When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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There are 3 modules in this course
This course explores foundational sustainability concepts, including the economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Learners will explore key frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, and examine the impact of climate change on business operations. The course also covers carbon management, circular economy principles, and systems thinking to integrate sustainable practices into business strategies.
This module provides a comprehensive introduction to the foundational concepts, frameworks, and historical milestones that have shaped modern sustainability practices. Through a chronological exploration of sustainability's evolution, students will gain insights into the shift from environmental awareness to corporate responsibility, understand the essential pillars of sustainability, and learn how frameworks like the Triple Bottom Line have influenced business strategies. By the end of this module, learners will be equipped to contextualize sustainability in a corporate setting, recognize its multi-dimensional nature, and apply core concepts in their own organizations.
What's included
6 videos1 reading1 assignment
Show info about module content
6 videos•Total 61 minutes
Specialization Overview: Sustainability for Business•9 minutes
Course Overview: Introduction to Corporate Sustainability•5 minutes
Origins & Evolution of Sustainability•10 minutes
From Environmental Impact to Corporate Sustainability•16 minutes
Pillars of Sustainability•12 minutes
Triple Bottom Line•8 minutes
1 reading•Total 1 minute
Course Updates and Accessibility Support•1 minute
1 assignment•Total 30 minutes
Module 1: Foundations of Sustainability Quiz•30 minutes
Climate Change and Corporate Responsibility
Module 2•2 hours to complete
Module details
This module examines the connection between climate change and corporate responsibility, equipping learners with a foundational understanding of climate science, the impacts of climate change on business, and strategic responses for sustainability. Learners will explore how companies manage risks, address opportunities, and commit to long-term goals like carbon neutrality and net zero.
What's included
5 videos1 assignment
Show info about module content
5 videos•Total 71 minutes
Understanding Climate Change•20 minutes
Urgency of Sustainability•5 minutes
Impact on Business Operations•14 minutes
Corporate Responses to Climate Change•11 minutes
Carbon Neutrality and Net Zero•22 minutes
1 assignment•Total 30 minutes
Module 2: Climate Change and Corporate Responsibility Quiz•30 minutes
Sustainability Frameworks & Strategic Approaches
Module 3•3 hours to complete
Module details
This module introduces key frameworks and strategies that guide corporate sustainability efforts, providing learners with the tools to assess and implement impactful sustainability practices. By examining global standards, understanding frameworks like ESG and CSR, and exploring circular economy principles, learners will develop a comprehensive approach to integrating sustainability into their organizations. This module equips learners to make strategic, informed decisions that align with both regulatory expectations and organizational goals.
CU Boulder is a dynamic community of scholars and learners on one of the most spectacular college campuses in the country. As one of 34 U.S. public institutions in the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), we have a proud tradition of academic excellence, with five Nobel laureates and more than 50 members of prestigious academic academies.
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
What will I get if I subscribe to this Specialization?
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.