Environmental Business & Sustainability
This seminar is a discussion-based course for undergraduate and graduate students interested in environmental and sustainability issues from the perspectives of business, economics, and public policy. It focuses on how firms, markets, and institutions respond to challenges, such as climate change, resource constraints, and social responsibility.
Through readings, group discussions, student presentations, and small, research- or policy-oriented projects, participants develop critical thinking skills and learn to connect academic concepts to real-world sustainability challenges in Japan, Asia, and the global economy.
By the end of the seminar, students will be able to:
Understand key concepts in green business, the circular economy, and corporate sustainability
Analyse ESG strategies and sustainability challenges faced by firms and policymakers
Evaluate policy and market responses to climate change and the energy transition
Develop skills in critical reading, discussion, and academic or policy-oriented writing
The seminar is conducted in a discussion-oriented format rather than through traditional lectures. Each session is based on assigned readings, short presentations, and guided discussion led by students and the instructor.
Students are expected to actively participate in discussions, prepare readings in advance, and gradually develop their own research or policy interests throughout the semester. Emphasis is placed on dialogue, critical reflection, and learning from peers in a supportive seminar environment.
Topics may include, but are not limited to:
Green business models and the circular economy
ESG, corporate sustainability, and sustainability disclosure
Energy transition and climate policy
Environmental regulation and market-based instruments
Trade, supply chains, and sustainability
Emerging technologies and sustainability (including AI and Industry 5.0)
The seminar is conducted in both English and Japanese. English is used for key readings, presentations, and discussions in order to help students develop the ability to engage with international academic and policy debates. Japanese may be used as needed to support discussion, clarification, and deeper understanding.
本ゼミは英語と日本語の併用で行われます。国際的な議論に触れるため、文献や発表、ディスカッションの一部では英語を使用しますが、理解を深めるために必要に応じて日本語での補足や議論も行います。
The seminar uses a small-group, interactive format, emphasising discussion, student presentations, and collaborative learning over lectures.
本ゼミは少人数制・対話型の形式を採用し、講義中心ではなく、ディスカッション、学生発表、共同学習を重視します。
Students interested in joining the seminar are encouraged to attend the first few sessions to decide whether it is a good fit for their interests and learning goals. The seminar is open to both undergraduate and graduate students.
Further details on registration and enrolment will be provided through the university’s course registration system. For informal enquiries, students are welcome to contact the instructor.