Introduction to Net Zero

This course is designed to guide the student through the concepts broadly associated with Net Zero emissions targets and the means to reach them. The course establishes the problem surrounding climate change and subsequently leads into approaches that seek to address this. The concepts presented are linked to examples and rationales for their application. Following completion of the course, the student should be able to demonstrate sound understanding of Net Zero drivers, factors influencing climate change, and surrounding UK legislation. They will possess a foundational understanding of relevant approaches, solutions, and adaptations to perpetuate meaningful reductions in atmospheric emissions; this is via decarbonised energy generation and storage, transportation, and industrial technologies for direct carbon dioxide remediation. Additionally, they will have an appreciation of Nature-based Solutions, and the potential for shifting from historic to regenerative business models that provide increased security of natural resources.

Who Should Attend
This course, Introduction to Net Zero, is ideal for professionals, academics, and individuals interested in sustainability and climate action, particularly those working in sectors impacted by emissions regulations or seeking to understand Net Zero targets. It is well-suited for those aiming to gain foundational knowledge of decarbonisation strategies, renewable technologies, and innovative business models in the transition towards a low-carbon economy. This course will also benefit individuals keen on integrating Nature-based Solutions or exploring the role of systems thinking in achieving sustainable outcomes.

Course Aims
Conveying to the learner a broad understanding of the background and trajectory of Net Zero, including how we reached this condition and why changes are being actioned. The course shares the issues that have led to the present-day, ongoing drivers of climate change. It outlines and identifies the reasoning behind existing legislative pressures and cultural shifts in global efforts toward decarbonisation. From here, the material delves into the potential solutions that can enact tangible decarbonisation, enabling the learner to feel prepared as the transition towards Net Zero evolves. The course introduces a range of technological solutions, covering the spectrum of renewable energy technologies, sustainable methods in the transport sector, and carbon capture potential. The subject of a hybrid approach in the form of Nature-based Solutions is discussed, by introducing the positive exploitation of restored ecosystems and similar aspects; this will reveal and challenge conventional means of infrastructure in support of Net Zero efforts. Aside from the technological solutions discussed, the shift toward systems thinking and incorporating evolved business models is featured. This explores the fundamental swing in approach relative to traditional economic models.

The learner will be well-placed to understand and capitalise on opportunities relating to the Net Zero agenda. Within the context of decarbonisation, the course imparts a balance of information around the opportunities and the challenges of the solutions, allowing the learner a better capacity in navigating the realistic options, and permitting a more well-rounded and informed ability in decision-making.

Learning Outcomes
Technical Outcomes

• Explain the enhanced greenhouse effect, outlining the roles of individual greenhouse gases (direct and indirect), their sources of emission, and their impacts on climate change.
• Summarize key UK legislative frameworks governing climate change, including policies related to environmental emissions for manufacturers and other sectors.
• Compare different decarbonisation strategies across energy, transport, and manufacturing sectors, identifying their feasibility, benefits, and potential challenges.
• Evaluate alternative economic models for value generation in the context of climate change mitigation, explaining their potential applications and impacts.
• Propose methods of integrating Nature-based Solutions with traditional grey infrastructure to address climate change mitigation, outlining potential outcomes.
  Non-Technical Outcomes
• Integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines to address challenges related to net zero, applying relevant concepts to their own professional or academic context.
• Identify opportunities to apply systems thinking in solving climate change challenges, explaining how interconnected solutions can lead to more cohesive outcomes.

Course Programme

• Net Zero drivers & legislation
• Greenhouse effect
• Greenhouse gases
  • Direct
  • Indirect
• Renewable energy technologies
• Photovoltaics: 1st – 3rd generation
• Wind turbines
• Nuclear
• Hydroelectric
• Tidal
• Geothermal
• Energy storage
• Circular economy
• Sustainable transport
• Carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS)
• Nature-based Solutions

Course Delivery

The course is conveniently delivered through Swansea University’s Learning Management System, Canvas, providing a seamless online learning experience. The course spans 12 weeks, requiring participants to dedicate approximately 3 hours per week to complete it. This structure allows for a manageable yet comprehensive exploration of nature-based solutions.

Throughout the course, participants will engage in three progressive assessment quizzes, complemented by a comprehensive final written assessment that culminates their learning journey. All assessments are conveniently submitted through the secure and user-friendly platform, Canvas.

To ensure a supportive and enriching learning environment, expert guidance and assistance are readily available from our project lecturers and dedicated learning technologists. These experienced professionals can be easily reached through Canvas or via email.