Sustainable Development Law Survey

Catalog description

Sustainability is often defined as a balance of the three E's: the environment, the economy, and social equity. This course will cover sustainable development topics such as local water and land resource protection laws, smart growth, preventing urban decay, transit-oriented development, and fair and affordable housing. In addition, collaborative decision-making tools and techniques will be taught due to the complex nature of sustainable development law. A particular focus will be put on the equitable inclusion of all stakeholders. A hypothetical project will be used to cover the basics of the land use system and reflect on the authority and power given to local board members. It will also be used to understand the foundations of the required decision-making process and explain why this process is not very effective in sustainable development situations or public engagement. While normally thought of as rigid and inaccessible, the process can be made more flexible and inclusive to help reduce energy spent on unproductive and divisive controversy. Students will receive a description of the Collingsburg hypothetical development project. Each student will be assigned a role and participate in daily class exercises.