NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA

ENVIRONMENTAL AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

COURSE CODE: DES 211

CONTENT DEVELOPERS

  • Dr. Joshua Sunday Riti
    Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences University of Jos, Jos-Nigeria
  • Dr. Solomon Titus Gushibet
    Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences University of Jos, Jos-Nigeria
  • Course Content Editor: Ganiyat A. Adesina-Uthman, PhD, ACMA, MNES, FCE, FIP
    Associate Professor, Department Of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, National Open University Of Nigeria, FCT Abuja

COPYRIGHT AND PUBLISHER INFORMATION

  • © 2019 by NOUN Press
    National Open University of Nigeria, Headquarters, University Village, Plot 91, Cadastral Zone, Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway, Jabi, Abuja.
  • Lagos Office: 14/16 Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos.
  • Email: centralinfo@nou.edu.ng
  • URL: www.nou.edu.ng
  • ISBN: 978-058-023-X
  • No part of this book may be reproduced, in any form or by any means, without permission in writing from the publisher.

COURSE CONTENT

  • Introduction
  • Course Content
  • Course Aims
  • Course Objectives
  • Working through This Course
  • Course Materials
  • Study Units
  • Textbooks and References
  • Assignment File
  • Presentation Schedule
  • Assessment
  • Tutor-Marked Assignment (TMAs)
  • Final Examination and Grading
  • Course Marking Scheme
  • Course Overview
  • How to Get the Most from This Course
  • Tutors and Tutorials
  • Summary

Introduction

  • DES 211: Environment and Sustainable Development is a two-credit, one-semester undergraduate course for Development Economics students.
  • Consists of 12 units spread across 12 lecture weeks.
  • The course guides students to understand environmental issues related to development and sustainable practices.

Course Content

  • Focus on key environmental and sustainable development issues vital for aspiring development economists.
  • Topics include:
    • Historical roots and contemporary discourse on sustainable development.
    • Theoretical perspectives of environment and development.
    • Management of common pool resources and their sustainability implications.
    • Environmental challenges and resource types (renewable and non-renewable).

Course Aims

  • To provide in-depth insight into:
    • Overview of the environment and ecosystems.
    • Human-environment relationships and environmental as an asset.
    • Global environmental problems.
    • The risks of food, energy, and water security.
    • Types of resources and conservation methods.
    • Historical context and present-day issues of sustainable development.
    • Theoretical perspectives on bio-economy.
    • Common pool resources and issues like tragedy of the commons.

Course Objectives

  • Upon completion, students should:
    • Grasp the environment, ecosystems, and their importance.
    • Address global climate change and its ramifications.
    • Understand resource management and conservation strategies.
    • Recognize and evaluate Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
    • Relate population dynamics to resource management.
    • Explore urban sustainability and theoretical perspectives.

Working Through This Course

  • Study Requirements: Read study units, textbooks, and assignment files thoroughly.
  • Study Strategy: Allocating at least 2 hours per unit along with active participation in discussions.
  • Assessments: Self-assessment exercises alongside tutor-marked assignments.

Course Material

  • Includes:
    • Course guide
    • Study Units
    • Textbooks
    • Assignment file
  • Emphasizes self-assessment exercises for evaluating understanding.

Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMA)

  • Involves submitting assignments worth 30% of the final score.

Final Examination

  • Three-hour examination worth 70% of the total course mark.

Course Marking Scheme

  • Total: 100%
    • Assignments: 30%
    • Final Examination: 70%

How to Get the Most from This Course

  • Use the course materials as lectures, focusing on self-study and engaging with peers.
  • Progress through each unit systematically with attention to deadlines for assignments.

MODULE ONE: ENVIRONMENT, ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES AND TYPES OF RESOURCES (RENEWABLE AND NON-RENEWABLE)

UNIT 1: Overview of the Environment as an Asset

CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content

  • 3.1 The Meaning of Environment
  • 3.2 Ecosystem and Environment
  • 3.3 Human-Environment Relationship: The Environment as an Asset
    4.0 Conclusion
    5.0 Summary
    6.0 Tutor-Marked Assignment
    7.0 References/Further Readings

1.0 INTRODUCTION

  • Observing surroundings reveals diverse organisms; environment shapes human existence.
  • Environment vs. Ecosystem: Environment is broad; sometimes confused with ecosystems.

2.0 OBJECTIVES

  • Describe environment and ecosystem differences, and explain human-environment relationships.

3.0 MAIN CONTENT

3.1 The Meaning of Environment
  • Environment: Often broadly defined; conversed as 'nature' or includes human influence. Specifics include landscapes and non-human features, affecting habitats and resources for humans.

3.2 Ecosystem and the Environment

  • Ecosystem: A functioning unit with biotic and abiotic components.
  • Distinction: Environment is the habitat; ecosystem includes interactions and relationships.
  • Biotic factors: Flora and fauna; abiotic: soil, water, climate.
3.3 Human – Environment Relationship: The Environment as an Asset
  • From an economic viewpoint, the environment is a composite asset providing essential services for life.
  • Environment's role: Supplies raw materials and energy, maintains life-support systems, and requires protection from human-induced waste.
  • If the environment's asset value is compromised—through pollution, depletion—human health and safety are similarly endangered.

4.0 CONCLUSION

  • Environment is fundamental for economics and human existence, requiring sustainable management.

5.0 SUMMARY

  • The environment serves as an essential asset providing numerous services, highlighting the need for management to conserve its value.

6.0 TUTOR-MARKED ASSIGNMENT

  1. Define 'environment' and its significance in economic terms.
  2. Explain the depth of the ecosystem concept in relation to environmental studies.
  3. Discuss the value of the environment as an economic asset.

7.0 REFERENCES/FURTHER READINGS

  • Tietenberg, T. and Lewis, L. (2012). Environmental and Natural Resource Economics (Ninth Edition), USA: Pearson Education Inc.

UNIT 2: ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGE IN A GLOBAL CONTEXT

CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
6.0 Tutor-Marked Assignment
7.0 References/Further Readings

1.0 INTRODUCTION

  • Continuous environmental change highlights upcoming challenges — resource scarcity and pollution.

2.0 OBJECTIVES

  • Illuminate global environmental issues related to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions.

3.0 MAIN CONTENT

3.1 Global Climate Change: Science, Policy, and Economics
  • Climate change is intensified by human activities; total greenhouse gas emissions increases argue for need of governmental policies.
  • Heavy impacts seen on ecosystems and human health from climate changes like rising sea levels and temperature extremes.

3.1.1 Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Global Climate Change

  • Anthropogenic factors: Explore the IPAT identity (Impact = Population × Affluence × Technology;
  • Kaya identity expands on IPAT including detailed metrics of CO2 emissions from energy.
  • Historical rise in emissions notably due to population and economic growth but mitigated by efficiency advances.

3.2 International Actions on Global Climate Change

  • Challenges arise in managing emissions amid benefits being indirect and future centered.
  • Historical treaties (e.g. Kyoto Protocol) delineate responsibilities and rights for national entities.
3.3 Other Global Environmental Challenges
  • Discuss many environmental issues like pollution, loss of biodiversity, water scarcity, overpopulation and resource depletion.

4.0 CONCLUSION

  • Climate change poses significant threats requiring immediate responsive action across national borders.

5.0 SUMMARY

  • Issues like climate change, pollution, water scarcity require nip in bud methods through global actions.

6.0 TUTOR-MARKED ASSIGNMENT

  1. Discuss 5 main global environmental challenges.
  2. Explain how greenhouse gas emissions link with climate change?

7.0 REFERENCES/FURTHER READINGS

  • Campbell, B.M., et al. (2016). Reducing risks to food security from climate change. Global Food Security, 11, 34-43.

UNIT 3: ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND RISK TO FOOD, ENERGY, AND WATER SECURITY

CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
6.0 Tutor-Marked Assignment
7.0 References/Further Readings

1.0 INTRODUCTION

  • Explore interconnected challenges of food, energy, and water security due to environmental pressures.

2.0 OBJECTIVES

  • Discuss environmental issues and risks associated with food, energy, and water sectors.

3.0 MAIN CONTENT

3.1 Environmental Challenges and Risk to Food Security
  • States that climate change and food production challenges multiply as demand grows at an alarming rate.
  • Increased water stress exacerbated by rising consumption against finite supplies and unregulated pollution.

3.2 Environmental Challenges and Risk to Water Security

  • Water stress affects number of individuals; consumption patterns lead to alarming shortages and affecting health.

3.3 Environmental Challenges and Risk to Energy Security

  • Demand far outpaces renewal, driving up pollution rates and societal unrest amid search for alternatives.
  • Need for policy shift towards responsible renewable sources supports global commitments against climate change impacts.

4.0 CONCLUSION

  • Sustainable management strategies must be developed to mitigate environmental pressures.

5.0 SUMMARY

  • Food, energy, and water systems interlinked, requiring holistic approaches for secure futures.

6.0 TUTOR-MARKED ASSIGNMENTS

  1. Discuss the inter-linkages of food, energy, and water insecurity due to environmental challenges.
  2. Illustrate how environmental challenges pose risks to food security.

7.0 REFERENCES/FURTHER READINGS

  • Campbell et al., (2016). Reducing risks to food security from climate change. Global Food Security, 11, 34-43.

UNIT 4: RENEWABLE AND NON-RENEWABLE RESOURCES

CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
6.0 Tutor-Marked Assignment
7.0 References/Further Readings

1.0 INTRODUCTION

  • Definitions and significance of renewable vs. non-renewable resources and their utilization potential.

2.0 OBJECTIVES

  • Discuss types and conservation methods of natural resources.

3.0 MAIN CONTENT

3.1 Types of Natural Resources (Renewable and Non-Renewable)
  • Renewable resources: Naturally replenished resources (e.g. forests, solar energy).
  • Non-renewable: Resources that deplete faster than their natural replenishment (e.g. fossil fuels).

4.0 CONCLUSION

  • Renewable resources provide sustainable alternatives but require careful management.

5.0 SUMMARY

  • Introduction of renewable resources importance and conservation mechanisms.

6.0 TUTOR-MARKED ASSIGNMENT

  1. Discuss the environmental implications of both renewable and non-renewable resources.
  2. List the various methods of conserving resources.

7.0 REFERENCES/FURTHER READINGS

  • USDA. (2015). An Economic Impact Analysis of the US Bio-based Products Industry.

MODULE 2: HISTORICAL ROOTS AND CURRENT DISCUSSIONS ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

UNIT 1: Historical Background of Sustainable Development

CONTENT

1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
6.0 Tutor Marked Assignment
7.0 References/Further Readings

1.0 INTRODUCTION

  • Concept's evolution through significant historical milestones focusing on environmental and socio-economic balance.

2.0 OBJECTIVES

  • Understand sustainable development origins and critique sustainability progress.

3.0 MAIN CONTENT

3.1 Definition of Sustainable Development
  • Defined as meeting present needs without compromising future generations.
    • Focus: human and ecological balance, and integration of economic growth with social equity.

3.2 Historical Roots of Sustainable Development

  • Growth through 1969's policies, UN conferences bolstering sustainability agenda; Brundtland Report sets a foundational definition. *"Development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

3.3 Criticisms of Sustainable Development

  • Critique revolves around differing responsibilities of developed vs. developing nations; neoliberal economies creating inequalities hindering sustainability.

4.0 CONCLUSION

  • Complex discussions emphasizing improvements on sustainability necessary for ongoing global development efforts.

5.0 SUMMARY

  • Aspects of sustainable development emphasize balance among economic growth, social needs, and environmental protection.

6.0 TUTOR-MARKED ASSIGNMENT

  1. Describe the critical historical moments in the development of sustainable frameworks.
  2. Analyze criticisms of sustainable development in terms of equity and responsibility.

7.0 REFERENCES/FURTHER READINGS

  • WCED. (1987). Our Common Future. World Commission on Environment and Development. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

UNIT 2: CURRENT ISSUES ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
6.0 Tutor-Marked Assignment
7.0 References/Further Readings

1.0 INTRODUCTION

  • Examining the pressing issues underpin sustainable development, including economic and social disparities affecting ecological sustainability.

2.0 OBJECTIVES

  • Comprehend existing challenges in sustainable development and analyze the economic-growth nexus.

3.0 MAIN CONTENT

3.1 Main Issues
  • Population surges, food security challenges, infrastructural strains in cities
  • Deviating wealth distributions foster ecological degradation and persistent inequities.

4.0 CONCLUSION

  • Sustainable approaches must pivot and adapt to emerging global challenges today and in the future.

5.0 SUMMARY

  • Outlines correlations between economic growth, urban management, and the necessity for sustainable strategies.

6.0 TUTOR-MARKED ASSIGNMENT

  1. Discuss primary current issues undermining sustainable development.
  2. Explain the relationship between economic growth and sustainability.

7.0 REFERENCES/FURTHER READINGS

  • Dodds F. (2015). Negotiating the Sustainable Development Goals: A transformational agenda for an insecure world.

UNIT 3: OVERVIEW OF THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVES OF ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY

CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main Content
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
6.0 Tutor-Marked Assignment
7.0 References/Further Readings

1.0 INTRODUCTION

  • Discourse linking environment and economy integrates ecosystem management with socio-economic frameworks.

2.0 OBJECTIVES

  • Explore economic principles sustainability; understand linkages among socio-economic systems.

3.0 MAIN CONTENT

3.1 Economic Sustainability in Development Theory
  • Addresses production systems that secure immediate needs without forsaking future demands.
3.2 Theoretical Perspectives on Urban Sustainability
  • Urban methodologies, integrated development emphasizing strategic policies for sustainable infrastructures.

4.0 CONCLUSION

  • Acknowledging importance networks for sustainable transitions, harmonizing economic efficiency with environmental stewardship.

5.0 SUMMARY

  • Discusses economic frameworks linking environment, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary approaches.

6.0 TUTOR-MARKED ASSIGNMENT

  1. Define economic sustainability and its relevance to development.
  2. Examine urban sustainability theories and management practices.

7.0 REFERENCES/FURTHER READINGS

  • Perman, R., Ma, Y., McGilvray, J., and Common, M. (2002). Natural Resource and Environmental Economics.