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Bending the Curve

Climate Change Solutions 1

Veerabhadran Ramanathan, PhD

This first course begins the learner’s journey of discovery into the climate crisis. We begin with an exploration of the science, including the human contribution to the crisis. We will develop a multi-faceted framework into which all solutions will be organized. Our first solution will focus on societal transformation and the leadership role that each of us can play in solving the climate crisis.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Lesson 1-1: Climate Change - Scientific basis, physical system impacts and future changes
Lesson 1-2: Social and Health Impacts - Climate Justice
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the scientific basis of climate change, which is standard in the field of climate science
Examines the social and health impacts of climate change, making it relevant to public health and social justice
Introduces a framework for solutions to the climate crisis, providing learners with a structured approach
Focuses on societal transformation as a key solution, addressing the role of individuals in addressing the crisis
Provides insights into the role of religions in addressing climate change, offering a unique perspective
Taught by Dr. Veerabhadran Ramanathan, a renowned expert in climate science, enhancing the course's credibility

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive climate solutions overview

According to learners, this course offers a highly valuable and comprehensive introduction to climate change, extending beyond the science to focus on societal transformation and actionable solutions. Many found it incredibly eye-opening and inspiring, particularly appreciating the emphasis on leadership and communication strategies. While providing a robust framework for understanding complex issues, some students noted it serves as an excellent starting point for beginners, rather than offering deep technical dives for those already familiar with climate science, who might find certain initial modules a bit general. Overall, it's considered an essential learning experience for anyone wishing to engage with climate action.
Knowledgeable and passionate teaching staff.
"The professors were engaging and the content on communication strategies was particularly useful for me."
"The instructors are very knowledgeable and passionate, which made the lectures captivating."
"Outstanding course! The instructors are fantastic and convey the material with great clarity."
Emphasizes changing attitudes, leadership, and communication.
"The content on communication strategies was particularly useful for me. I'm now much more confident in discussing these issues."
"The focus on individual and societal transformation gave me a clear path forward and inspired me."
"The focus on communication and leadership is unique and empowering. I felt truly inspired to take action after completing it."
"I enjoyed when it picked up when discussing leadership and communication, as this was new to me."
Ideal starting point for newcomers to climate action.
"A very good introductory course. It covers a lot of ground from science to social movements."
"Solid course. It's a good starting point for climate action."
"Decent overview. It's definitely for beginners or those who need a refresh."
"As an environmental professional, some of the science was review, but the societal transformation parts were new to me."
Provides a broad, empowering view on climate action.
"This course was incredibly eye-opening. The way it connected the scientific basis of climate change with the societal impacts and solutions was brilliant."
"The course provided a robust framework for understanding climate solutions. The focus on individual and societal transformation gave me a clear path forward."
"It covers a lot of ground from science to social movements... The 'Bending the Curve' framework is useful for organizing my thoughts."
"I particularly valued the emphasis on societal change and individual agency in addressing climate issues."
Offers broad awareness, less specific on technical solutions.
"Some parts felt a bit high-level, I would have appreciated more depth in specific solutions, but it's 'solutions 1'."
"While the topic is important, I found the course to be somewhat superficial. It doesn't go deep enough for someone looking for detailed solutions or policy specifics."
"It's more about awareness and mindset shift than practical application for me."
"I was hoping for more practical tools beyond just 'changing attitudes.' Don't expect deep dives into engineering solutions here."

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 Bending the Curve: Climate Change Solutions 1 with these activities:
Review Scientific Basics
Revisit the fundamentals of science and scientific investigation to provide a stronger foundation for understanding the complex concepts of climate change.
Show steps
  • Read introductory textbooks or articles on general science and physics.
  • Review scientific principles such as the laws of thermodynamics and the principles of conservation.
  • Practice applying the scientific method to real-world phenomena.
Participate in Climate Advocacy
Engage with organizations or initiatives working on climate change advocacy, gaining firsthand experience and contributing to collective action.
Show steps
  • Identify organizations or groups involved in climate advocacy.
  • Attend events, rallies, or campaigns.
  • Write letters to policymakers or participate in online petitions.
  • Raise awareness through social media or public speaking.
Design Climate Change Posters
Create visually appealing posters that distill key concepts and messages about climate change, fostering understanding and awareness.
Show steps
  • Research and gather data on climate change impacts, causes, and solutions.
  • Choose a design software or online tool to create the posters.
  • Design the posters using clear and concise language, visuals, and graphics.
  • Share the posters online or distribute them in physical spaces to raise awareness.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Analyze Climate Data
Engage in exercises or interactive simulations that allow for the analysis and interpretation of real-world climate data, developing analytical skills and a deeper understanding of climate dynamics.
Browse courses on Data Analysis
Show steps
  • Identify relevant climate datasets and sources.
  • Use data analysis tools or software to explore, visualize, and analyze the data.
  • Interpret trends, patterns, and relationships within the data.
  • Draw inferences and conclusions based on the data analysis.
Create a Climate Change Study Guide
Organize and synthesize key concepts, definitions, and resources into a comprehensive study guide, enhancing retention and understanding.
Show steps
  • Review lecture notes, textbooks, and online materials.
  • Summarize and organize the content into coherent sections.
  • Include diagrams, tables, and other visual aids for clarity.
  • Add references to additional resources for further exploration.
Develop a Climate Action Plan
Create a comprehensive plan outlining practical steps and strategies for mitigating and adapting to climate change at the local or community level.
Show steps
  • Conduct a needs assessment to identify vulnerabilities and opportunities.
  • Research and explore best practices and case studies.
  • Develop a detailed plan with specific goals, objectives, and actions.
  • Engage stakeholders and gather input from the community.
  • Present the plan and advocate for its implementation.
Facilitate Climate Change Discussions
Lead or participate in discussion groups or online forums on climate change, fostering knowledge sharing, critical thinking, and diverse perspectives.
Show steps
  • Identify or create a platform for discussion.
  • Prepare discussion topics and questions.
  • Moderate discussions, ensuring respectful and constructive dialogue.
  • Synthesize key points and takeaways.
Contribute to Climate Data Platforms
Engage with open-source projects that collect and share climate data, providing valuable contributions and gaining practical experience in data management and analysis.
Show steps
  • Identify open-source climate data platforms such as OpenAQ or Climate Engine.
  • Review documentation and guidelines for contributing.
  • Process and analyze data using provided tools and APIs.
  • Contribute code, documentation, or data to the platform.

Career center

Learners who complete Bending the Curve: Climate Change Solutions 1 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

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Course image
Effort
7 weeks of study, 3-6 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of California San Diego
Instructor
Veerabhadran Ramanathan, PhD
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the scientific basis of climate change, which is standard in the field of climate science
Examines the social and health impacts of climate change, making it relevant to public health and social justice
Introduces a framework for solutions to the climate crisis, providing learners with a structured approach
Focuses on societal transformation as a key solution, addressing the role of individuals in addressing the crisis
Provides insights into the role of religions in addressing climate change, offering a unique perspective
Taught by Dr. Veerabhadran Ramanathan, a renowned expert in climate science, enhancing the course's credibility
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