The goal of the course is to transfer theoretical knowledge to students related to linear economics, sustainable development, and circular economics. Students will recognise the foundations of the current linear economy, as well as the consequences of globalisation as a supporting process that disrupts the transition towards sustainable development. They will develop basic skills for recognising the concept of the green and circular economy in the real world and business models. Through examples of good practice, they will gain essential knowledge for working on the transformation of society and achieving long-term sustainability by supporting the sharing economy and the localisation of economic activities.
1. Linear economy
1.1. Globalisation and its consequences
1.2. Defining the linear economy as the dominant business mode
1.3. Consequences of the linear economy (waste, climate change, resource scarcity, loss of biodiversity)
2. Sustainable development – transition towards a sustainable society
2.1. International institutional support for sustainable development
2.2. Fundamental concepts of sustainable development
3. Circular economy – the new European Union paradigm
3.1. Potentials, activities, and principles of the circular economy
3.2. Circular business models
3.3. Business value in the circular economy
3.4. The 4R concept
3.5. Green consumers, environmental protection, and waste management
3.6. EU and the circular economy
3.7. Circular societies
3.8. Practical examples
4. The sharing economy and the localisation of economic activities
1. To explain how the current linear economy differs from the circular economy.
2. To analyse sustainable development in the context of challenges arising from globalisation.
3. To define the theory and concept of the circular economy.
4. To recognise the principles of circularity and their ethical application to the economy and the environment.
