UNITAR Online Catalogue

UNITAR/UNEP e-Learning Course: Introduction to a Green Economy - Concepts, Principles and Applications

Deadline
Type
Course
Location
Web-based
Date
to
Duration
7 Weeks
Programme Area
Environment, Climate Change, Environmental Governance and Law, Public Finance and Trade
Website
http://www.unitar.org/egp/unitarunep-e-course-introduction-green-economy-concep…
Price
$600.00
Event Focal Point Email
envgov@unitar.org
Partnership
UNEP

Background

The concept of a green economy is receiving increasing international attention, as countries explore new patterns of development that take into account economic, social and environmental sustainability considerations. “Green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication” will be one of the main themes of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), June 2012. 

In order to provide interested stakeholders from government, business, civil society and academia with an introduction to the green economy concept the United Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) are developing an interactive e-learning course.

Event Objectives

Participants will learn about different concepts and facets of the green economy, as well as global, national and sector-specific challenges and opportunities to advance low-carbon, resource efficient and socially inclusive development. Additionally, participants will begin to develop basic skills for applying the green economy concept in a real world economic, policy and/or personal context.

Learning Objectives

 After completing the course, participants will be able to:

  • Define the concept of a green economy and explain its value
  • Describe social, environmental and economic benefits of advancing a green economy
  • Identify enabling conditions for greening national economies
  • Provide examples of successful green economy investments, initiatives and projects
  • Identify principal challenges and opportunities for greening key economic sectors
  • Describe national planning processes in support of a green transformation
  • Recognize the range of international and regional green initiatives and support services to foster green development
  • Apply the green economy concept to a real world economic, policy and/or personal context

Content and Structure

The course is composed of 5 modules:

  • Module 1: Introduction to a Green Economy: Rationale, Concepts and Principles 
  • Module 2: Enabling Conditions for Advancing a Green Economy 
  • Module 3: Greening the Economy: Sectors and Strategies
  • Module 4: Developing a Balanced and Inclusive Green Economy
  • Module 5: International Developments and Support to Advance a Green Economy

Methodology

The course pedagogy is adapted to professionals in full-time work. Participants are provided with the opportunity to learn through various experiences: absorb (read); do (activity); interact (socialize); and reflect (relate to one’s own reality). The estimated average workload is seven hours per week over a 6 week period. The reading of an e-book is complemented by a range of learning activities and experiences that include interactive exercises, discussion forums and experiential learning.

Targeted Audience

The course targets groups and individuals that are interested in obtaining a general understanding about the green economy concept and latest developments. They include:

  • Civil servants in national Ministries, provincial departments and local authorities
  • Diplomats from Permanent Missions and Ministries of Foreign Affairs
  • Environmental managers in private sector and civil society organizations
  • Faculty, researchers and students
  • Interested citizens

Additional Information

Certificate of Completion

A Certificate of Completion will be issued by UNITAR to all participants who complete the course-related assignments and assessments successfully. 

Technical Requirements
 
Access to internet is an essential condition for participation. UNITAR also recommends the following as a minimum in hardware and software to take our e-Learning courses:
  • Platform: Windows XP / Windows Vista / Windows 7; MacOSX
  • Software:
  • Browser: Internet Explorer 8 or higher, or Mozilla Firefox
Note: Java, cookies and pop-ups must be enabled