Sustainable futures/ICSD/Introduction

Course name: The Inspiring Challenge of Sustainable Development (CSF101) In this course you'll learn how to apply an internationally recognised framework that integrates sustainability into a proven strategic planning process. It will enable you to define a vision of success and provide you with the tools you need to effectively and efficiently navigate your way there.

=What's it about= As the pressure builds and our global development continues to accelerate, our social, economic and environmental systems are falling further and further out of balance. Using a robust, yet simple, scientific foundation, this module will enable the learner to explore and understand how these fundamental systems are connected, and how they are being placed under increasing pressure. This context then provides the setting for an effective strategic methodology that can enable us to imagine and create a future where our society thrives.

What will I learn?
In this micro course you will:
 * Gain insights into what’s already possible by exploring examples of sustainable and symbiotic industrial design.
 * Learn how sustainable buildings are being built with the Living Building Challenge.
 * Introduce the concept of systems thinking, and why this approach so critical to tackling issues of sustainability in an effective and meaningful way.
 * Introduce the Natural Step’s Five Level Framework for an effective and strategic approach to sustainable development.
 * Learn how the ecological system works, and how humans are adversely affecting it.
 * Learn how the social system works.
 * Learn how humans have become the dominant shaping force on the planet.
 * Explore the definitions of sustainable development and sustainability.
 * Understand how the social system works, and why meeting human needs sits at the very core of sustainability.

What's involved?
There are 4 learning pathways each containing numerous resources and 5 activities, the last one being an assessment. The learning pathways are:
 * Sustainability is entirely possible
 * Understanding systems
 * From the Holocene to the Anthropocene
 * Defining sustainability and sustainable development

The micro-course can be completed in 40 hours, assessments included.