What is the relationship between development and environment? Can we achieve sustainable development while staying within environmental limits of the planet? You will be introduced to key concepts in understanding the dynamic and complex relationship between socioeconomic development and the environment. We begin by conceptualising 'development' and learning about contemporary development theories and discourses to build the foundation. We will then examine how historic and contemporary development practices and associated social, political and economic relations have shaped and continue to shape approaches to environmental management. We will also examine how our understanding of and approaches to environmental and natural resources management are reflected upon, shape and (re)produce uneven and unequal development. Using a variety of case studies, we will address some key issues that continue to dominate environment and international development discourse, including the relationship between nature conservation and poverty eradication; socioeconomic inequalities and the impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss; indigenous peoples and environmental conservation; and environmental justice and the governance of natural resources. You will leave the module with a critical understanding of the ways our ideas and values about the nature, peoples and places shape real world policies and practices.
Lecture 16, Seminar 16
2,000 words Extended writing. Assessment Details: Essay worth 50%.
2-hours Examination. Assessment Details: Exam worth 50%.
Reassessment Method: Like-for-like
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
Evaluate the complex relationships between environmental sustainability and socioeconomic development, demonstrating an understanding of key concepts such as sustainable development, resource management and ecological limits.
Critically examine global and local policies, frameworks, and initiatives aimed at addressing environmental and development challenges, and assess their effectiveness in diverse contexts
Apply theoretical concepts to real-world case studies, identifying the causes and consequences of environmental degradation and proposing sustainable solutions that balance development needs with ecological preservation
Develop and communicate well-reasoned, evidence-based arguments and policy recommendations to environmental and development challenges on issues such as climate change, poverty, inequality, environmental justice and sustainability.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
