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This module provides an introduction to current issues and challenges in human-environmental interactions and discusses the role of infrastructure in facilitating the dynamic changes of human environmental interactions towards a more sustainable approach.

Through lectures and seminars, the module will familiarise students with theories and principles of the three goals of efficient allocation, fair distribution, and sustainable scale, as well as human well-being, as alternatives to economic growth and heterodox approaches.

Aims:

The main objective of the module is to give students a good understanding of the concepts and terminology of human-infrastructure-environmental interactions and to inspire students to think differently about the relationship between economic activity and the environment. It provides a sound theory and methodological foundation that students can apply in their research or use as a base for more advanced study. The module is designed around principles of active learning; a high level of student preparation and engagement is expected.

Learning Objectives:

• Have a grounding in basic economic concepts in environmental economics and ecological economics
• Understand the fundamental vision of human infrastructure-environmental interactions
• Appreciate the relationship between economic activity and environmental impacts, as well as the role of infrastructure
• Become critical consumers of circular economy models, theories and pathways
• Be able to propose approaches to achieve sustainable scale, fair distribution, and efficient allocation
• Apply a whole system approach to problem-solving and improved written composition skills