Geography

The course discusses how different forest management practices and intensities influence biodiversity. It presents methods on how to assess and evaluate impact of forest management actions on flora and fauna diversity and discusses possible trade-offs between forest wood production and biodiversity.

This is a special studies course with projects arranged between the student and faculty member. The specific topics of study vary each term and are described on a special study project form for each student. The number of units varies with the student's project, contact hours, and method of assessment, as defined on the student's special study project form.

This course discusses how innovations and transitions are embedded in larger processes of social and geographical change. The first module outlines the need for deep seated sustainability transitions in a context of accelerating global climate and environmental change. Theories on sustainability transitions and innovation are presented. A distinction between traditional, social and sustainable innovations is introduced. The Multi-Level-Perspective, which analyzes how niche innovations sometimes scale up and transforms larger sectors in the economy, is presented together with perspectives on power and geography. The second module discusses the role of wind energy in sustainability transitions. The history and current status of wind technology is emphasized. The preconditions and challenges connected with a further upscaling of wind energy are highlighted. The third module discusses the role of solar energy. Current institutional and policy potentials and barriers in the Global South and North towards a further upscaling of solar energy are discussed. The fourth module presents and discusses the role of a more circular economy as part of sustainability transitions.