In today's world, we're facing some serious environmental challenges. That's why sustainability has become so important. It's all about creating a greener future for everyone. Luckily, we now have tons of free online sustainability courses that can teach us how to make a positive impact.
These courses are like a superpower - they educate and empower people to do their part in making the world more sustainable. In 2023, it's even more crucial for us to work together and address global issues. If you're interested, you can find loads of free online sustainability courses. They cover everything from sustainable living and climate action to the circular economy and green business practices. It's an amazing way to learn and contribute to a better future.
No matter if you're a student, a pro, or just someone who cares, these courses are there for you. So go ahead, take a course, and become an agent of change for a greener planet. Let's do this for the generations to come!
Introduction to Sustainability by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
This course offers an academic approach to sustainability, exploring how human societies can endure in the face of global change, ecosystem degradation, and resource limitations. The modules cover essential sustainability topics such as population, ecosystems, global change, energy, agriculture, water, environmental economics, policy, ethics, and cultural history. Understanding the principles of long-term welfare for all beings on Earth is at the core of this course, necessitating a cross-disciplinary approach, including insights from humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, planning, and management.
Course Link: Introduction to Sustainability
The Age of Sustainable Development by Columbia University
This course focuses on sustainable development – economic development that is socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable. It addresses global challenges like extreme poverty, environmental degradation, and political-economic injustice. With 15 modules that span 3-6 months, the course provides an in-depth understanding of sustainable energy, urban planning, and environmental protection. Students learn how to use a holistic approach to address complex global problems, paving the way for a sustainable future.
Course Link: The Age of Sustainable Development
The Sustainable Development Goals – A global, transdisciplinary vision for the future by the University of Copenhagen
This course provides an overview of how sustainability has been understood historically and introduces the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) launched by the UN in 2015. Learners gain insights into how progress towards the SDGs is measured and how these goals are relevant to global systems management. While all SDGs are crucial to sustainable development, particular emphasis is placed on SDG 13, Climate Action, considering the urgency of swift global implementation. The course offers up-to-date knowledge on human impacts on the Earth and explores how individuals and societies can contribute to a sustainable future.
Course Link: The Sustainable Development Goals
Circular Economy - Sustainable Materials Management by Lund University
This course focuses on the Circular Economy, where materials in everyday products are used efficiently, for longer, and in closed loops. The Circular Economy is the result of choices and strategies by suppliers, designers, businesses, policymakers, and consumers. Learners explore cases of managing materials for sustainability and develop skills and tools for analysing circular business models. The course encourages participants to come up with their ideas for a more sustainable future through active involvement in the transition to a Circular Economy.
Course Link: Circular Economy - Sustainable Materials Management
Driving Business Towards the Sustainable Development Goals by Erasmus University Rotterdam
This course, developed by the Rotterdam School of Management at Erasmus University, delves into the role of businesses in achieving the SDGs. Learners gain insights from business leaders and academics, understanding how businesses can contribute to a better future for both people and the planet without compromising profits. The course covers seven units, each taking one week to complete, with topics ranging from the importance of the SDGs to the interconnectedness and challenges behind solving them. Participants will develop a positive, critical, aware, and courageous attitude towards the SDGs, and assignments will involve quizzes, discussions, and challenges to implement in daily life.
Course Link: Driving Business towards the Sustainable Development Goals
