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Unit of study_
WORK3210: Climate Change and Work
2025 unit information
Climate change presents fundamental challenges to the organisation of work and industrial relations. Beginning with the British industrial revolution and then through the long and continued reliance on fossil fuels and carbon-intensive production methods in industry, supply chains and transportation systems, work-based actions have changed the climate. Recognizing the impacts of climate change, some workplaces are shifting to low-carbon and sustainable forms of production, and new 'renewable' industries are emerging. These developments are prompting a re-thinking and re-evaluation of work. To explain these issues, this unit explores theories of work, capitalism and nature, exploring concepts such as the Anthropocene, just transition, green jobs, and the 'green new deal'. It goes on to examine the relationships between business, government and civil actors like trade unions, and community groups in both resisting and driving changes in work amid the climate crisis. It does so attentive to the differences within and between countries in how work, industrial relations and climate change itself are experienced and understood.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Business (Business School)
| Study level | Undergraduate |
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| Academic unit | Work and Organisational Studies |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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Completion of at least 48 credit points |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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None |
| Assumed knowledge:
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WORK1003 and (WORK1004 or WORK2201) and WORK2203 and WORK2205 |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. Evaluate the relationship between climate change and work and employment relations, using relevant theories of work, capitalism, and nature
- LO2. Critically assess different workplace and policy solutions that can assist societies, businesses, and other stakeholders to shift to more low-carbon and sustainable forms of production
- LO3. Devise and communicate evidence-based solutions to work-related climate change challenges
Unit availability
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