Biodiversity, Resilient Ecosystems and Sustainable Development
This course explores the complex relationships between biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and development. Participants will examine threats, trade-offs and synergies, and gain practical tools to assess ecosystem resilience and develop measures that work for people and planet.
Registration opens November 2nd, 2026
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, and registrations will close at course capacity
Duration: 05.04.–07.04.2027
Teaching format: Classroom
Course objective:
The world is experiencing a dramatic decline in biodiversity, and vast areas of land are being degraded. The loss of nature has far-reaching consequences, threatening livelihoods and economies. This course explores the complex relationships between biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and development.
Participants will be introduced to key concepts, learn about international frameworks and explore the threats, trade-offs and synergies between human development, ecosystems and biodiversity. The course will also introduce practical tools for assessing ecosystem resilience and present case studies of initiatives that balance human development with the protection, restoration, and sustainable use of ecosystems.
Key topics:
- Key concepts, international frameworks and agreements
- Environmental ethics and indigenous perspectives
- Major threats, trade-offs and synergies between human development, biodiversity and ecosystems
- Social-ecological system resilience assessment tools
- Solution pathways and project examples
- Nature and finance
ECTS points: 2
Examination: Written assignment completed during the course
Course fee: CHF 570
Lecturers:
- Jasmine Neve, NADEL
Sustainable Development Goal
Goal 15: Life on Land