Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/transiciones-energeticas-y-ecologicas-en-los-paises-del-sur
In an era defined by the urgent need for sustainable development, understanding the complexities of energy and ecological transitions is paramount, especially for nations in the Global South. Coursera’s MOOC, ‘Ecological and Energy Transitions in Southern Countries,’ offered by the Agence Française de Développement and the École Normale Supérieure de Paris, provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of these critical issues. This is the third edition of the course, now available in Spanish, English, and French, making it accessible to a broad international audience.
The course begins by confronting the undeniable reality: our current development models are not only failing to address inequalities but are actively exacerbating them while simultaneously degrading our planet. It posits that only robust energy and ecological transitions can reconcile economic growth with social progress. A key takeaway is the critique of dominant economic models that hinder progress, emphasizing the need to move beyond GDP as the sole metric of success. The course advocates for incorporating indicators that reflect social well-being and environmental externalities, allowing for more accurate assessments of progress and the formulation of truly sustainable public policies.
A significant portion of the syllabus is dedicated to the ‘carbon accounting’ of GDP, a concept that aims to align our actions with the long-term challenges of energy transition. By quantifying sectoral externalities and promoting transparency in international negotiations, carbon accounting can guide investment towards green assets and facilitate climate accounting projects at a country level. This approach is crucial for fostering a new model of prosperity that is not at odds with environmental preservation.
The course also delves into the critical role of biodiversity, highlighting its importance in ecosystem resilience against climate change. It underscores that preserving biodiversity is not just an environmental imperative but also essential for securing vital resources and cultural well-being.
Furthermore, the ‘Ecological and Energy Transitions in Southern Countries’ MOOC examines the governance of these transitions. It recognizes cities as major players, accounting for 70% of energy consumption, and emphasizes the central role of the state in establishing regulatory frameworks and tariffs to attract long-term financing. While international financial institutions are beginning to act, the course points to regional development banks in the South as crucial drivers of transition investments.
Finally, the financial aspect of the transition is addressed, referencing the Stern Review’s findings that investing in transitions (around 1% of global GDP) is far more cost-effective than the projected costs of inaction (over 20% of global GDP) to combat climate change.
**Recommendation:**
This course is highly recommended for policymakers, researchers, students, and anyone interested in sustainable development, climate change, and the challenges facing the Global South. Its multi-lingual availability and the depth of its analysis make it an invaluable resource for understanding and contributing to the global effort towards a greener future. The practical insights into financing, governance, and economic re-evaluation are particularly pertinent for developing nations seeking to navigate these complex transitions.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/transiciones-energeticas-y-ecologicas-en-los-paises-del-sur