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Steve Kennedy,
Rob van Tulder,
Karen Maas,
Eva Rood,
and
Dirk Schoenmaker
Finance is widely seen as an obstacle to a better world. Principles of Sustainable Finance explains how the financial sector can be mobilized to counter this. Using finance as a means to achieve social goals we can divert the planet and its economy from its current path to a world that is sustainable for all.
Read more
Finance is widely seen as an obstacle to a better world. Principles of Sustainable Finance explains how the financial sector can be mobilized to counter this. Using finance as a means to achieve social goals we can divert the planet and its economy from its current path to a world that is sustainable for all.
Read more
Finance is widely seen as an obstacle to a better world. Principles of Sustainable Finance explains how the financial sector can be mobilized to counter this. Using finance as a means to achieve social goals we can divert the planet and its economy from its current path to a world that is sustainable for all.
Throughout this course, you will learn about the UN Sustainable Development Goals, how social and environmental factors should not be regarded as externalities, you will learn more about sustainable banking and asset management, about effective engagement, sustainable scenario analysis and long-term value creation.
At the end of this course you will understand how sustainable finance can be used as a tool to steer the sustainability transition.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/pol4wo/principles
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What's inside
Syllabus
The Sustainability Challenge
Dealing with Sustainability Challenges
The Purpose of Companies
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Syllabus
The Sustainability Challenge
Dealing with Sustainability Challenges
The Purpose of Companies
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Covers the Sustainable Development Goals, which are highly relevant in industries working to promote social and environmental responsibility
Focuses on topics such as sustainable banking and asset management, which are essential skills for those working in finance
Teaches practical tools for steering the sustainability transition, which can be beneficial for learners looking to make a meaningful impact in their field
Requires learners to come in with some understanding of finance and sustainability, which may present a barrier for complete beginners
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Reviews summary
Foundational principles of sustainable finance
According to learners, "Principles of Sustainable Finance" offers a highly relevant and comprehensive overview of how finance can drive sustainability. Students praise the knowledgeable instructors from Erasmus University Rotterdam and the course's ability to clearly link financial concepts with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and topics like climate risk. While it provides a strong theoretical foundation, some students noted a desire for more practical case studies and deeper application of strategies, suggesting it's an excellent starting point for beginners but potentially less detailed for advanced professionals seeking hands-on implementation.
Great starting point, but not for advanced learners seeking depth.
"It serves as a good general overview, but intermediate learners might find it lacking in actionable detail."
"For a beginner in sustainable finance, this is a great starting point, though it does assume some basic financial literacy."
"I expected more in-depth analysis on specific sustainable investment strategies rather than broad principles. It serves as a good general overview, but intermediate learners might find it lacking in actionable detail."
Instructors are highly expert and deliver content clearly.
"The instructors from Erasmus University Rotterdam are very knowledgeable, and the lectures were engaging."
"Absolutely brilliant! This course demystifies sustainable finance... The structure is logical."
"The instructors presented complex ideas very accessibly. I now have a much clearer understanding of this growing field."
Highly current topics important for today's finance.
"The content on UN Sustainable Development Goals and integrating social/environmental factors into finance was incredibly relevant to my work as an investment analyst."
"This course demystifies sustainable finance and shows how it can be a tool for positive change. The segment on climate risk and insurance was particularly insightful."
"As someone working in corporate social responsibility, this course provided an excellent bridge to understanding the financial side of sustainability. The lectures were informative."
Provides a solid conceptual framework for the field.
"This course was truly enlightening! The content on UN Sustainable Development Goals and integrating social/environmental factors into finance was incredibly relevant."
"A very solid introduction to sustainable finance. The overview of sustainable banking and asset management was comprehensive."
"Fantastic overview for anyone new to sustainable finance. The way it links finance to the UN SDGs is brilliant. Clear explanations."
More theoretical than practical, needing hands-on cases.
"While the theoretical foundation is strong, I would have appreciated more practical case studies or hands-on exercises to apply the concepts directly."
"I was somewhat disappointed. While the intentions are good, the course felt too theoretical and lacked the practical depth I was looking for."
"I am a finance professional, and I was hoping for more concrete examples of how to implement sustainable finance principles day-to-day. The quizzes were too basic. Could benefit from real-world scenarios."
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 Principles of Sustainable Finance with these
activities:
Create a curated resource list for sustainable finance topics
Show steps
Assist your learning by gathering and organizing valuable resources for further exploration
Browse courses on
Sustainable Finance
Show steps
-
Conduct online searches for resources on sustainable finance
-
Identify credible sources, such as academic papers, industry reports, and articles
-
Organize the resources into categories or topics
-
Create a document or online platform to share the curated list
-
Update and expand the list over time to stay current
Organize and Review Course Materials
Show steps
Organizing and reviewing course materials will help you stay organized and up-to-date with the course content.
Show steps
-
Gather all course materials, including notes, handouts, and assignments.
-
Create a filing system or digital folder for your course materials.
-
Review your course materials regularly to reinforce your learning.
Read 'The Economics of Green Cities' by John Rennie Short
Show steps
Expand your understanding of how sustainable finance relates to urban planning
View
Cities and Nature (Routledge Critical...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase or borrow a copy of the book
-
Read the introduction
-
Read 2-3 chapters per week
-
Take notes on the main points of each chapter
-
Participate in online discussions about the book's content
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Review the Principles of Environmental Economics
Show steps
Reviewing the principles of environmental economics will help you understand the economic aspects of sustainability and the financial implications of environmental decisions.
Browse courses on
Environmental Economics
Show steps
-
Read a textbook or online resources on environmental economics.
-
Solve practice problems or case studies related to environmental economics.
-
Discuss environmental economics concepts with a peer or mentor.
Learn about Green Bond Issuance and Investing
Show steps
Following tutorials on green bond issuance and investing will expand your knowledge of sustainable finance instruments and their role in funding sustainable projects.
Browse courses on
Green Bonds
Show steps
-
Watch online videos or webinars on green bonds.
-
Read articles and research papers on green bond markets.
-
Attend a workshop or training on綠色債券.
Complete the 'Sustainable Finance Fundamentals' track on EdX
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of the core concepts and practices in sustainable finance through interactive tutorials
Browse courses on
Sustainable Finance
Show steps
-
Sign up for the 'Sustainable Finance Fundamentals' track on EdX
-
Complete the introductory module to gain an overview of sustainable finance
-
Go through the individual lessons on key topics such as green bonds, impact investing, and climate risk management
-
Participate in quizzes and discussions to reinforce your learning
-
Complete the final assessment to earn a certificate of completion
Analyze Financial Statements for ESG Performance
Show steps
Practicing the analysis of financial statements for ESG performance will enhance your ability to assess and compare the sustainability of different companies.
Show steps
-
Gather financial statements from companies in various industries.
-
Identify and extract relevant ESG metrics from the financial statements.
-
Calculate and compare ESG performance indicators across companies.
Seek mentorship from industry experts in sustainable finance
Show steps
Connect with professionals and gain valuable insights and guidance in the field of sustainable finance
Browse courses on
Sustainable Finance
Show steps
-
Identify potential mentors through networking events, industry webinars, or online platforms
-
Prepare a concise introduction and explain your interest in sustainable finance
-
Reach out via email or LinkedIn, requesting mentorship and expressing your willingness to learn
-
Schedule a meeting to discuss your career goals and areas where you seek guidance
-
Regularly engage with your mentor, seek feedback, and demonstrate your commitment to learning
Solve case studies on sustainable finance challenges
Show steps
Test your knowledge and apply sustainable finance principles to real-world scenarios
Browse courses on
Sustainable Finance
Show steps
-
Find case studies related to sustainable finance challenges
-
Analyze the case study and identify the key issues
-
Develop potential solutions that align with sustainable finance principles
-
Evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of each solution
-
Present your findings and recommendations
Develop a Sustainability Plan for Your Organization
Show steps
Creating a sustainability plan will provide you with hands-on experience in applying the principles of sustainable finance to a real-world scenario.
Show steps
-
Conduct a sustainability assessment of your organization.
-
Identify and prioritize sustainability goals and objectives.
-
Develop strategies and action plans to achieve your sustainability goals.
-
Present your sustainability plan to stakeholders.
Develop a sustainable investment strategy for a portfolio
Show steps
Apply what you've learned to create a practical strategy for aligning investments with ESG principles
Browse courses on
Sustainable Finance
Show steps
-
Define investment goals and risk tolerance
-
Research and identify sustainable investment options
-
Allocate assets across different sustainable sectors and industries
-
Monitor and evaluate portfolio performance against ESG metrics
-
Make adjustments as needed to maintain alignment with sustainable principles
Write a white paper on emerging trends in sustainable finance
Show steps
Showcase your knowledge and research skills by exploring future developments and innovations in the field
Browse courses on
Sustainable Finance
Show steps
-
Conduct research on emerging trends and innovations in sustainable finance
-
Organize and structure the research into a logical outline
-
Draft the white paper, clearly presenting the key findings and insights
-
Proofread and edit the white paper for clarity, conciseness, and accuracy
-
Share the white paper with industry professionals and seek feedback
Create a curated resource list for sustainable finance topics
Show steps
Assist your learning by gathering and organizing valuable resources for further exploration
Browse courses on
Sustainable Finance
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Conduct online searches for resources on sustainable finance
- Identify credible sources, such as academic papers, industry reports, and articles
- Organize the resources into categories or topics
- Create a document or online platform to share the curated list
- Update and expand the list over time to stay current
Organize and Review Course Materials
Show steps
Organizing and reviewing course materials will help you stay organized and up-to-date with the course content.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather all course materials, including notes, handouts, and assignments.
- Create a filing system or digital folder for your course materials.
- Review your course materials regularly to reinforce your learning.
Read 'The Economics of Green Cities' by John Rennie Short
Show steps
Expand your understanding of how sustainable finance relates to urban planning
View
Cities and Nature (Routledge Critical...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase or borrow a copy of the book
- Read the introduction
- Read 2-3 chapters per week
- Take notes on the main points of each chapter
- Participate in online discussions about the book's content
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Review the Principles of Environmental Economics
Show steps
Reviewing the principles of environmental economics will help you understand the economic aspects of sustainability and the financial implications of environmental decisions.
Browse courses on
Environmental Economics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read a textbook or online resources on environmental economics.
- Solve practice problems or case studies related to environmental economics.
- Discuss environmental economics concepts with a peer or mentor.
Learn about Green Bond Issuance and Investing
Show steps
Following tutorials on green bond issuance and investing will expand your knowledge of sustainable finance instruments and their role in funding sustainable projects.
Browse courses on
Green Bonds
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Watch online videos or webinars on green bonds.
- Read articles and research papers on green bond markets.
- Attend a workshop or training on綠色債券.
Complete the 'Sustainable Finance Fundamentals' track on EdX
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of the core concepts and practices in sustainable finance through interactive tutorials
Browse courses on
Sustainable Finance
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Sign up for the 'Sustainable Finance Fundamentals' track on EdX
- Complete the introductory module to gain an overview of sustainable finance
- Go through the individual lessons on key topics such as green bonds, impact investing, and climate risk management
- Participate in quizzes and discussions to reinforce your learning
- Complete the final assessment to earn a certificate of completion
Analyze Financial Statements for ESG Performance
Show steps
Practicing the analysis of financial statements for ESG performance will enhance your ability to assess and compare the sustainability of different companies.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather financial statements from companies in various industries.
- Identify and extract relevant ESG metrics from the financial statements.
- Calculate and compare ESG performance indicators across companies.
Seek mentorship from industry experts in sustainable finance
Show steps
Connect with professionals and gain valuable insights and guidance in the field of sustainable finance
Browse courses on
Sustainable Finance
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify potential mentors through networking events, industry webinars, or online platforms
- Prepare a concise introduction and explain your interest in sustainable finance
- Reach out via email or LinkedIn, requesting mentorship and expressing your willingness to learn
- Schedule a meeting to discuss your career goals and areas where you seek guidance
- Regularly engage with your mentor, seek feedback, and demonstrate your commitment to learning
Solve case studies on sustainable finance challenges
Show steps
Test your knowledge and apply sustainable finance principles to real-world scenarios
Browse courses on
Sustainable Finance
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find case studies related to sustainable finance challenges
- Analyze the case study and identify the key issues
- Develop potential solutions that align with sustainable finance principles
- Evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of each solution
- Present your findings and recommendations
Develop a Sustainability Plan for Your Organization
Show steps
Creating a sustainability plan will provide you with hands-on experience in applying the principles of sustainable finance to a real-world scenario.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Conduct a sustainability assessment of your organization.
- Identify and prioritize sustainability goals and objectives.
- Develop strategies and action plans to achieve your sustainability goals.
- Present your sustainability plan to stakeholders.
Develop a sustainable investment strategy for a portfolio
Show steps
Apply what you've learned to create a practical strategy for aligning investments with ESG principles
Browse courses on
Sustainable Finance
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define investment goals and risk tolerance
- Research and identify sustainable investment options
- Allocate assets across different sustainable sectors and industries
- Monitor and evaluate portfolio performance against ESG metrics
- Make adjustments as needed to maintain alignment with sustainable principles
Write a white paper on emerging trends in sustainable finance
Show steps
Showcase your knowledge and research skills by exploring future developments and innovations in the field
Browse courses on
Sustainable Finance
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Conduct research on emerging trends and innovations in sustainable finance
- Organize and structure the research into a logical outline
- Draft the white paper, clearly presenting the key findings and insights
- Proofread and edit the white paper for clarity, conciseness, and accuracy
- Share the white paper with industry professionals and seek feedback
Career center
Learners who complete Principles of Sustainable Finance will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Sustainability Analyst
Sustainability Analyst
A Sustainability Analyst works to build a sustainable future by studying the effect an organization has, environmentally and otherwise, on its surroundings. They help measure an organization’s progress toward sustainability. This course may be useful as it goes over topics such as sustainable management and banking. The course also goes over the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
ESG Analyst
ESG Analyst
An ESG Analyst works by guiding investors to make good investments with respect to environmental, social, and corporate governance. This could entail analyzing the social impact of a company, their commitment to corporate governance, or their environmental footprint. A course in Sustainable Finance might provide you with a solid grounding in key ESG concepts.
Investment Banker
Investment Banker
As an Investment Banker, you advise organizations on a range of financial matters. This could include helping a company raise funds by issuing debt or equity, advising on a merger or acquisition, or providing general financial advice. A course in Sustainable Finance will provide you with a greater understanding of the environmental, social, and governance risks associated with different investments, which can be beneficial for advising clients.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Managers are responsible for directing efforts toward a more sustainable future. They develop and implement programs that reduce an organization's environmental impact while improving its social and economic performance. A course in Sustainable Finance will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of sustainable finance, which can be useful for developing and implementing sustainability programs.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts provide guidance to clients on investment decisions by studying and reviewing financial data. They help clients make informed decisions about where to invest their money. A course in Sustainable Finance may be useful as it will give you a better understanding of how environmental, social, and governance factors can affect a company's financial performance.
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility Managers work to create a positive impact on society while minimizing negative impacts. They create and implement programs within companies to ensure the company operates in an ethical and sustainable way. This course in Sustainable Finance may be useful as it provides insights into a range of topics related to social and environmental responsibility.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants provide advice to organizations that want to improve their sustainability performance. They help organizations identify and address their environmental, social, and economic impacts. A course in Sustainable Finance may be useful as it will give you a grounding in the principles and practices of sustainable finance.
Impact Investor
Impact Investor
Impact Investors make investments with the intention of generating social and environmental impact alongside a financial return. They look at investments which will provide a measurable positive impact on society. This course in Sustainable Finance would be especially useful, particularly as it goes over sustainable asset management and sustainable banking, both of which are key components of impact investing.
ESG Portfolio Manager
ESG Portfolio Manager
ESG Portfolio Managers build portfolios for clients that meet ESG objectives. This role requires an understanding of how to integrate ESG considerations into the investment process. The course dives into sustainable asset management and sustainable banking. This could be useful to an ESG Portfolio Manager.
Green Bond Analyst
Green Bond Analyst
Green Bond Analysts analyze and evaluate green bonds, which are fixed-income securities that are used to finance environmentally friendly projects. This role requires an understanding of the green bond market and how to evaluate the environmental impact of green bonds. This course in Sustainable Finance may be useful as it provides knowledge about sustainable banking and asset management.
Climate Risk Analyst
Climate Risk Analyst
Climate Risk Analysts assess the financial risks associated with climate change. This role requires an understanding of the physical and transitional risks of climate change and how to incorporate these risks into financial models. This course goes over the topic of climate risk and insurance, which may be of interest to a Climate Risk Analyst.
Renewable Energy Analyst
Renewable Energy Analyst
Renewable Energy Analysts evaluate the financial and technical feasibility of renewable energy projects. This role requires an understanding of the renewable energy industry and the factors that affect the financial performance of renewable energy projects. This course touches on the subject of sustainable business models, which could be of interest to someone seeking a career as a Renewable Energy Analyst.
Sustainability Accountant
Sustainability Accountant
Sustainability Accountants prepare and report on the sustainability performance of organizations. This role requires an understanding of accounting principles and how to measure and report on environmental, social, and economic performance. This course in Sustainable Finance may be useful as it covers the topic of sustainable banking.
Sustainable Fund Manager
Sustainable Fund Manager
Sustainable Fund Managers manage investment funds that invest in companies with strong ESG performance. This role requires a deep understanding of sustainability issues and how to integrate ESG criteria into investment decisions. This course in Sustainable Finance covers sustainable asset management, which could prove useful to a Sustainable Fund Manager.
ESG Data Analyst
ESG Data Analyst
ESG Data Analysts collect, analyze, and report on ESG data. This role requires an understanding of ESG reporting standards and how to use data to measure and track sustainability performance. This course in Sustainable Finance may be useful as it covers topics such as sustainable banking and asset management.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/pol4wo/principles
Reading list
We've selected nine 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
Principles of Sustainable Finance .
Save
Explores the potential systemic risks and opportunities associated with climate change, emphasizing the role of finance in mitigating and adapting to these challenges.
Save
Provides a comprehensive economic analysis of climate change, highlighting the urgent need for action to reduce emissions and adapt to its impacts.
Save
Offers perspectives on the role of sustainable finance in addressing systemic risks and building a more resilient financial system.
Provides a set of six principles for responsible investment that align with the course's focus on using finance to achieve social goals.
Provides a practical guide to sustainable investing, including strategies for integrating ESG factors into investment portfolios.
Explores the compatibility between Islamic finance principles and sustainable development goals, offering practical examples and case studies.
Provides a comprehensive overview of climate finance, including investment opportunities and policy frameworks.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the financing needs and opportunities for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, offering valuable insights for policymakers and finance professionals.
Save
Examines the role of financial institutions in supporting sustainable development, offering policy recommendations and case studies.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/pol4wo/principles
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Rating
4.7
Effort
Approx. 16 hours
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
Erasmus University Rotterdam
Instructors
Steve Kennedy
Rob van Tulder
Karen Maas
Eva Rood
Dirk Schoenmaker
Language
English
Transcripts
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