ENV245: The Theory and Practice of Sustainability
Overview
The Theory and Practice of Sustainability is the gateway course for the Sustainability Engagement Certificate. Half of the course included lectures and guest speakers engaging with the three pillars of sustainability: environmental, social, and economic. The other half of the course included a client-based research project carried out in teams. Brandon's team partnered with the Duke Gardens to develop promotional material about their educational opportunities to share with the Duke community.
Taught by Charlotte Clark and Tavey Capps
Skills Developed:
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Qualitative Research Skills
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Video Editing
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Corporate Sustainability Analysis
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Client-Based Interviewing
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IRB Certification
Written Work (click to access):
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Mid-Term Essay: Analyzing the Annual Sustainability Report for Burt's Bees
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Written summary of the research project's analytical components
Relation to Environmental Justice
This course built the foundations for learning about sustainability. You cannot have one pillar while the other two are crumbling. Environmental justice preaches community and inclusivity, in connection with the surrounding environment. These communities are the base of the social pillar. They cannot flourish if they are economically disenfranchised, bringing in the importance of the second pillar. And finally, in order to flourish forever, these communities must have beneficial relationships with the planet.