The ABC of sustainability

Overview

Class Central Tips

The sustainability agenda is currently key to companies, governments and citizens. It’s vital for people to have first-hand knowledge of the basic concepts in order to understand all issues related to sustainability as a vector of systemic change in the economy, society, companies and our lives. The course is an introduction to sustainability, regarded as a cross-cutting discipline in our society (in the public and private international spheres) that’s based on the most updated public information on economic, social and environmental issues. It outlines how sustainability is holistically applicable to everyday situations in the population, natural resource use and the global economy and in its interaction with the biosphere, as well as social factors such as a fair transition, equity, equality, diversity, human rights, education and health. By the end of this course you’ll have obtained a broad overview of the key challenges and potential solutions to achieve sustainable, socially just and environmentally possible development while respecting the planetary boundaries.

Syllabus

Definition, global context and international sustainability frameworks

This module introduces the definitions of sustainability within a global context of permanent change affecting the current and future generations. The international sustainability reference frameworks are also presented.

Actors of change, environment and climate change

Stakeholders are key to the sustainability of organizations. Throughout this module we’ll seek to understand the role of each of them and their expectations when it comes to creating economic, social and environmental value in the short, mid and long terms. We’ll also explore the concepts and definitions of the first sustainability pillar: “Environment”.

Inclusive economic growth, sustainability and sustainable finance

In this module we’ll learn some concepts related to the other two sustainability pillars: “Economic” and “Social”. The concept of inclusive and population growth within the framework of limited resources will be further explored. Human rights, gender equality and the relationship between the socio-economic SDGs and sustainable development will be covered in a cross-cutting manner.

Sustainability measurement and reporting

In this final module we’ll examine the tools available for measuring and reporting sustainability. We’ll also summarize the previous modules to pool some conclusions and a vision of the global sustainability trends for the forthcoming decades of the 21st century.