December 8, 2008 – STUDENTS’ VERSION1
School of Policy, Planning, and Development
University of Southern California
PPD 461: SUSTAINABILITY PLANNING
(Spring 2009, 4 units)
Instructor: Dr. Alethea Abuyuan Monge
Time & Classroom:VKC 211; Mondays and Wednesdays 4-5:50 pm
PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES:
The rapid pace of urban development has resulted in significant impacts on human and ecological well-being – both positive and negative. Planners and policy-makers are at the forefront of the decision-making that involves balancing the pros and cons of development on a daily basis. Sustainability planning is a visionary as well as pragmatic approach to this balancing act.
Given this context, the objectives of this course are: (1) to be familiar with the deep philosophical positions underlying any development narrative; (2) to analyze and prescribe sustainability policies being cognizant of the advantages and disadvantages of each approach; (3) to prepare the student in framing a sophisticated argument in order to overcome the standard obstacles to effective planning and policy adoption.
Our focus will be in planning for sustainability, taking into account theories and landmarks (historical framework); laws and regulations (legal framework); and, the role of various stakeholders (institutional framework). This course will tackle topics under the following categories: global sustainability; environmental economics and ethics; sustainability in the U.S.; new approaches to sustainability; and, financing sustainability.
REQUIRED TEXTS and READINGS:
1) Wheeler, Stephen and Timothy Beatley (editors). 2004. The Sustainable Urban Development Reader. NY: Routledge. ISBN: 041531187X [W&B]
2) Wheeler, Stephen M. 2004. Planning for Sustainability: Creating Livable, Equitable, and Ecological Communities. NY: Routledge. ISBN: 0415322863 [SMW]
3) PPD 461 Course Reader[CR]
4) Other readings will be posted on Blackboard or sent to you electronically as noted on your syllabus[BB]
COURSE FORMAT:
The class will meet twice weekly. Attendance is mandatory. The sessions will be a combination of lecture and discussion, therefore, students are expected to read the assigned texts before each class session and participate fully in class discussions.
OFFICE HOURS:
Since I live in San Diego, I am only available to meet shortly before and after class. Please set an appointment with me beforehand. Also, please feel free to email me at , or contact me by phone at 626 641 3970 (mobile) should you have any questions or concerns.
GRADING:
Midterm:20%
Final Exam:20%
Group Project:30%
Assignment:10%
Participation:20%
Details of grading:
The In-Class Midterm and Take-Home Final Exam(20% each) will test the students’ knowledge of the subject matter in the required readings, instructor presentations and student presentations. It is therefore important for students to be attentive and take notes of the important points. Please make use of Blackboard to review lectures, presentations, and other material to prepare for exams.
Group Project:Select an infrastructure or service sector thatCalifornia either lacks or which needs serious improvement. Develop a concept that uses sustainable approaches and principles that will allow that particular sector to serve the public efficiently while at the same time mitigating or eliminating environmental damage and bringing in revenue for the city. In addition to a concept paper and two presentations highlighting the “before” and “after” of your proposed project, the output of your project should also include a memo to state government officials that (1) educates the decision-maker on the need for your proposed good or service and all other relevant goods and services that accompany it or are necessary for its implementation; (2) explains the key features of your proposed good or service in clear and succinct terms; (3) identifies any alternatives; and (4) lays out the impacts (social, environmental, physical, etc) and other considerations given monetary and political realities. For this project, I encourage you to read the chapters on different levels of planning in the SWM textbook.
- Concept paper (background, concepts and proposed approach, max. 4 pages): 10%
- Presentations (policy and/or planning solutions): 10%
- Memo accompanying presentation (max 10 pages): 10%
Assignment (4-6 page essay): There will only be one assignment worth 10% of your grade. Each student will be required to select a reading from the syllabus and comment on its significance in achieving sustainable planning. As part of the essay, you will need to research an article (academic or from current events) that is relevant to that reading and explain why you chose it and what value it adds to the subject. In addition, be prepared to contribute actively when your particular reading is taken up in class.
Participation points(20%) consist of class attentiveness and input. If you do not attend class, your participation points will inevitably be affected. Students should keep abreast of current events pertaining to environmental policy and management, not only in the US but in other countries as well, in order to connect lectures with real-life happenings. You are also encouraged to do web research on the topics of the lectures and presentations and post your findings on Blackboard.
INTEGRITY
Academic integrity is of paramount importance. I take this responsibility seriously. The papers will be carefully read and checked. I want to trust you and treat you as adults, but I also know that the pressures on students to use unethical means to succeed are very strong. Anytime someone cheats that person is not only scamming the system, but also damaging the credibility of each and every student’s achievements. For further information, such as the precise definition of plagiarism, please take a look at the Student Conduct Code material reprinted each year in SCAMPUS.
DISABILITIES
Any student requesting academic accommodations based on a disability is required to register with Disability Services and Programs (DSP) each semester. A letter of verification for approved accommodations can be obtained from DSP. Please be sure the letter is delivered to me as early in the semester as possible. DSP is located in STU 301 and is open from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday. The DSP phone number is (213) 740-0776.
WEEKLY READINGS:
The following is a list of required readings that will help students prepare for each lecture. During the course of the semester, we will be responding to new research and current events, and may add or replace some readings.
Codes for Readings:
SMW – Wheeler textbook (Planning for Sustainability)
W&B – Wheeler and Beatley (Sustainable Urban Development Reader)
CR – Course Reader
BB – Blackboard
All readings are required unless otherwise noted.
Foundations
Introduction to the courseJanuary 12
□Objectives, goals, and expectations
□Syllabus review
□Ground rules (dress code, participation, grading, etc.)
Defining Sustainable Development and Sustainability PlanningJanuary 14
The term “sustainable development” has been around for many years now. But how was it first defined? Has its meaning changed over time? Or has it lost its meaning along the way? How do we apply this concept in planning?
World Commission on Environment and Development. 1987. Towards Sustainable Development. In Our Common Future. WCED: Oxford University Press. [W&B, pp. 53-57]
SMW, Chapter 1: Introduction, pp. 1-18.
SMW, Theory of Sustainability Planning, pp. 34-50
SMW, Planning and the Three E’s, pp. 53-65
Martin Luther King Day (No class)January 19
Global Sustainability
The Global Environmental Problem January 21
How have our actions impacted our environment, and what does this mean in terms of future growth and development? We will look at the current state of the world and on the most pressing ecological problems we face today.
Percival, Robert, et. al. 1996. Environmental Regulation: Law, Science, Policy. Aspen: Aspen Law and Business, pp. 2-11 [CR].
Meadows, Donella H. 1972. Perspectives, Problems and Models. In The limits to growth: Club of Rome. New York: University Books. [W&B, pp. 42-46]
Pew Center on Global Climate Change, “Climate Change 101: Overview” [CR]
Useful web resource:
Global SolutionsJanuary 26
The interconnectedness of our actions and of environmental problems requires the appropriate response on a global scale. We will discuss what has been done on an international level, particularly with regard to international environmental law and policy (treaties, agreements, protocols).
SMW, Chapter 6: Tools for Sustainability Planning, pp. 85-97 only
SMW, Chapter 7: International Planning, pp. 102-113
Wackernagel, Mathis and William Rees. What Is an Ecological Footprint? From Our Ecological Footprint. New Society Publishers. [W&B, pp. 211-219]
HOMEWORK:
Look up these web resources on calculating your carbon footprint:
Global SolutionsJanuary 28
We continue our discussion on global solutions by looking at case studies in different parts of the world.
Rabinovitch, Jonas and J. Leitman. 1996. Urban Planning in Curitiba. [W&B, pp. 237-248]
Friberg, Lars. “Innovative Solutions for Public Transport: Curitiba, Brazil”. Sustainable
Development International. [CR]
Beatley, Timothy. 2003. Planning for Sustainability In European Cities: A Review of Practice in Leading Cities. [W&B, pp. 249-258]
Environmental Economics and Ethics
Economic Growth and DevelopmentFebruary 2, 4, and 9
Contrary to what some people think, economic growth and development can occur alongside environmental protection. In this session, we will be introduced to some conventional economic paradigms used in the study of environmental economics(such as the “commons” debate; market failures and externalities; benefit-cost analysis; growth within the steady-state).
SMW, Sustainability and Economics, pp. 55-60.
Arrow, Kenneth et al. 1996. EconomicGrowth, Carrying Capacity and the Environment. Ecological Applications. 6(1):13-15[CR].
Pearce, David and Edward B. Barbier. 2000. The Economic System and Natural Environments. In Blueprint for a Sustainable Economy. [W&B, pp. 159-161]
Hardin, Garrett. 1968. The Tragedy of the Commons. Science. 162: 1243-48. [CR].
Daly, Herman E. 1973. The Steady State Economy. In Towards A Steady State Economy. San Francisco, CA: W. H. Freeman. [W&B, pp. 47-52]
Environmental EthicsFebruary 11
Responding to environmental issues requires not only technical and economic solutions, but also moral or ethical obligations. In this light, we will look at issues surrounding the intrinsic value of nature, and the complex task of balancing the rights of all living creatures as illustrated by environmental justice and social equity concerns.
Pearce, David. 1998. Auditing the Earth: The Value of the World’s Ecosystem Services and Natural Capital. Environment. 40(2): 23-28 [CR].
SMW, The role of values and institutions, pp. 32-33
SMW, Sustainability and Equity, pp. 60-65
Bullard, Robert. 1990. People-of-Color Environmentalism. In Dumping in Dixie: Race, Class, and Environmental Quality.[W&B, pp. 143-149]
President’s Day (No class)February 16
Presentation and Discussion of Group Concept PapersFebruary 18
The US Sustainability Movement
Roots of the US Environmental MovementFebruary 23
The US has a relatively young, but significant, environmental movement. We look at the history behind environmental thinking here in the US, as well as domestic environmental law and policy.
Percival, Robert, et. al. 1996. Environmental Regulation: Law, Science, Policy. Aspen: Aspen Law and Business, pp. 15-25[CR].
Percival, Robert, et. al. 1996. Environmental Regulation: Law, Science, Policy. Aspen: Aspen Law and Business, pp. 102-114[CR].
SMW, Chapter 8: National Planning, pp. 114- 124.
Towards a Sustainable Urban FormFebruary 25
How has the US tried to achieve sustainability in its urban settings? We will look at the key issues in sustainable urban planning, historical and current trends in compact cities, urban growth management, and new urbanism.
SMW, Chapter 5: Issues central to sustainability planning, pp. 66-84.
SMW, Chapter 11: Local government planning, pp. 152-180
Sustainable Urban FormMarch 2
Jabareen, Yosef R. 2006. Sustainable Urban Forms: Their Typologies, Models, and Concepts. Journal of Planning Education and Research. Vol. 26, pp. 38-52 [CR].
Calthorpe, Peter. 1993. The Next American Metropolis. In The Next American Metropolis: Ecology, Community and the American Dream. Princeton Architectural Press. [W&B, pp. 73-80]
Building and Designing GreenMarch 4
Taking off from our discussion on sustainable urban form, we will learn about how urban designers and architects apply sustainable principles on a smaller scale.
SMW, Chapter 13: Site planning and architecture, pp. 216-234
Vale, Brenda and Robert. 1991. Principles of Green Architecture. In Green Architecture.[W&B, pp. 188-192]
Eisenburger, David and Peter Yost. 2001. “Sustainability and Building Codes”. Environmental Building News. 10(9), 2001. [W&B, pp. 193-198]
Building and Designing GreenMarch 9
Discussion of case studies
MID-TERM EXAMMarch 11
SPRING BREAKMarch 16 and 18
Policy Direction in the United StatesMarch 23
Is the US on a sustainable path? We will analyze and discuss where the country is headed and what it means in terms of reforming domestic environmental law and policy and our role in the international environmental community.
Elliott, E. Donald. 1997. Toward ecological law and policy. In Esty, D. and M. Chertow (eds). 1993. Thinking Ecologically: The next generation of environmental policy. New Haven: Yale University, pp. 170-186. [CR].
Pew Center on Global Climate Change. “Learning from State Action on Climate
Change”, May 2008. [CR]
Leading Trends in the Sustainability Movement
The special topics in the following sections will touch on promising – and proven -- directions in planning and policy-making; the role of business and industry in achieving sustainability; the need for collaborative processes; and, the emergence of new players from civil society.
Industrial EcologyMarch 25
Also known as the “science of sustainability”, industrial ecology provides business and industry with a concrete framework for ‘closing the loop’ in their operating systems and ensuring that waste is treated as any other valuable resource.
Jelinski, L.W., et. al. 1992. Industrial ecology: Concepts and approaches. Proceedings of the National Academy of Science. Vol. 89, pp. 793-797. [CR].
Erkman, S. 1997. Industrial ecology: an historical view. Journal of Cleaner Production. 5(1-2): 1-10. [CR].
Girardet, Herbert. 1999. The Metabolism of Cities from Creating Sustainable Cities. [W&B, pp. 125-132]
Corporate Social ResponsibilityMarch 30
“CSR is the integration of business operations and values, whereby the interests of all stakeholders including investors, customers, employees, the community and the environment are reflected in the company's policies and actions” ( Are businesses really doing good work, or are they only “greenwashing” themselves and deceiving the public? This session is devoted to learning about what concrete and real actions the corporate world is involved in.
Moir, Lance. 2001. “What do we mean by corporate social responsibility?” Corporate Governance. Vol. 1, No. 2, pp. 16-22. [CR]
The Economist. “Just Good Business: A Special Report on Corporate Social Responsibility”. January 19th, 2008. [BB]
Pew Center on Global Climate Change. “Climate Change 101: Business Solutions”. [CR]
Useful web resources:
Civic Environmentalism and Social ActivismApril 1 and 6
New players have emerged on the environmental stage, such as faith-based groups and eco-feminists. We will discuss the roles of those players, as well as the roles of more traditional actors and institutions.
SMW, Institutions and policy mechanisms, pp. 98-101
Hsiao, M.H. and Hwa-Jen Liu. 2002. Collective Action Toward A Sustainable City: Citizens’ Movements and Environmental Politics in Taipei. In Livable Cities?: Urban Struggles for Livelihood and Sustainability [W&B, pp. 259-274].
Collaboration: Ecosystem Approach and
Participatory Decision-MakingApril 8
In post-modern planning theory, collaboration among stakeholders and decision-makers plays a central role. From managing resources in an integrated fashion (the “ecosystem approach”), to encouraging stakeholder participation, practitioners have come to view collaboration as a given in the planning process.
UNU/IAS. 2003. “Defining An Ecosystem Approach to Urban Management and Policy
Development”. UNU/IAS Report. [CR]
How do we finance a sustainable world?
It would be unrealistic to plan for a sustainable future without considering where or how to finance it. In this final module of our course, we will delve into some popular financing options employed today.
Economic Instruments and Market-Based MechanismsApril 13 & 15
Do we impose taxes and fees? Or do we let the market decide on how to generate funds for environmental activities? How do we balance both options?
Stavins, R. 2003. Market-Based Environmental Policies: What Can We Learn from US Experience and Related Research? JFK School of Government Faculty Research Working Paper Series. Harvard University, July. [CR]
Claussen, Eileen and J. Greenwald. 2007. “Op-Ed: Cap-and-Trade Vs. Tax”. Miami Herald. July 12. [CR]
Optional Readings:
Pew Center on Global Climate Change. “Tax Policies to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions”. Congressional Policy Brief. [BB]
Braun, D., R. Saines, A. Abuyuan, and G. Yago. 2007. “A Cap-and-Trade Program
Design for Greenhouse Gases: Achieving Flexibility and Cost-Effectiveness in
Tackling Climate Change”. Milken Institute Policy Brief. February. Santa Monica,
CA: Milken Institute. [BB]
Public-Private PartnershipsApril 20
Cash-strapped governments are finding it increasingly necessary to partner with the private sector in order to deliver urban environmental services. We will look at the merits, as well as pitfalls, of this financing option.
Principles of Good Planning
Faulkner, J. Hugh. 1997. Engaging the Private Sector Through Public-Private Partnerships. Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies Bulletin Series (Bridges to Sustainability: Business and Government Working Together for a Better Environment) No. 101. New Haven: Yale University, pp. 157-172.[CR]
Useful web resource:
Venture Philanthropy, Socially Responsible Investing, and
Blended Value InvestmentsApril 22
Wealthy individuals, private foundations, and venture capitalists are devoting more and more of their resources to investments and activities that provide them with social and environmental returns. Individuals also show their support for socially and environmentally responsible companies by investing in their stock or becoming shareholders. Corporations, meanwhile, invest in or finance projects that not only reap economic benefits but also serve a larger purpose for the community or the environment.
Buttenheim, Alison. 1998. “Social enterprise meets venture philanthropy: A powerful
combination”. Los Angeles Business Journal. [CR]
Randjelovic, J. et al. 2003. “The emergence of green venture capital”. Business Strategy and the Environment. Vol. 12, No. 4, pp. 240-253. [CR]
SRI Factsheet [CR]; also check out
World Economic Forum. 2005. Private Investment for Social Goals: Building the Blended Value Capital Market (Executive Summary). Geneva: World Economic Forum. [CR]
Final Group PresentationsApril 27
Wrap-Up and Review (Final Memo-Group Project Due)April 29
SMW, Chapter 14: How do we get there from here?, pp. 235-24
FINAL EXAMTake-home
1