Course content

The course presents and discusses concepts and content related to business development, sustainable production and industrial activities in the light of the green economy and green value creation. Particular emphasis is placed on how innovation, global initiatives, concepts and systems can contribute so global production is kept within the limits of the planet (resilient production and value chains). The course will also address issues related to organizational aspects and principles of change management related to corporate governance and corporate social responsibility (CSR). We will also examine how corruption and unethical behavior often disrupt sustainable development and environmental best practice.

Current and future value systems and interests considered from different ethical perspectives found in, among others, the Global Compact, environmental ethics, human rights and the society, and about differences in how ethics is expressed in labor practice. Discourses between different actors and stakeholders will also be included in the course. ISO 26000 will be presented as a normative standard for companies' CSR work.

Learning outcome

The position and function of the course: This course is a K - Emne (Complimentary course) for engineering and technology master programs including MIHM and MHMS. The course should contribute to the learning outcome as described below. Throughout the course the students will learn about the main principles of
- Green economy and green value creation associated with industrial activities in global value chains.
- Global initiatives, standards and frameworks for sustainable innovation and development.
- Ethical dilemmas and perspectives based on different principles
- Good Practice for Corporate Governance and the development of business strategies.
The course is divided into 4 main parts in line with the learning objectives. The course will provide skills in:
- Applying knowledge of green value creation in dialogue with businesses and other social actors
- Assessing the social responsibility businesses have in a global economy and the implications this may have for the internal value choices and change processes within a company.
- Considering the ethical implications of different models of corporate governance
- Developing business strategies based on sustainability and holistic thinking.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, exercises, one mandatory semester project. Portfolio assessment is the basis for the grade in the course. The portfolio includes an term paper (25%) and a written exam (75%). The results for the parts are given in %-scores, while the entire portfolio is assigned a letter grade. If there is a re-sit examination, the examination form may change from written to oral.

Compulsory assignments

• Term paper

Recommended previous knowledge

None.

Course materials

Given at semester start.