SUST912
Sustainable Economics for the Real World
Sustainability requires us to integrate economic considerations with environmental and social factors in the short and long term. Unfortunately, traditional financial and economic techniques are often poorly equipped to do this.
This course provides an overview of key concepts in sustainable economics and finance. You’ll discuss practical tools and techniques that will aid planning and decision making in your sustainability projects. You’ll also learn new financial and economic concepts and techniques that will help you build a business case for programs with sustainability goals.
Related program(s)
This course is available at the following time(s) and location(s):
| Section | Session(s) | Date/time | Campus | Instructor(s) | Cost | Registration* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SUST912-VA1137 | 2 | Friday–Saturday November 1–2, 2013 9 am–5:30 pm |
Van | See below | $650 | Register |
* This course is available as part of the Sustainable Community Development Certificate (core course) and on an individual basis.
Instructors/Guest Speakers
Alexis Morgan, director, Global Water Roundtable, World Wildlife Fund; associate, One Earth Initiative
Mark Pezarro, principal, Earthvoice Strategies
Noelani Dubeta, social researcher, Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives
Basil Stumborg, senior economist, BC Hydro
Coro Strandberg, principal, Strandberg Consulting
What will I learn?
In this course, you’ll do the following:
- Understand the assumptions of the prevailing economic system and learn theory and concepts for alternative economic approaches that are more aligned with the needs of people and the planet
- Explain economic and financial methods (triple-bottom-line accounting, ecological fiscal reform, genuine progress indicators, ecosystem services, and multiple criteria analysis) used to evaluate and support policy and projects with sustainability goals
- Apply structured decision-making techniques for meeting economic, social, and environmental goals
- Better understand how the private sector views sustainability and learn to use financial language that is relevant and persuasive
- Analyze case studies and examples that demonstrate concepts, tools, and techniques presented in the course from both urban and rural contexts
How will I learn?
- Lectures
- Case studies
- Small group discussions and exercises
- Group presentations
- Assignments
Who should take this course?
- Planners, architects, and landscape architects
- Engineers, developers, builders, and real-estate professionals
- Elected officials
- Transportation professionals
- Staff of non-profit organizations
- Biologists, agrologists, and other environmental professionals
- Local, provincial, and federal government administrators and project managers
- Lawyers, financiers, and community advocates
- Current and future leaders committed to creating positive change
How will I be evaluated?
Your grade will be based on take-home assignment.
Textbooks and learning materials
We will provide custom course materials.
Professional development credits
- AIBC 14 NCLU
- PIBC and BCSLA can self-report
Partners/Sponsors
SFU Centre for Sustainable Community Development