Sustainable Futures

Humanity is facing one of its greatest challenges as a result of the unsustainable use of the planet's natural and physical resources, primarily in the last 40 years. As such, sustainable development has become a key policy driver governing the future long-term development of human society, with the principles of sustainability pervading activities and decision making within governments, organisations and individuals at global, regional and local levels.

The concept of sustainability underpins much environmental, social and economic activity across a broad range of stakeholders, including the work of governments, business, industry, NGOs, charities and pressure groups. There are few commercial or business enterprises that can now afford to ignore the concept of sustainability.

By the end of this programme, students acquire an interdisciplinary understanding of the principles and practice of sustainability and the means by which these principles can be implemented. They also have a deeper awareness of sustainability and sustainable development, its interdisciplinary nature and its links to planning, the law and the physical, natural and social sciences. In addition, students develop an awareness of the values and criteria that underlie sustainability and sustainable development and are able to apply these to decision making.

During the period June to September, students undertake a research project in a specialist area of interest related to sustainability, often in collaboration with an external organisation.

Content

• Sustainable Development: Principles and Practice (15 credits)
• Climate Change and Sustainability (15 credits)
• Sustainable Energy Futures (15 credits)
• Environmental Legislation and Policy (15 credits)
• Measuring Sustainability (15 credits)
• Planning for Sustainability (15 credits)
• Business and Sustainability (15 credits)
• Research Design and Methods (15 credits)
• Research Project (60 credits)