Professional development

This unit presents a new set of processes that underpin the movement toward sustainability. Ontologies and epistemologies likely to generate sustainability praxis are examined. Pathways are explored that enable the development and implementation of sustainability, such as: transition management, reflexive governance, cultural value analysis, sustainability policy, sustainability mapping and sustainability planning. Students will develop both specific skills and understanding of the theories behind these skills.

Contact: m.zingonidebaro@curtin.edu.au

This unit provides the rationale for why a business, agency or non- government organisation needs to address sustainability at all levels of its organisation and how the innovative ones are exploring what this can mean. It establishes a process for students to engage in taking their own leadership aspirations to a new level and to develop their own potential as leaders in sustainability. Students will be given the opportunity to engage with a range of respected sustainability leaders from business, government and non- government organisations who will share their wealth of experience through reflective discussions about their personal sustainability journeys, as well as exposing the students to contemporary information on the topic.

Contact: p.newman@curtin.edu.au

This unit introduces students to the basic science of climate change and discusses the importance of both mitigation and adaptation. Various approaches, policies and mechanisms currently used to target emissions at the global level are examined with a focus on Australia’s contribution. The economy is discussed (defined in terms of the Front-End and the End-User) with each examined for their ability to reduce emissions. An analysis of Front-End policies including carbon taxes and emission trading schemes is provided, as well as the examination of End-User approach which includes policies and initiatives such as rebates for energy efficiency, small-scale renewable energy and building regulations. Climate change governance is explored through a workshop, which demonstrates the complexity of the international negotiations process. With a focus on the Front-End of the economy, this unit provides practical information on latest policy developments with much of the content delivered by industry professionals working in the field.

Contact: p.newman@curtin.edu.au

This unit explores the development and implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals from a range of theoretical, policy and practical perspectives. It contextualises their adoption within an international, domestic and global context. Students will analyse and reflect on contemporary issues and discourse of sustainable development, international aid and technological progress, including issues of poverty, food security, healthy lives, quality education, gender equity, water availability, sustainable energy, productive employment, resilient infrastructure, reduction of inequality within and between countries, better human settlements, sustainable production and consumption, climate change action, sustainable use of oceans and terrestrial ecosystems, peaceful and inclusive societies and partnerships for sustainable development.

Contact: s.samani@curtin.edu.au