Learn 2024

The first part of the module develops theoretical foundations to frame the conceptualisation of environment and development, drawing from the natural and social sciences.  In the second part of the module we apply these concepts to case studies of environment and development issues in Durban and South Africa. The first seminar identifies and examines the range of human-environment relations that exist within the continuum of environmentalism. It outlines the dominant discourses of environmental management that have emerged from this continuum. The social construction of environmental problems and the nature of environmental politics is explored, to provide insight into what becomes elevated as an environmental problem and what remains hidden. The module then considers how science and economics understands and values the environment, by examining the ecosystem services approach for the protection of biodiversity and the management of human environment systems. The theories of ecological modernisation, sustainability and resilience are studied, as these contemporary theoretical frameworks and applied approaches, shape environmental management both globally and in South Africa. Building resilience in cities is explored through the 100 Resilience Cities programme and Climate Resilience concepts.

The second part of the module is applied. You will learn about the shift towards the green or circular economy, both internationally and in South Africa, and how cities are moving towards greater sustainability. The theory and politics of transforming towards sustainable cities will be examined in relation to river rehabilitation projects and the development of climate safe cities. Finally, you will study social and environmental assessment and how this is used to integrate social and environmental concerns into the management of the relations between people and parks in KwaZulu-Natal. The co-production of knowledge for environmental governance is explored, using case studies of co-production in Durban, with an emphasis on transdisciplinary research approaches.