HOW DO WE MAKE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT “GO VIRAL,” PARTICULARLY FOR AT-RISK COMMUNITIES IN THE DEVELOPING WORLD?
Our natural capital in general and biodiversity particularly, are at risk globally. Pathways to sustainable development depend on the wise use and innovative conservation of natural resources. Properly managed and protected natural capital can generate economic opportunities and be the catalyst for the growth of sustainable communities and businesses.
Billions of people live in rural and semi-rural communities in the developing nations of the world – many of them in poverty and lacking the essentials needed for human health, development, and even simple dignity. Pressures mount to use natural resources in unsustainable ways, further jeopardizing biodiversity and creating a dangerous downward spiral of environmental degradation.
Costa Rica has had a great deal of success in using its natural resources for economic development. We will visit sites where natural resources are being utilized in entrepreneurial ways, developing revenue, employment, and innovative opportunities for continued sustainable development and ecosystem restoration.
Students who successfully complete the course will come away with a stronger understanding of the opportunities for sustainable development in concert with natural resource conservation and restoration.
This course does not have any sections.