Class Central is learner-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

University of Leeds

Sustainability in Business: Building a Greener Future

University of Leeds via FutureLearn

Write review

Overview

Coursera Flash Sale
40% Off Coursera Plus for 3 Months!
Grab it

Master sustainable business strategies for real environmental and social impact

This course explores the essential principles of sustainability in business and how companies today can adopt environmentally and socially responsible strategies.

Divided into three key sections, it empowers you to understand, implement, and lead effective sustainable business practices across various industries.

Start by diving into the core concepts of sustainable development and the global trends shaping business, from climate change and demographic shifts to resource management.

You’ll learn about the crucial balance between economic growth, environmental stewardship and social justice, understanding why sustainability is now vital for lasting business success.

The role of businesses in sustainable development

Next, explore the essential role businesses play in building a more sustainable world. You’ll examine factors driving companies to adopt sustainability initiatives, including internal motivations and external pressures.

You’ll assess how a business can embrace an approach to sustainability which directly addresses the economic, social and ecological challenges facing humanity.

Practical applications and sustainable business models

Finally, you’ll learn how to apply sustainable business models in real-world scenarios. Case studies, such as Drax Power’s shift to renewable energy, showcases how businesses are adapting.

You’ll also evaluate a business using the Triple Layer Business Model Canvas (TLBMC), a framework designed to integrate economic, environmental, and social goals.

By the end of the course, you’ll be ready to make meaningful contributions to a greener and more resilient business landscape.

This course is an ideal taster for anyone curious about sustainable business practices or considering the University of Leeds; Online Masters in Sustainable Business Leadership. It offers an engaging introduction to sustainability concepts, making it perfect for future leaders looking to drive positive change within organisations.

Syllabus

  • Introducing and defining sustainability
    • Welcome
    • Definitions of sustainability
    • Models of sustainability
    • Sustainability approaches
    • Summary
  • Sustainability as a business issue
    • About Week 2
    • Sustainability as a business issue
    • What influences businesses in their approach to sustainability?
    • Sustainability 1.0 to Sustainability 3.0
    • Summary
  • Business models for sustainability
    • About Week 3
    • Sustainability and business models
    • How do these models work in practice?
    • A business in transition
    • Summary

Taught by

Dr Jonathan Muir

Reviews

Start your review of Sustainability in Business: Building a Greener Future

Never Stop Learning.

Get personalized course recommendations, track subjects and courses with reminders, and more.

Someone learning on their laptop while sitting on the floor.