Course information

The aim of the course is to explore business strategies, innovation and marketing that are economically, socially, culturally and environmentally sustainable. Sustainability is complex, which calls for constant exploration and innovation both technical and social. Business is central in addressing global and local challenges such as climate change, pollution, and loss of biodiversity, poverty, resource scarcity and social inequalities. The idea of unlimited economic growth is unsustainable and new strategies such as circular economy, sharing economy, degrowth economy, ecological economy are appearing as alternatives. In developing and marketing for sustainability, value is measured in more terms than economic. Quality of life, experience, ethical and emotional value are of increased importance for meeting the needs and wishes of the consumers today and in the future.

The course uses a case study method to explore and address real problems facing businesses and consumers. In this course, we investigate sustainability strategies and policies; explore how businesses can create added value by reusing and recycling products, how designers can come up with more clever solutions and how material cycles can be created to be more effective. We will use the role of information technology in accessing services, products and assets. Sharing economy based on the abilities of individuals and communities for sharing and co-creating solutions will be studied. Finally, you will learn how sustainability is marketed successfully and how you can contribute to make the change for sustainable economy happen.