An overview of an online course designed to build foundational knowledge on climate action.
In a world increasingly shaped by environmental change, understanding how to address climate risks is crucial for effective policy and planning. The course, Climate Change: Mitigation and Adaptation, introduces learners to the scientific, technological, and policy foundations of climate action. Learners examine the drivers and impacts of global warming, explore strategies to reduce emissions, and assess practical approaches for adapting to a warming world. Through clear frameworks and real-world examples, the course equips learners with the analytical tools needed to evaluate climate challenges and support informed, sustainable decision-making.
Module 1
Course Orientation
This introductory module eases learners into the course by familiarising them with the Coursera platform, the overall course structure, and key learning resources. Participants engage with a selection of videos, readings, an assignment, and a discussion prompt, helping them feel comfortable navigating the course and interacting with fellow learners. Although many of the tasks in this module are optional, learners are encouraged to take part, as early engagement helps build confidence and fosters a sense of community that supports success throughout the course.
Duration: 34 minutes
Videos: 1
Readings: 2
Discussion Prompts: 1
Module 2
Mitigating Climate Change
This module reviews the policies and actions designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit future warming. Learners explore the main sources of emissions from human activities, including industry, energy systems, buildings, transportation, and agriculture and land use. Through videos, readings, assignments, and discussion prompts, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of mitigation methods and the role of policy, technology, and behaviour in limiting future warming.
Duration: 7 hours
Videos: 6
Readings: 19
Assignments: 6
Module 3
How the World Can Adapt to Climate Change Impacts
This module examines the diverse impacts of climate change on human societies and the natural environment. Learners focus on the strategies that individuals, governments, and industries are using to adapt to a warming world, as well as the social and ethical considerations that accompany these efforts. Learners gain a deeper understanding of adaptation measures and how they can reduce vulnerability while promoting resilience across communities and ecosystems.
Duration: 7 hours
Videos: 2
Readings: 18
Assignments: 6
Module 4
Energy Challenges
This module explores how modern energy use drives greenhouse gas emissions and examines pathways toward a cleaner, more secure energy future. Learners learn about the fundamentals of energy, the transition to electrification, and methods for generating electricity sustainably. The module also emphasises the importance of energy storage, grid resilience, efficiency, and conservation as key strategies for facilitating the low-carbon transition.
Duration: 4 hours
Videos: 2
Readings: 16
Assignments: 2
Module 5
Emerging Technologies
This module studies the evolution of climate-focused technologies and the emerging tools shaping future climate action. Learners explore how innovations such as artificial intelligence and geoengineering are being developed to address global warming, alongside the opportunities and risks they present. Through various tools, participants gain insight into the technological landscape driving modern climate solutions.
Duration: 3 hours
Videos: 1
Readings: 11
Assignments: 1
Module 6
Conclusion
This final module provides a concise summary of the key concepts covered throughout the course, assisting learners in consolidating their overall understanding of climate action. It also introduces additional pathways for continued learning and exploration. The module encourages learners to reflect on their progress and consider how they can further strengthen their engagement with climate issues moving forward.
Duration: 3 hours
Videos: 1
Readings: 4
Assignments: 1
Course Overview
Platform : Coursera
Duration : 3 weeks
Difficulty : Beginner
Flexibility : Self-paced
