James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

EV5015 - Sustainability in Practice

Subject Description

This subject explores the efficacy of sustainability and sustainable development by considering a variety of contemporary social processes operating within civil society. The subject begins by considering the theory and practice of sustainability assessment (SA), including typical 'triple-bottom-line' accounting. Sustainability within modern industry and business is considered along with the role of non-profit and non-government organisations. The theory and practice of a variety of approaches that support sustainability are examined including market-based approaches, technocratic approaches and community approaches. Students will have the opportunity to consider other practical initiatives that support sustainability including: sustainability assessment, participatory forms of decision-making, including multi criteria analysis; capacity building; corporate social responsibility; and, community/stakeholder engagement. Assessment in the subject provides students with the opportunity to undertake an independent sustainability research project.

Learning Outcomes

• demonstrate advanced, integrated knowledge and understanding of sustainability combined with specialised disciplinary (e.g. science, business, social science) depth
• critically analyse and evaluate sustainability theory, models, concepts and techniques
• apply analytic tools to define, evaluate and describe sustainability problems and solutions from within chosen discipline/s (e.g. science, business, social science)
• communicate effectively and persuasively, both orally and in writing
• devise, plan and conduct a sustainability research project incorporating appropriate quantitative and/or qualitative research methods from within chosen discipline/s

Subject Assessment

• Written > Literature review - (25%) - Individual
• Written > Proposal - (20%) - Individual
• Written > Research report - (40%) - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Practical assessment/practical skills demonstration - (15%) - Group & Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  EV3011

Availabilities