Introduction to Ecological Economics

NR 185, CDAE 195, BSAD 095, ENVS 195, EC 095

Course Description This course introduces ecological economics as a transdisciplinary framework to economic, social, and environmental problem solving.  "Transdisciplinary" implies a problem-orientation that draws from a diverse web of knowledge across the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.  In this spirit, the class is cross-listed in five UVM programs, including Business Administration (BSAD), Community Development and Applied Economics (CDAE), Economics (EC), Environmental Studies (ENVS), and Natural Resources (NR).  The class builds on a diverse body of student knowledge and experience from across the UVM campus, drawing on each perspective to address complex problems, and to build a shared understanding of solutions that are sustainable in scale, equitable in distribution, and efficient in allocation. The class serves two broad goals: (1) to establish a knowledge base in ecological economics from which to launch subsequent problem-based learning courses at UVM, and (2) acquire problem solving skills to address complex social challenges.  To serve these goals, weekly readings from a recent textbook in ecological economics introduce topics, and student groups then apply course material to a group project involving local advocacy, government, and education institutions.

Course Project Each year a class project develops from weekly communications with a sponsoring advocacy, government agency, or education institution.  The Fall 2003 project developed to meet the needs of the Burlington Legacy Project, a city-based initiative to “guide change for the economic, environmental, and social health of Burlington.”  Building from a Spring 2003 student-led project that estimated the Genuine Progress Indicator (GPI) for Vermont, Chittenden County, and Burlington, the Fall term’s project involved designing and implementing a quality of life survey in the neighborhoods of Burlington.  Findings will be used to assist the Legacy Project in its city planning efforts. MS Word copy of Fall 2003 survey Abstract, submitted for presentation at the Sustainable Communities 2004 conference The Spring 2005 project involved an assessment of environmentally sustainable and socially responsible business practice in Vermont, partnering with Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility and TruCost, LLC.

Offered Spring 2003, Fall 2003, Spring 2005.

Syllabus Fall 2003