Sustainability

Wind turbines in a wheat field at sunset

ENVIR ST 402 LEC 001
8-week session | May 30–July 20
Tuesday-Thursday, 1–2:35 p.m.
3 credits

Online course

Instructor

Kathleen Benedetto
Sustainability Lecturer
kbenedetto@wisc.edu

Course Description

Sustainability is a multidisciplinary, far-reaching subject that encompasses relevant, applicable knowledge for most areas of study. This course is designed for students from any major who are interested in developing a well-rounded foundation in the discussion surrounding sustainability. It will cover:

  • An in-depth look at the development and history of the term
  • The social, environmental, and economic dimensions of sustainable development
  • How human culture, history, and ethics play a role in determining its implementation
  • The evolution of environmental policy in the U.S.
  • A systemic look at climate and global change
  • The biosphere and Earth’s physical resources
  • Environmental and resource economics and sustainable energy systems
  • Problem-solving, metrics, and tools for implementing sustainability

The course combines lectures, presentations, and weekly in-class discussions, with assignments based on applying what we’ve learned in class and three multiple choice exams. If interested in learning more about the course, please see the attached syllabus, or email the instructor for more information.

Fulfills Environmental Studies

Theme

UW Designations

Intermediate

Social Science