Global Challenges: Understanding Sustainability and Human Impact

This lecture introduces the global challenges of sustainability, focusing on planetary boundaries, social justice, and systemic interconnections. The instructor outlines the course objectives, emphasizing an interdisciplinary approach that includes human and social sciences. Students will engage in group work within a systemic thinking framework, addressing interdependencies in complex systems. The course is designed as a pedagogical pathway, with specific topics explored in Bachelor and Master programs. The lecture also highlights the diverse teaching team and the importance of collaborative learning. Key themes include the historical context of crises, the concept of polycrisis, and the impact of human activities on the planet. The instructor discusses the evolution of human populations, energy consumption, and the physical, chemical, and biological impacts of these changes. The lecture concludes with a focus on the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of these issues and the need for systemic solutions to address the challenges posed by climate change and resource management.