Key facts
UNE unit code: ECON410
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Climate change is one of the defining challenges of our time, reshaping economies, societies, and the future of our planet. This unit explores how economics and policy frameworks help us understand and tackle climate change at a global scale. You’ll examine major international agreements, carbon markets, climate finance mechanisms, and technology cooperation, while learning how economic principles inform real-world solutions for both mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Throughout the unit, you’ll engage with fundamental questions of fairness, justice, and the integration of climate policy with broader sustainability goals. No prior economics background is required – just a curiosity about how we can respond to climate change through evidence-based policy and economic analysis.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- critically evaluate advanced economic concepts and policy frameworks underpinning international climate change action, drawing on current research and debates;
- assess the effectiveness and limitations of major international agreements, carbon markets, and climate finance mechanisms using evidence-based approaches;
- design and justify innovative mitigation and adaptation strategies for climate change, integrating economic analysis with interdisciplinary perspectives in diverse real-world contexts;
- analyse and debate the equity, justice, and ethical dimensions of international climate change policy, considering implications for different stakeholders; and
- communicate complex arguments and policy recommendations on climate change economics and policy to both specialist and non-specialist audiences, demonstrating advanced written skills.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assignment 1: Climate Policy Simulation and Reflection | Yes | 15% | All offerings | Climate Policy Simulation participation and written reflective piece. Word Count: 400 |
| Assignment 2: Analytical Case Study | Yes | 35% | All offerings | Climate policy or measure case study Word Count: 1500 |
| Assignment 3: Policy Proposal & Presentation - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Policy Proposal and reflective piece10-minute Q+A Presentation. The presentation will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Word Count: 2000 Students must obtain at least 50% in Assignment Item 3 (and at least 50% overall) to receive a pass or better in the unit. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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