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable development in developing countries.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations. They work to develop and implement programs, raise funds, and manage staff. The "Age of Sustainable Development" may be helpful for this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with managing a nonprofit organization.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyers represent clients in environmental disputes and advise them on environmental law. The "Age of Sustainable Development" may be helpful for this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the legal challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable development.
Social Entrepreneur
Social Entrepreneur
Social Entrepreneurs develop and implement innovative solutions to social problems. The "Age of Sustainable Development" may be helpful for this role, as it would provide a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with developing sustainable solutions to social problems.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/merdb6/the
Reading list
We've selected 36 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 Age of Sustainable Development.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities of sustainable development. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about this critical topic.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities facing the world in achieving sustainable development. It is particularly useful for understanding the economic dimensions of sustainable development and the role of international cooperation in addressing global poverty.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), their history, and their implications for global development. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the SDGs and their role in shaping the future of our planet.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities in achieving sustainable development.
Provides a detailed overview of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how to implement them. It valuable resource for understanding the goals and their implications for sustainable development.
Save
Provides a detailed analysis of the causes of poverty and offers a comprehensive plan for ending it. It must-read for anyone interested in understanding the challenges of sustainable development.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the sustainable city. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing cities and the policies that can be used to create more sustainable and livable cities.
This official document from the United Nations provides a detailed overview of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It is particularly useful for understanding the specific targets and indicators that have been set for achieving sustainable development.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of environmental science and its importance for sustainable development. It is particularly useful for understanding the scientific principles that underlie environmental issues and the challenges of achieving sustainability.
Save
Provides a rigorous economic analysis of the challenges of sustainable development. It valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the economic implications of environmental and social sustainability.
Provides a critical overview of the concept of sustainable development. It valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the different perspectives on this complex topic.
Save
This report provides a comprehensive assessment of the economics of climate change. It valuable resource for understanding the costs and benefits of different climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Explores the potential implications of new technologies on human nature. It thought-provoking read that will challenge your assumptions about the future of humanity.
Provides a comprehensive overview of human development in the Anthropocene. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing human development and the policies that can be used to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the state of the global environment. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing the global environment and the policies that can be used to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the World Bank's work in 2020. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing the world and the policies that can be used to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
Save
Provides a sobering assessment of the limits to economic growth and the need for sustainable development. It valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the environmental challenges facing our planet.
Save
Provides a critical analysis of the concept of the green economy. It valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the political economy of sustainable development.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the global environmental politics. It valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the political dimensions of environmental issues.
Save
Provides a detailed analysis of the environmental limits to economic growth. It classic work that has been influential in the development of sustainable development thinking.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the sixth extinction. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing the world and the policies that can be used to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of collapse. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing the world and the policies that can be used to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It valuable resource for understanding the goals and targets of the SDGs, and for tracking progress towards their achievement.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the population bomb. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing the world and the policies that can be used to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
Save
Provides a critical analysis of the failure of democratic politics to address the climate change challenge. It valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the political dimensions of climate change.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the state of human development around the world. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing developing countries.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of braiding sweetgrass. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing the world and the policies that can be used to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the uninhabitable earth. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing the world and the policies that can be used to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the World Bank's activities in the past year. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing developing countries.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the overstory. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing the world and the policies that can be used to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
Save
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of sustainable development. It valuable resource for students, researchers, and practitioners.
This report provides a comprehensive assessment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the scientific basis for the SDGs.
Save
Explores the role that businesses can play in achieving sustainable development.
This report provides an annual update on the global carbon budget. It valuable resource for understanding the challenges of climate change mitigation.
Provides a practical guide to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It valuable resource for anyone interested in implementing the SDGs in their own work.
This report provides a comprehensive assessment of the science of climate change. It is the most authoritative source of information on climate change, and is essential reading for anyone interested in the topic.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/merdb6/the
Share
Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Rating
4.7
Effort
29 hours to complete
Via
Coursera
Institution
Columbia University
Instructor
Jeffrey Sachs
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
magyar nyelv
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
қазақша
اُردُو,
فارسی
বাংলা
tiếng Việt
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser