Global Politics of Sustainability module (PO31019)

The module will introduce the global politics of sustainability, which is one of the most urgent, yet problematic areas of global governance. You will develop a critical understanding of the ideas, actors, drivers and obstacles in the sustainability movement. Particular attention will be paid to the problems of integrating environmental concerns into other policy areas and the transition to a circular economy.

In this module, we will start with discussions around conceptualising sustainability, where we will look at origins, dimensions and ideas as well as theoretical approaches to sustainability. We will then discover the politics of sustainable development at national and international levels and the 'players' involved. Next, we engage with environmental regimes with a focus on controlling pollution and sharing natural resources, before studying policy instruments and implementation. Here we will look at how we can integrate the environment for sustainable development. The final three themes covered are; the transition to a circular economy, trade and the environment, and environment and security.

The format of the module, which permits a wide scope for individual research, will allow you to examine critical cases and problematic dimensions in particular sectors, regions or phases of policy-making. You will develop well-informed, critical thinking in understanding what is a fast-developing but complex, and often controversial area of global politics.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• learn more about the concept of sustainability
• engage with key theories in analysing sustainability challenges
• reflect upon the rivalry between environmental objectives and those of development
• explore the role of key actors, policy instruments and problems of implementation

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• demonstrate integrated knowledge and utilise key theoretical approaches in understanding the main areas of global politics of sustainability
• evaluate the polycentric governance dynamics, the competencies and the role of main actors, institutions, policy processes and policy instruments within the scope of the global politics of sustainability
• undertake in-depth transdisciplinary research and critical examination of transnational practices in sustainable development
• demonstrate your knowledge and produce oral and written analyses of a range of global challenges to sustainability

Assignments / assessment

There are three methods of assessment in PO31019:

• essay (2,500 words)- 50%
• student presentations- 10%
• written exam- 40%

Teaching methods / timetable

Teaching on the course consists of a combination of both weekly lectures and seminars.