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Olivier Jolliet
This course is an introductory and foundational course on sustainable consumption and health. In the first part of this course, we briefly review definitions of sustainability and the relationship between the three dimensions of sustainability and the UN-Environment Sustainable Environment Goals (SDGs), target and indicators. We then look at frameworks, indicators and footprint requirements to adequately measure sustainability, offering the opportunity to the participants to assess their own carbon and environmental footprint and make recommendation on how to reduce it. We then address the theme of sustainable consumption, looking at our main domains of consumption and at the key conditions to reach sustainable consumption and avoid rebounds effects that tend to reduce the benefits of increased product efficiency. We finally look at "what is good enough" for a given product or activity, in relationship with absolute sustainability and planetary boundaries.
Read more
This course is an introductory and foundational course on sustainable consumption and health. In the first part of this course, we briefly review definitions of sustainability and the relationship between the three dimensions of sustainability and the UN-Environment Sustainable Environment Goals (SDGs), target and indicators. We then look at frameworks, indicators and footprint requirements to adequately measure sustainability, offering the opportunity to the participants to assess their own carbon and environmental footprint and make recommendation on how to reduce it. We then address the theme of sustainable consumption, looking at our main domains of consumption and at the key conditions to reach sustainable consumption and avoid rebounds effects that tend to reduce the benefits of increased product efficiency. We finally look at "what is good enough" for a given product or activity, in relationship with absolute sustainability and planetary boundaries.
Read more
This course is an introductory and foundational course on sustainable consumption and health. In the first part of this course, we briefly review definitions of sustainability and the relationship between the three dimensions of sustainability and the UN-Environment Sustainable Environment Goals (SDGs), target and indicators. We then look at frameworks, indicators and footprint requirements to adequately measure sustainability, offering the opportunity to the participants to assess their own carbon and environmental footprint and make recommendation on how to reduce it. We then address the theme of sustainable consumption, looking at our main domains of consumption and at the key conditions to reach sustainable consumption and avoid rebounds effects that tend to reduce the benefits of increased product efficiency. We finally look at "what is good enough" for a given product or activity, in relationship with absolute sustainability and planetary boundaries.
In the second part focusing on health, we will first identify the main factors affecting health, define DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) as a key metric to measure health burden, and use the rich information made available by the Global Burden of Disease (GBD). We will then use the GBD visualization tool to quantify and compare the respective burdens associated with 70 risks factors and numerous disease causes, in every country of the world and even at the state level for the US. We finally analyze the health impact associated with global trade, evaluating the fraction of the health impacts due to fine particulate in Asia, that are induced by Western consumption.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/qg4iis/sustainable
What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Sustainable Consumption
This course is an introductory and foundational course on sustainable consumption and health. In the first part of this course, we briefly review definitions of sustainability and the relationship between the three dimensions of sustainability and the UN-Environment Sustainable Environment Goals (SDGs), target and indicators. We then look at frameworks, indicators and footprint requirements to adequately measure sustainability, offering the opportunity to the participants to assess their own carbon and environmental footprint and make recommendation on how to reduce it. We then address the theme of sustainable consumption, looking at our main domains of consumption and at the key conditions to reach sustainable consumption and avoid rebounds effects that tend to reduce the benefits of increased product efficiency. We finally look at "what is good enough" for a given product or activity, in relationship with absolute sustainability and planetary boundaries.
In the second part focusing on health, we will first identify the main factors affecting health, define DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) as a key metric to measure health burden, and use the rich information made available by the Global Burden of Disease (GBD). We will then use the GBD visualization tool to quantify and compare the respective burdens associated with 70 risks factors and numerous disease causes, in every country of the world and even at the state level for the US. We finally analyze the health impact associated with global trade, evaluating the fraction of the health impacts due to fine particulate in Asia, that are induced by Western consumption.
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to Sustainable Consumption
This course is an introductory and foundational course on sustainable consumption and health. In the first part of this course, we briefly review definitions of sustainability and the relationship between the three dimensions of sustainability and the UN-Environment Sustainable Environment Goals (SDGs), target and indicators. We then look at frameworks, indicators and footprint requirements to adequately measure sustainability, offering the opportunity to the participants to assess their own carbon and environmental footprint and make recommendation on how to reduce it. We then address the theme of sustainable consumption, looking at our main domains of consumption and at the key conditions to reach sustainable consumption and avoid rebounds effects that tend to reduce the benefits of increased product efficiency. We finally look at "what is good enough" for a given product or activity, in relationship with absolute sustainability and planetary boundaries.
In the second part focusing on health, we will first identify the main factors affecting health, define DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) as a key metric to measure health burden, and use the rich information made available by the Global Burden of Disease (GBD). We will then use the GBD visualization tool to quantify and compare the respective burdens associated with 70 risks factors and numerous disease causes, in every country of the world and even at the state level for the US. We finally analyze the health impact associated with global trade, evaluating the fraction of the health impacts due to fine particulate in Asia, that are induced by Western consumption.
Read more
Consumption Environmental Impacts vs Costs, and Absolute Sustainability
This section focuses looks at the key conditions for sustainable consumption providing an overview of the impacts generated by consumers and by the participants themselves. After establishing our personal carbon footprint, we first relate impacts and costs and identify the critical conditions towards sustainable consumption accounting for rebounds effects. We then discuss how far we have been able to decouple environmental from GDP in different regions of the world. We finally discuss what is good enough and what the product specific targets can be to meet sustainable consumption objectives, not to exceed planetary boundaries.
Main Risk Factors Affecting Health
We will now look at the dietary impacts of multiple foods to then analyze trade-offs and targeted change that can bring substantial health and environmental benefits with less than 10% caloric change. We finally address the health and sustainable performances of various diets, looking at disparities between gender, races and diets.
Then, equipped with the knowledge and skills you developed throughout our course, you will conclude with two final exercises. First, you will develop a 6-point action plan to feed our planet in a healthy and sustainable way as part of a peer-reviewed assignment. Next,
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Examines the interconnections between sustainability and health
Taught by Olivier Jolliet, an expert in environmental impact assessment
Develops an understanding of the Global Burden of Disease and its use in quantifying health impacts
Applicable to learners interested in sustainable consumption and health, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and consumers
Requires no prior knowledge or experience in sustainability or health
Save this course
Save Sustainable Consumption and Health to your list so you can find it easily later:
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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 Sustainable Consumption and Health with these
activities:
Review algebra skills
Show steps
Recall and practice basic algebra skills to strengthen your foundation for understanding sustainability concepts.
Browse courses on
Algebra
Show steps
-
Brush up on basic algebraic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
-
Practice solving simple algebraic equations
Attend sustainability conferences or workshops
Show steps
Connect with professionals in the field of sustainability to exchange ideas and learn about industry practices.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
-
Identify and attend relevant conferences or workshops on sustainable consumption, health, or related topics
-
Engage with speakers, attendees, and exhibitors to expand your knowledge and network
Read 'Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things'
Show steps
Gain insights into the concept of cradle-to-cradle design and its implications for sustainable consumption.
View
Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read and summarize key chapters on circular economy and sustainable design principles
-
Reflect on how these principles can be applied to real-world products and industries
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in online discussion forums
Show steps
Engage with peers to exchange perspectives, ask questions, and collectively deepen your understanding of the course content.
Show steps
-
Join online discussion forums related to sustainable consumption and health
-
Actively participate by posting thoughtful questions, sharing insights, and responding to others' contributions
Calculate carbon footprints
Show steps
Develop proficiency in calculating carbon footprints to understand the environmental impact of various activities.
Browse courses on
Carbon Footprint
Show steps
-
Use online calculators or tools to determine your personal carbon footprint
-
Practice estimating the carbon footprint of products, services, and events
Write a blog post on sustainable lifestyle
Show steps
Reflect on and articulate your understanding of sustainable consumption and its implications for personal choices.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
-
Choose a specific aspect of sustainable lifestyle, such as food, fashion, or transportation
-
Research and gather information from credible sources
-
Write a well-structured blog post presenting your insights and recommendations for promoting sustainable practices
Conduct a life cycle assessment of a product
Show steps
Apply the principles of life cycle assessment to evaluate the environmental impact of a product throughout its entire life cycle.
Browse courses on
Life Cycle Assessment
Show steps
-
Select a product and gather data on its materials, manufacturing, use, and disposal
-
Quantify the environmental impacts associated with each stage of the product's life cycle
-
Create a report summarizing the results and identifying opportunities for improvement
Review algebra skills
Show steps
Recall and practice basic algebra skills to strengthen your foundation for understanding sustainability concepts.
Browse courses on
Algebra
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Brush up on basic algebraic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
- Practice solving simple algebraic equations
Attend sustainability conferences or workshops
Show steps
Connect with professionals in the field of sustainability to exchange ideas and learn about industry practices.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and attend relevant conferences or workshops on sustainable consumption, health, or related topics
- Engage with speakers, attendees, and exhibitors to expand your knowledge and network
Read 'Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things'
Show steps
Gain insights into the concept of cradle-to-cradle design and its implications for sustainable consumption.
View
Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and summarize key chapters on circular economy and sustainable design principles
- Reflect on how these principles can be applied to real-world products and industries
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in online discussion forums
Show steps
Engage with peers to exchange perspectives, ask questions, and collectively deepen your understanding of the course content.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join online discussion forums related to sustainable consumption and health
- Actively participate by posting thoughtful questions, sharing insights, and responding to others' contributions
Calculate carbon footprints
Show steps
Develop proficiency in calculating carbon footprints to understand the environmental impact of various activities.
Browse courses on
Carbon Footprint
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Use online calculators or tools to determine your personal carbon footprint
- Practice estimating the carbon footprint of products, services, and events
Write a blog post on sustainable lifestyle
Show steps
Reflect on and articulate your understanding of sustainable consumption and its implications for personal choices.
Browse courses on
Sustainability
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific aspect of sustainable lifestyle, such as food, fashion, or transportation
- Research and gather information from credible sources
- Write a well-structured blog post presenting your insights and recommendations for promoting sustainable practices
Conduct a life cycle assessment of a product
Show steps
Apply the principles of life cycle assessment to evaluate the environmental impact of a product throughout its entire life cycle.
Browse courses on
Life Cycle Assessment
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a product and gather data on its materials, manufacturing, use, and disposal
- Quantify the environmental impacts associated with each stage of the product's life cycle
- Create a report summarizing the results and identifying opportunities for improvement
Career center
Learners who complete Sustainable Consumption and Health will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants provide advice on sustainable practices. Their work may be relevant to environmental sustainability and human health. This course focuses on strategies for sustainable consumption and health, making it a strong choice for aspiring Sustainability Consultants who wish to understand how to promote consumer behavior and company practices that have a positive impact on the environment and public health.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists conduct research on environmental issues. They may focus on pollution control or the effects of human activities on the environment. The focus of this course on sustainable consumption and its impact on the environment makes it a very strong choice for aspiring Environmental Scientists who wish to build a strong foundation in environmental issues and solutions.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate the causes of disease and other health problems in populations. This course has a strong focus on health and is a good choice for aspiring Epidemiologists who wish to strengthen their understanding of the impact of consumption and environmental factors on health.
Public Health Nutritionist
Public Health Nutritionist
Public Health Nutritionists promote healthy eating and nutrition. They may work in community settings or for government agencies. This course provides a foundation in sustainable consumption and health, making it a solid choice for aspiring Public Health Nutritionists, particularly those interested in the intersection of food systems, sustainability, and public health.
Sustainability Analyst
Sustainability Analyst
Sustainability Analysts evaluate the sustainability of organizations and products. They may also develop and implement sustainability strategies. This course provides a foundation in sustainable consumption and health, particularly as it relates to environmental impacts and health outcomes. This makes the course a strong choice for aspiring Sustainability Analysts who wish to develop expertise in sustainability.
Environmental Health Scientist
Environmental Health Scientist
Environmental Health Scientists assess and control environmental hazards. They may work in government, industry, or academia. This course provides a foundation in sustainable consumption and health, building a strong understanding of the effects of environmental factors on human health which is highly relevant to the work of Environmental Health Scientists.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. They may work in government, industry, or academia. This course provides a strong foundation in sustainable consumption and health, particularly on the environmental impacts and health risks associated with various consumption practices and products. It is a relevant choice for Environmental Engineers.
Global Health Researcher
Global Health Researcher
Global Health Researchers study health issues in developing countries. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or universities. This course has a global perspective on health and sustainability, providing Global Health Researchers with a solid foundation in the complex interactions between consumption, health, and social and environmental factors.
Health Educator
Health Educator
Health Educators promote healthy behaviors and lifestyles. They may work in schools, community centers, or hospitals. Understanding the principles of sustainable consumption is essential for Health Educators as they seek to develop effective programs to promote healthy behaviors that are sustainable for both individuals and the environment.
Sustainable Food Systems Analyst
Sustainable Food Systems Analyst
Sustainable Food Systems Analysts evaluate the sustainability of food systems. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or businesses. This course equips learners with the knowledge and skills to understand the environmental and health impacts of food systems, empowering them to contribute to the development of more sustainable food systems.
Climate Change Analyst
Climate Change Analyst
Climate Change Analysts study the causes and effects of climate change. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or businesses. This course may help Climate Change Analysts understand the relationship between consumption and climate change, providing them with valuable insights into the mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts analyze and evaluate health policies. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or insurance companies. This course may help Health Policy Analysts understand the impact of consumption on health and healthcare costs. It can also help them develop policies that promote sustainable consumption while improving public health.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Managers develop and implement sustainability strategies for organizations. They may work in any industry. This course may help Sustainability Managers understand the relationship between consumption and sustainability. It also provides them with practical tools and strategies to promote sustainable consumption within their organizations.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyers specialize in environmental law. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private law firms. This course may help Environmental Lawyers understand the legal implications of sustainable consumption and how to advocate for policies that promote sustainable consumption practices.
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility Managers develop and implement corporate social responsibility strategies for companies. They may work in any industry. This course may help Corporate Social Responsibility Managers understand the importance of sustainable consumption and develop strategies to reduce the environmental and health impacts of their company's products and operations.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/qg4iis/sustainable
Reading list
We've selected 12 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
Sustainable Consumption and Health.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of sustainable development, covering topics such as the history of the concept, the key principles of sustainable development, and the challenges to achieving sustainable development.
Provides a framework for action on sustainable diets, covering topics such as the definition of sustainable diets, the key principles of sustainable diets, and the challenges to achieving sustainable diets.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the global burden of disease, with a focus on the leading causes of death and disability.
Provides a thought-provoking ethical analysis of our food choices.
Examines the complex relationship between trade and health, covering topics such as the health impacts of globalization, the role of trade in promoting health equity, and the policy implications of these issues.
Provides a personal and thought-provoking journey into the world of food.
Save
Provides a practical and inspiring guide to creating a healthier and more sustainable food system.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with creating sustainable food systems.
Save
Provides a critical look at the modern food system and its impact on health and the environment.
Save
Provides a philosophical and legal argument for the abolition of animal use.
Provides a detailed analysis of the relationship between diet and health.
Provides an overview of the economics of sustainable consumption and production, covering topics such as environmental externalities, market failures, and policy instruments.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/qg4iis/sustainable
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Effort
3 weeks of study, 5 hours/week
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Michigan
Instructor
Olivier Jolliet
Language
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Healthy and Sustainable Foods and Products. It's comprised of four courses:
- Sustainable Consumption and Health (viewing)
- Health Impacts of Chemicals in Consumer Products
- Life Cycle Assessment
- Healthy and Sustainable Foods
Good to know
Examines the interconnections between sustainability and health
Taught by Olivier Jolliet, an expert in environmental impact assessment
Develops an understanding of the Global Burden of Disease and its use in quantifying health impacts
Applicable to learners interested in sustainable consumption and health, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and consumers
Requires no prior knowledge or experience in sustainability or health
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