Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Climate change is a unique environmental issue in that its impacts manifest on a global scale which requires a globally integrated set of responses. The unit therefore commences with an overview of environmental policy and planning theory, illustrated with examples from Australia and overseas, to identify common processes, policies and evaluation mechanisms. The unit then focuses on mitigation and adaptation which are the dual approaches being taken to address climate change and its impacts. Mitigation policies are examined through sessions focusing on the experience of the Kyoto Protocol, carbon trading, carbon capture and storage (CCS), land use and land use change and forestry (LULUCF) and reducing emissions through deforestation and forest degradation (REDD). Adaptation is addressed through discussions of policies relating to sea level rise, biodiversity, water resources, risk management and financial compensation. The unit concludes with a review of recent international and domestic policy developments and likely future trends in climate change policy and planning.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Not available in 2024OnlineOnline timetabled
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an advanced understanding of the complexity of climate change and its impacts from a policy and planning perspective; (2) critically analyse approaches taken by individual governments and intergovernmental institutions in the field of climate change; (3) assess the diverse drivers of climate change policy at the national level; and (4) demonstrating an understanding of the design, potential and limitations of policies in the spheres of climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) essay; (2) critical review of academic paper; and (3) advocacy paper. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Linda Robson
Contact hours
One day a week over six weeks.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.