In 2015, the UN launched the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Adopted by 193 member states, the goals represent an important international step in setting humanity on a trajectory towards sustainable development. Within this course, you will get a historical overview of how sustainability has been understood, as well as a thorough introduction to the SDGs – what they are, how progress can be measured, and how the SDGs are relevant for the management of the global systems supporting humanity. The course will examine how various societal actors are responding to and implementing the SDGs.
Offered By
The Sustainable Development Goals – A global, transdisciplinary vision for the future
University of CopenhagenAbout this Course
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Shareable Certificate
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Beginner Level
Approx. 10 hours to complete
English
Subtitles: Arabic, French, Portuguese (European), Italian, Portuguese (Brazilian), Vietnamese, German, Russian, English, Spanish
Flexible deadlines
Reset deadlines in accordance to your schedule.
Shareable Certificate
Earn a Certificate upon completion
100% online
Start instantly and learn at your own schedule.
Beginner Level
Approx. 10 hours to complete
English
Subtitles: Arabic, French, Portuguese (European), Italian, Portuguese (Brazilian), Vietnamese, German, Russian, English, Spanish
Offered by
University of Copenhagen
The University of Copenhagen is the oldest University in Denmark - founded in 1479, and with over 38,000 students and more than 9,000 employees. The purpose of the University is to conduct research and provide education to the highest academic level. Based in Denmark's capital city it is one of the top research institutions in Europe.
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
3 hours to complete
Sustainable Development as a Global Goal
In this first module, you will be introduced to the concept of sustainability, its roots, and history of development. The framework of the SDGs is outlined in more detail, and we will discuss what sets them apart from previous international agreements, how we can measure progress and how the goals are interconnected. We will touch upon food systems, as an example of how the SDGs are relevant for - and can be implemented in - global systems through international cooperation.
3 hours to complete
3 videos (Total 40 min), 3 readings, 1 quiz
3 hours to complete
Managing human impacts on the natural world
In this second module, we will have a more detailed look at the scientific evidence that human activities are influencing the Earth at the planetary level. You will be introduced to the concepts of Anthropocene and Planetary Boundaries. The biosphere (all living organisms or "biodiversity") is arguably just as - or more - important than climate for establishing the environmental conditions we enjoy on Earth, but receives much less attention. This module, therefore, will focus on monitoring and managing human impacts on climate and biodiversity as well as the potential consequences of failing to meet the goals of the SDGs relating to climate and biodiversity.
3 hours to complete
3 videos (Total 48 min), 2 readings, 1 quiz
3 hours to complete
Social sustainability and the way forward
Where the last module focused on the impact of humanity's activities on the bio-physical components of the Earth system, this final section first focuses on the condition of humans, themselves, and the SDGs focusing on the improvement of that condition. You will be introduced to the concept of Doughnut Economics, which builds on the Planetary Boundaries framework. Finally, this module examines current status for implementation and provides examples of how different actors are engaging in global efforts to achieve the goals.
3 hours to complete
3 videos (Total 60 min), 4 readings, 1 quiz
Reviews
- 5 stars80.83%
- 4 stars16.56%
- 3 stars2.26%
- 2 stars0.15%
- 1 star0.18%
TOP REVIEWS FROM THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS – A GLOBAL, TRANSDISCIPLINARY VISION FOR THE FUTURE
by JJJul 15, 2020
I loved it, ver interesting and relevant information to the situation we face nowadays! Everyone should take this course to understand that we must evolve as a society to have a better world for all.
by AJul 21, 2022
The world is diverse. As a mother and a student, learning more about the SDGs is helping to build more of my skills to share with youths in creating awareness, to achieve a better living.
by LCAug 7, 2018
Fantastic course! I love the design of the course, especially the engagement with guests with various expertise, which provides a broad picture of SDGs as they are interdisciplinary by nature.
by JKMay 3, 2020
A carefully designed course with very qualified faculty and guest lecturers who provided great insights. T Relevant course materials and the insights provided are great. I feel equipped to ta
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