LAS437 Sustainable Business in East Asia

Autumn Semester 2025/26

30 credits 

Module Organiser: Dr. Vic Li (yu-wai.li@sheffield.ac.uk)

Overview

How is East Asian business adapting to and driving the sustainability challenge? This module will explore the regulatory and policy sustainability frameworks, analyse how businesses are responding to external pressures, and analyse business operations including resource management, supply chain processes, finance and investment, and innovation in sustainability through case studies from East Asian business, public and social organisations. Through learning about different facets of sustainable business, including transformation of resource management, the greening of production and supply, sustainable and green finance and technological innovations, and partnerships with government and society in fostering sustainability, you will develop a nuanced and critical understanding of how East Asia’s businesses operate within the sustainability paradigm.

Topics Covered

• Regulatory landscape and policy drivers in East Asia

• Green investment

• Circular economy and resource management

• Sustainable supply chain management

• Social dimensions of sustainable business

• “Twin transition”

• Greening of digital and IT sectors in East Asia

• Sustainable business leaders and challenges

• Future trends and challenges

Skills Development

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to demonstrate:

• Critical thinking

• Communication

• Global awareness

• Academic writing

• Sustainability

• Translating knowledge

Study Hours

The University recommends that you spend 300 hours working on a 30-credit module. This will include:

• Lecture (and in-class discussion and other learning activities): 20 hours 

• Independent study hours: 280 hours