Final Writing Assignment

ASSIGNMENT
For this paper, address issues learned in the course that provide a framework for corporations operating in the global economy (globalization) that move us towards sustainability (closing open loops of consumption). Consider actions that need to be addressed by trade organizations and governments. Be laser focused on achieving sustainability and environmental justice. Be sure to discuss globalization and its relationship to environmental issues, key trade agreements, and mechanisms to move us toward sustainability.

1. In one or two paragraphs define globalization, its relationship to environmental issues and explain why corporate and government globalization leaders must work to resolve to them while also addressing environmental justice issues. Discuss key environmental problems (threats to sustainability) that must be resolved. Include scientific methods that industry can use to reduce negative environmental impacts. Use information from the course lectures and assignments.

2. We covered many topics in this course. Include concepts from at least three of the topical areas from the following list and write at least two paragraphs about each of them. In the first paragraph define the concept. In the second paragraph, describe how it moves industry towards sustainability.
A. Critical thinking and Total Environmental Perspective (TEP)
B. Separating science from pseudoscience (avoiding poorly developed opinions)
C. The LCA tool (two types) to find and reduce ecological footprints
D. Applying industrial ecology mechanisms to reduce pollution, creating markets for discards and making them into products
E. Importance of applying principals of eco-design to reduce negative environmental impacts
F. Use of green supply chains
G. Closed loop recycling with the European DSD, WEEE, and/or ROHS programs
H. The use of the ISO for industry to self-regulate and reduce environmental impacts
I. EPR as a mechanism for corporate responsibility that closes open loops of consumption, and internalizes externalities of production while managing discarded end-of-life products.
J. Reducing negative environmental impacts and human rights abuse by applying principals of environmental justice and Fair Trade
K. The role of the WTO or NAFTA in expanding markets, creating opportunities (Free Trade Agreements) and what they can do to reduce negative environmental impacts
L. Applying Industrial Ecology to maximize resource use, reduce wasting of resources, and creating markets for what had been considered ‘waste.’
M. Using principles of Green Building to reduce energy use and reduce risks to workers within them

3. Make a conclusion. In 1-3 paragraphs, tie together the concepts you’ve written about.