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This module will introduce some of the key conceptual frameworks and specialised methodological tools for assessing the sustainability of resource use. It includes the developing of general knowledge and hands-on experience in concepts such as planetary boundaries and regional scarcities, and the use of specialised tools such as life-cycle analysis (LCA), material flow analysis (MFA), as well as indicators, an introduction to different types of modelling approaches and foresight and scenario analysis, framed under the umbrella of Integrated Sustainability Assessment Frameworks. The module aims to provide the students with a critical understanding of the specialised tools in the field of sustainability and resource management to build strong analytical foundations for the assessment of resource interventions, and to address complex problems and identify more sustainable trajectories of resource use.

The module has an eminently practical approach and aims to equip the students with a general knowledge and hands-on experience in the use of relevant tools as well as other broader analytical frameworks such as system thinking, foresight and scenario analysis and the use of indicators and metrics. The course lectures are complemented with hands-on tutorials introducing supporting software tools. By the end of the module, the students should have developed a general knowledge of the main methods and specialised tools used in the area of sustainability with a focus on assessing sustainable resource use from a practical perspective and the ability to apply them to assess real world and business/policy problems. This module also discusses how to assess future sustainable resource management strategies and the development of an evidence base to draw future pathways and visions.

The aims of the module are to:

• Develop an understanding of the key methodological tools for assessing the use of resources through the economy and their main environmental implications.
• Advance knowledge of sustainable resource management strategies to critically examine future pathways and visions.

By the end of the module students should be able to:

• Use data and models for assessing resource flows, trade-offs between resources, foresight and scenario analysis.
• Be able to assess, develop and discuss Sustainability Integrated Assessments Frameworks.
• Critically examine future pathways and visions regarding future sustainable resource management strategies.Ìý