BPEM 1200 - Introduction to Sustainability

Credit Hours: 3.00

Objectives:

1. Define and describe sustainability and sustainable development.
2. Define and describe the concept of The Triple Bottom Line (TBL) as applied to business, government, and personal situations.
3. Define and describe the economic, environmental, and social impacts of sustainability.
4. Utilize data to apply sustainability strategies

Outcome 2:  Upon completion of this course, students will be able to apply the processes and practices necessary to incorporate sustainability into business practices.

Objectives:

1. Identify, define, and apply how the leadership role of management is necessary to successfully incorporate sustainability into the fabric and culture of the company.
2. Define and discuss the importance of commitment, information flow, and employee engagement in supporting change.
3. Define and discuss risk management as applied to economic, environmental, and social needs related to company activities.
4. Discuss and apply pollution prevention and waste reduction practices.
5. Define and discuss new and emerging technology and designing for the circular economy.
6. Research, evaluate, and apply sustainability practices of large and small enterprises (business, governmental unit, or organization).

Outcome 3:  Upon completion of this course, students will be able to prove the success of a sustainability program in a business or other enterprise.

Objectives:

1. Utilize metrics and measurement to identify areas for improvement and to communicate progress both within the company and to outside stakeholders.
2. Verify the sustainability status of a business or other enterprise by reviewing established sustainability reporting processes.
3. Describe and apply the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and certification programs such as ISO, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), and B Corp.

Outcome 4:  Upon completion of this course, students will be able to discuss energy policy developments and methods used for energy management. 

Objectives:

1. Research energy policy and its effects on sustainability globally and locally.
2. Review and apply methods for improving energy efficiency.

Outcome 5:  Upon completion of this course, students will be able to describe the role of sustainability in international affairs and policies.

Objectives:

1. Define and discuss the effects of international organizations, cultures, governments, regulations, economics, and educational status on sustainability.
2. Research and describe the benefits and challenges associated with population and urbanization, natural resources, international law and financing, and health and cultural policies

1. The Concept of Sustainability
2. The Ecology of Commerce
3. Exploring the Ecology of Commerce
4. Environmental, Health, and Safety Regulations
5. Pollution Prevention
6. Defining Business and Organizational Sustainability
7. Quantifying Sustainability
8. Managing Change
9. Collaboration, Stakeholders, NGOs
10. Technology and Innovation
11. Worldwide Sustainability - Policy
12. Worldwide Sustainability - Education
13. Worldwide Sustainability - Urbanization
14. Worldwide Sustainability - Natural Resources
15. Corporate Social Responsibility and Globalization
16. Final Exam