In this course we examine local, national and international environmental governance issues, with a focus on ethical principles, theories and frameworks that may be used to analyze and address a range of  problems relating to the environment and development, such as biodiversity conservation, deforestation and climate change, and fisheries management. We consider the organizations, institutions and actors influencing the use of the environment and resources, and we look for policies and tools to address the problems. A range of resource management regimes and modes of management are considered, including common property management, market and non-market incentives for resource management, decentralization, and corporate environmental behaviour.

The course adopts a discussion-based approach to learning which involves active student participation. Learning activities include interactive lectures with the course convener and guest lecturers, tutorials involving group work, class debate, and critical essays and reports.

It is recommended students  read the assigned material before the lecture, addressing at least the assigned questions. Supplementary readings are listed for each week (and available on the internet, or through the library) to exemplify the practical application of the theory discussed, or to allow interested students to go delve deeper in the frameworks and theories. Reading this material is not a requirement, unless specified by the course convener.