ENP-33306 Environment and Development

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

YRM-20306 Research Methods in Environmental Science.

Contents:

This course focuses on the nature and causes of environmental problems in developing countries with specific attention given to the institutional and political structures governing ecological sustainability and economic development. Student will learn to identify and critically assess institutional and political strategies for managing environment and natural resources through four concepts: ecological modernization theory; political ecology; global value chain analysis and common property resource governance. These approaches are illustrated in the lectures through a series of case-studies from developing countries. Students are also given the opportunity to experience the practice of decision making over environment through a course long role-play or 'simulation'. Using these approaches attention is given to both the causes and solutions of environmental problems and the role of state and non state actors interacting at local, national and global scales. The course is given in English and caters for MSc students with an interest and background in both technical and social environmental sciences.

Learning outcomes:

At the end of the course students will be able to:
- demonstrate an understanding of the political, social, cultural and economic trade-offs between environment and development in developing countries;
- understand the tensions and complementarities between key theories and concepts;
- understand the practical implications of policy and power in negotiations over environment between local, national and international actors in developing countries.

Activities:

The course is comprised of 10 lectures, 5 tutorials and a simulation of environmental decision making.

Examination:

There is no exam for Environment and Development. Instead you will be assessed through your participation in the simulation and an individual research paper.
The final grade will be determined on the basis of:
- a weighted total of the simulation (30%);
- the weekly tutorial assignments (30%);
- and an individual research paper (40%).
All assessments will be marked out of 10. To pass the course you must get at least 5.5 on each of the tasks.
Please be aware that failure to hand in the final paper will result in a failing grade for the course and will result in a considerable word limit increase for the subsequent 're-exam' paper.

Literature:

A course outline can be obtained upon request from the course coordinator.