Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2023 - REM 321 D100

Ecological Economics (4)

Class Number: 5350

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 6 – Dec 5, 2023: Mon, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Oct 10, 2023: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 8, 2023
    Fri, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    45 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces students to the concepts and methods of ecological economics. Provides students with grounding in the core principles of conventional economics applied to the environment but then extends this to the integration of economics and ecology to create a new ecological-economic understanding of environmental change and sustainability. Students with credit for ENV 321 cannot take REM 321 for further credit. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

REM-321 will introduce you to the concepts and methods of ecological economics. We will learn, critique, and apply several tools from ecological economics, including cost-benefit analysis, valuation of ecosystem services, measures of economic growth versus development, and definitions of “sustainability.” We will draw from real-world examples of environmental problems, including climate change, fisheries management, and biodiversity loss.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Once you complete this course, you will be able to:

  1. Define and explain the major modern environmental problems.
  2. Critically evaluate the strengths and drawbacks of economic concepts of the environment.
  3. Apply course concepts and tools to real-world environmental problems (e.g. as portrayed by media coverage).
  4. Challenge your own assumptions regarding environmental and economic issues, and understand/develop your personal values.
  5. Develop collaborative, interdisciplinary learning and thinking skills.
  6. Demonstrate the level of respect and organization expected in the workforce.

Grading

  • Participation 15%
  • Assignments 35%
  • Exams 50%

NOTES:

  • For all tutorials, you will need to attend, participate, and take notes.
  • Late assignments (without excuses) are penalized 1 grade step per day (e.g. A+ becomes A).
  • Following SFU’s protocol for Fall 2023: If you require a minor absence (due to health/illness), this year you will need to complete a self-declaration form (rather than attain a medical note), which you submit to your TA. Should students need to be absent for a longer period, they would need to obtain additional documentation, including medical documentation.

 

Materials

REQUIRED READING:


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the semester are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.