EV5107 - International Environmental Policy and Governance

This subject introduces students to the theory and practice of environmental policy and places these into the broader context of international environmental governance. Topics taught in the subject include: design and implementation of environmental policy; evolution of contemporary environmental governance; international environmental agreements; collaborative governance, and science-based policymaking. Case studies are used to demonstrate the practical implementation of environmental policy initiatives. Students are encouraged to pursue their specific topic interests and to develop facilitation and negotiation skills through a mock Conference of the Parties exercise.

Learning Outcomes

• demonstrate awareness of how environmental policy and governance approaches are designed and implemented in Australia and internationally, including the norms and principles that govern international engagement and national environmental policies;
• analyse and critique environmental policy in the context of the contemporary global and local environmental outlook;
• demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address global environmental problems;
• critically reflect on how and why the principles of environmental policy have evolved over time;
• demonstrate professional skills in group work, and written and oral communication at the relevant level.

Subject Assessment

• tutorial attendance and participation (20%)
• essays (50%)
• conference of the parties preparatory report (30%).

Note: 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.