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University of Glasgow

Climate and Energy: An Interdisciplinary Perspective

University of Glasgow via FutureLearn

Overview

Gain interdisciplinary skills for climate change solutions

On this four-week course, you’ll join educators from ten universities on a virtual field trip to a remote Swedish island to gain perspectives on climate and energy from a multitude of disciplines.

On our shared journey to this beautiful part of the world, you’ll study the climate of the past, the state of the climate, and climate change solutions.

With this walkthrough, you’ll understand not only what we know about climate change, but where this knowledge comes from.

Delve into the carbon cycle

The second part of the course considers the state of the climate, the ‘wicked’ nature of its associated problems, and the call for interdisciplinary solutions.

You’ll explore key topics, such as the carbon cycle, and gain an understanding of climate terminology to help enhance your communication skills.

Explore different energy solutions

Next, you’ll unpack an interdisciplinary perspective on energy solutions, considering both opportunities and drawbacks.

Through case studies, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the environmental impacts of different energy sources.

With this knowledge, you’ll discover how it is essential to collaborate with specialists of other disciplines working on climate and energy.

Learn how to take steps to a sustainable future

Finally, you’ll explore international climate law and policy as well as solutions such as marine protected areas and counting carbon. This will help you understand whether the challenges of climate change are being addressed effectively.

By the end of the course, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to take a collaborative approach to climate change for more effective action.

This course is designed for anyone with an interest in climate change issues.

It will also be useful for undergraduates who want to broaden their perspective on climate and energy beyond their own discipline.

Syllabus

  • Climate of the past
    • Introduction
    • Climate of the past
    • Reconstructing past climates
  • The state of the climate
    • Carbon cycle and climate
    • Water cycle and climate
    • Biodiversity and climate
  • Energy solutions
    • Sustainable Development Goals
    • Energy sufficiency and efficiency
    • Renewable energy and biodiversity
    • Is hydrogen a solution?
  • Policy solutions
    • International climate law and policy
    • Policy in action: Marine Protected Areas
    • Counting carbon
    • Behavioral change
    • Congratulations!

Taught by

Alasdair Skelton

Reviews

4.7 rating at FutureLearn based on 10 ratings

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