Please note! Course description is confirmed for two academic years, which means that in general, e.g. Learning outcomes, assessment methods and key content stays unchanged. However, via course syllabus, it is possible to specify or change the course execution in each realization of the course, such as how the contact sessions are organized, assessment methods weighted or materials used.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

After the completion of the course the student is able to

  • define the concept of sustainability and understand the scientific, political, regulative and societal frameworks relating to its implementation [knowledge]
  • describe the principles of different types of methods and measures that can be used to assess sustainability and recognize their differences and limitations [knowledge]
  • apply selected method(s) used in sustainability assessment [skill]
  • promote sustainable development in the society trough his/her own field [identity]
  • recognize his/her own strengths and weaknesses in group working [identity]

Credits: 5

Schedule: 28.10.2020 - 11.12.2020

Teacher in charge (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022): Meeri Karvinen

Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation): Meeri Karvinen

Contact information for the course (applies in this implementation):

CEFR level (applies in this implementation):

Language of instruction and studies (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022):

Teaching language: English

Languages of study attainment: English

CONTENT, ASSESSMENT AND WORKLOAD

Content
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    • Principles, definitions & dimensions of sustainability; sustainability science and policies; strategies, regulations and voluntary actions
    • Means of sustainability implementation in the field of environmental engineering; sustainability measures, including indicators, footprints, indices, eco-labels, certificates; circular economy; life cycle thinking: environmental impact assessment
    • Sustainability assessment methods with focus on LCA related techniques; data needs of sustainability assessment and LCA
    • Implementing sustainability in the context of corporate responsibility
    • Guest lecturers and cases

  • Applies in this implementation:

    In 2020, the course concentrates on

    • creating structured picture of sustainability and gaining confidence in evaluating it
    • offering an overview of how sustainability can be measured
    • practicing LCA (rebound)
    • getting familiar with environmental impact assessment
    • learning about corporate responsibility & SDGs

Assessment Methods and Criteria
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Course grade is based on scoring of different course activities: group and individual assignments, seminar and attendance in contact teaching/submitting compensatory tasks.

Workload
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Contact sessions 30-40 h, including tutored group work, interactive lectures, seminar and potentially excursion. Independent studying: group assignments and individual tasks. Totally 135 h

DETAILS

Study Material
  • Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:

    Course material will be announced in the beginning of the course.

SDG: Sustainable Development Goals

    11 Sustainable Cities and Communities

    12 Responsible Production and Consumption

    13 Climate Action

    14 Life Below Water

    15 Life on Land