Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Addressing Sustainability and Development from Coursera

We’re excited you’re here! This course, “Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Addressing Sustainability and Development,” is the first course in the Sustainability and Development MasterTrack® Certificate, but you can also take this course as a stand-alone learning opportunity.

Sustainability and development pose unprecedented challenges as human societies grow and seek to ensure future wellbeing and prosperity. In this course, we’ll focus on addressing the twin challenges of sustainability and development with actionable knowledge for innovating solutions to the world’s most pressing problems like climate change, poverty and inequality, and biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. Rather than sustainability being a qualifier for development (e.g. sustainable development), we conceptualize Sustainability and Development as co-equal fields of inquiry and action that seek to build bridges between the natural, social and applied sciences and the humanities. When sustainability and development are placed on an equal footing, it requires us to think more explicitly about the trade-offs, co-benefits and synergies between them, which we will be exploring in depth in each week.

Throughout the course, you will be introduced to the theoretical currents in Sustainability and Development, and will garner an in-depth understanding of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We will also consider the methods and skills necessary for designing innovative solutions to sustainability and development problems through the emerging field of Sustainability Science.

In this course, we will explore three of the most pressing challenges undergirding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including climate change, poverty and inequality, and ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss, with case studies to guide and challenge our thinking. In the final week of the course, we will discuss the trade-offs, co-benefits and synergies between these challenges, especially as they relate to designing innovative solutions for achieving our sustainability and development goals.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Understand and explain the world’s most pressing problems with a specific focus on poverty & inequality, ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss, and climate change.

2. Critically analyze the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their relationship to the world’s most pressing problems.

3. Use frameworks and evidence necessary to develop solutions.

4. Assess relevant solutions that would help realize the SDGs and at the same time solve the pressing problems.

5. Apply skills learned to implement solutions.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introductions to the Course

In this module you can expect to learn about the nuances between the terms 'sustainable development' and 'sustainability' AND 'development', as well as the history and scope of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which is a core topic in sustainable development

Introduces frameworks and evidence to develop solutions to sustainability and development challenges, which is highly relevant for professionals and students in the field

Teaches the application of skills to implement sustainability solutions, which helps students develop practical knowledge and skills

Examines sustainability and development as co-equal fields of inquiry and action, which provides a comprehensive and balanced perspective on the topic

Taught by Arun Agrawal, Maria Carmen Lemos, Bilal Butt, Pamela Jagger, who are recognized for their work in sustainability and development, which enhances the credibility and value of the course

Requires a strong foundational understanding of climate change, poverty and inequality, and biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation, which may make the course more suitable for intermediate learners and students who have prior knowledge in sustainable development

Reviews summary

Comprehensive sdg and sustainability foundation

According to students, this course offers a largely positive and academically rigorous introduction to global sustainability and development challenges. Learners consistently praise its ability to provide a strong foundational understanding of the SDGs and the distinct fields of sustainability and development. The lectures are clear, and the reading materials are insightful and well-curated. While some find the course highly theoretical, making it less suitable for those seeking immediate practical application, many appreciate its thought-provoking content, especially on trade-offs and synergies. It is widely recommended for anyone seeking a comprehensive conceptual framework.

Explores trade-offs and synergies between sustainability challenges.

"The module on trade-offs and synergies was particularly thought-provoking."

"The emphasis on trade-offs was unique and valuable."

"It delivers on its promise to go 'beyond' traditional SDG understanding, introducing the co-equal fields concept."

Offers well-selected and insightful supplementary reading materials.

"The readings were clear and the readings very insightful."

"The reading materials were also very well curated."

"The readings are robust."

Features knowledgeable instructors and relevant, digestible material.

"The instructors are clearly experts and very passionate."

"The content is academically rigorous yet digestible."

"Excellent theoretical grounding in sustainability science and the SDGs. The instructors are very knowledgeable."

Provides an in-depth understanding of SDGs and related concepts.

"This course provided a fantastic foundational understanding of the SDGs and the broader concepts of sustainability and development."

"Absolutely brilliant! As someone new to the specific academic distinctions between 'sustainable development' and 'sustainability and development', this course was invaluable."

"It sets a strong foundation for future learning or professional application."

Offers deep conceptual understanding, less focused on practical tools.

"While the content is excellent, some of the discussions felt a bit theoretical at times, and I would have liked more practical case studies or actionable insights."

"I enrolled hoping for practical strategies for achieving SDGs. While it covers the goals well, it's very theory-heavy."

"If you're looking for deep dives into specific solutions or highly practical applications, you might need to supplement this with other resources."

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 Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Addressing Sustainability and Development with these activities:

Calculate your carbon footprint with an online calculator

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Use an online tool to estimate your carbon emissions, providing a tangible understanding of the topic.

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Locate an online carbon footprint calculator.
Input your information into the calculator.
Review your results to understand your carbon impact.

Review "The End of Poverty: Economic Possibilities for Our Time"

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Read this book to gain insights into economic models and strategies to alleviate poverty and promote sustainability.

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Read the book from beginning to end.
Take notes on key concepts and ideas.
Highlight or underline important passages.

Review "Sustainability: A Comprehensive Guide to a Sustainable World"

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Read this book to establish a strong foundational understanding on key aspects of sustainability.

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Read the book from beginning to end.
Take notes on key concepts and ideas.
Highlight or underline important passages.

Five other activities

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Learn about the history of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

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Follow online tutorials or documentaries to gain a deeper understanding of the SDGs and their historical context.

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Find a reputable online tutorial or documentary.
Follow the tutorial or watch the documentary.
Take notes on key points.

Monitor your progress towards achieving a sustainability goal

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Select a specific sustainability goal and establish a plan to track your progress towards achieving it.

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Select a specific sustainability goal.
Set milestones for progress.
Identify metrics to track your progress.
Regularly track and evaluate your progress.

Design a sustainable community garden

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Apply concepts from the course by designing a plan to create a sustainable community garden that addresses local needs.

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Gather a team of interested individuals.
Identify a suitable location for the garden.
Research sustainable gardening practices.
Create a plan for the garden's design and layout.

Attend a sustainability conference or workshop

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Engage with experts and professionals in the field of sustainability, broadening your network and gaining insights.

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Research upcoming sustainability conferences or workshops.
Register for an event that aligns with your interests.
Actively participate in sessions and discussions.

Create a presentation on the environmental impacts of climate change

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Develop a presentation to communicate the environmental consequences of climate change and propose solutions.

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Research the environmental impacts of climate change.
Identify key data and examples to support your presentation.
Create visual aids to enhance your presentation.
Rehearse your presentation before delivering it.

Career center

Learners who complete Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Addressing Sustainability and Development will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability Consultants advise companies and organizations on how to operate in a more sustainable way. These consultants may work on projects related to climate change, energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be beneficial for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide sustainability efforts. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to sustainability challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists conduct research and develop solutions to environmental problems. They may work on projects related to air pollution, water pollution, soil contamination, and climate change. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be beneficial for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide environmental protection efforts. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Climate Change Analyst

Climate Change Analysts study the causes and effects of climate change. They may work on projects related to climate modeling, emissions reduction, and adaptation strategies. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be beneficial for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to climate change challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Change Analyst

Sustainability Manager

Sustainability Managers oversee sustainability programs for companies and organizations. They may work on projects related to climate change, energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be beneficial for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide sustainability efforts. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to sustainability challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental Policy Analysts develop and implement environmental policies for governments and organizations. They may work on projects related to air pollution, water pollution, soil contamination, and climate change. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be beneficial for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide environmental policy development and implementation. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Policy Analyst

Corporate Social Responsibility Manager

Corporate Social Responsibility Managers oversee corporate social responsibility programs for companies and organizations. They may work on projects related to environmental sustainability, social justice, and economic development. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be beneficial for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide corporate social responsibility efforts. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to sustainability challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Corporate Social Responsibility Manager

Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. They may work on projects related to air pollution, water pollution, soil contamination, and climate change. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be beneficial for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide environmental engineering projects. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

Urban Planner

Urban Planners design and implement plans for the development of cities and towns. They may work on projects related to land use, transportation, housing, and infrastructure. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be beneficial for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide urban planning and development. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to sustainability challenges in urban areas.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Social Worker

Social Workers provide support and services to people in need. They may work on projects related to poverty, homelessness, mental health, and addiction. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be may be useful for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide social work practice. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to social challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

Public Health Nurse

Public Health Nurses provide health care and education to communities. They may work on projects related to disease prevention, health promotion, and environmental health. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be may be useful for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide public health practice. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to public health challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Nurse

Teacher

Teachers educate students in a variety of subjects. They may work in elementary schools, secondary schools, or colleges and universities. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be may be useful for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide teaching and learning. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to sustainability challenges in the classroom.

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Journalist

Journalists write, edit, and publish news stories. They may work for newspapers, magazines, websites, or television and radio stations. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be may be useful for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide reporting on sustainability issues. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to sustainability challenges in the media.

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Lawyer

Lawyers advise clients on legal matters and represent them in court. They may work in a variety of fields, including environmental law, social justice law, and international law. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be may be useful for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide legal practice. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to sustainability challenges through the law.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts analyze business processes and develop solutions to improve efficiency. They may work in a variety of industries, including sustainability consulting, environmental engineering, and corporate social responsibility. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be helpful for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide business analysis and development. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to sustainability challenges in the business world.

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Project Manager

Project Managers plan and execute projects. They may work in a variety of industries, including sustainability consulting, environmental engineering, and corporate social responsibility. Taking this course on Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be helpful for someone in this role because it would provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the SDGs and how they can be used to guide project planning and management. Additionally, the course would provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop and implement innovative solutions to sustainability challenges in project management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager