Environment and Development

ECTS: 5

This course studies the relation between environment and development in developing (and developed) countries. The focus is on a natural science approach linked to societal issues, such as poverty, population, migration, and a weak institutional and political structure. Possible strategies for environmental improvement are reviewed using case-studies from different countries and sectors. The causes of environmental problems are analyzed on the local, national and international level.

The following issues will be touched upon: the depletion of natural resources; energy; climate change; land use and food; water use.
Each week is organized around one particular theoretical or thematic topic of environment and development.
The course consists of lectures and group assignments. During class, key concepts and theories related to the topic will be explained.