Energy and Environmental Politics (BST210)
This course takes the history of environmental politics and core environmental concepts, theories and environmental discourses nationally and internationally as the point of departure. The main focus is on energy and climate politics and policy, and its related political controversies. The course emphasises Norwegian energy and environmental policy, the actors and ideological cleavages. In addition, the course covers core international environmental treaties.
Course description for study year 2024-2025. Please note that changes may occur.
Course code
BST210
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
10
Semester tution start
Autumn
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Autumn
Language of instruction
English, Norwegian
Content
The course contains a general introduction to theoretical perspectives and controversies in energy and environmental politics. It has a special focus on the tensions between the production and consumption of fossil fuels and climate change. In short: What are the implications of the Paris agreement for Norway's petroleum policies and the future use of fossil fuels? This issue is discussed in relation to the organization of environmental institutions and principles of environmental policy, actors and cleavages in energy- and environmental politics, measures in environmental policy, international environmental treaties, the ethical foundation of environmental policy and green political theory.
The course will be given in English if there are English speaking students.
Learning outcome
Upon completion of the course, students will have acquired the following knowledge, skills and general competencies:
Knowledge:
- Students will be able to outline core national and international discourses on energy and the environment, and various environmental positions related to these issues.
- Students will be able to have advanced knowledge of the challenges associated with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the climate negotiations and the Paris Agreement, the use of fossil fuels, Carbon, Capture and Storage (CCS), and more.
Skills:
- The students will be able to apply different theoretical approaches in the analysis of Norwegian and international environmental policy
- The students will be able to critically evaluate different energy- and environmental policy measures.
- The students will be able to discuss the ethical and normative foundation of energy and environmental politics.
Competencies:
- After the course, will be able to use the knowledge and skills in the analysis of energy- and environmental problems.
- Students will be able to present central theories and problems in writing and orally, as well as exchange views with others within the subject area.
Required prerequisite knowledge
Exam
| Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Home assignment | 1/1 | 3 Days | Letter grades | All |