Module 2 – Innovation within Planetary Boundaries

This course aims at rethinking innovation processes within the context of planetary boundaries, departing from the idea that responsible innovation today must operate within a framework of strong sustainability. The focus on planetary boundaries allows to escape the “carbon tunnel vision” and to consider- climate change within the broader context of the Anthropocene (Fressoz & Bonneuil 2013). Furthermore, the convergence between planetary boundaries and social justice issues will be addressed using the doughnut theory (Raworth 2012). Overall, this course will give a comprehensive vision of the “responsible by design” movement. At the end of the course, the students will have gained a better understanding of both the planetary boundaries framework, and sustainability-oriented innovation.

From June 24th to July 2nd, 2024

Total ECTS (European Credit Transfer System): 6

2 weeks, 28 hours and 1 corporate visit

For Graduate students or last year Undergrade

Concepts and subjects covered:

  • The planetary boundaries framework
  • Responsible innovation
  • Sustainability-oriented innovation
  • The doughnut theory

    The idea of planetary boundaries reminds society of the environmental limits within which humanity can safely operate. This course aims at rethinking innovation processes within the context of planetary boundaries, departing from the idea that responsible innovation today must operate within a framework of strong sustainability, beyond climate change. The course will feature the planetary boundaries that have been crossed: climate change, novel entities, biogeochemical flows, land-use change and biosphere integrity, and what are the main causes and consequences of this situation. With a highly participative and interactive approach, the module will combine master classes and work groups on case studies and presentations. Students will be invited to imagine their own innovations (technological, social, institutional) designed to address these planetary boundaries.

    Get to know more about Module 1.