ECO.1005 Foundations of Sustainability
This course offers an introductory overview of sustainability and its growing integration into finance, business, and economic decision-making. Students will explore the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) dimensions of sustainability and examine how financial systems, corporations, and public institutions incorporate these considerations into strategies, investments, and policies. Students will learn how environmental and social factors affect business performance, risk, and valuation; how governance structures shape accountability; and how investors, regulators, and stakeholders use ESG information. The course emphasizes conceptual understanding rather than being technical. Through case studies, real-world examples, and interactive discussions, students will learn how sustainability and ESG principles are shaping corporate behavior, investment decisions, and global markets. The course is designed for students from all disciplines who are interested in understanding the role of finance in addressing social and environmental challenges.