Sustainable Business Practicum

1.5 Credits · Level: Graduate

Companies are increasingly facing several new and urgent challenges affecting their operations and business models. The rising cost and scarcity of some raw materials is requiring firms to invest in operational efficiency and recapturing value post‐use. Geographical disparities in water, climate and energy risks are inducing firms to proactively redesign their supply chains and operations. The global nature of supply chains, including presence in countries with weak regulation and institutions, requires firms to undertake a new approach to supplier management, and safeguard its reputation and access to resources. On the other hand, these challenges also represent opportunities for product differentiation, innovation, and eco‐entrepreneurship. Responding to environmental considerations may provide firms with ways to do well while doing good. This course provides you with an opportunity to work on a real‐world problem related to sustainable business faced by a business, a non‐governmental organization or an institution. You will work in teams on client projects, which will be curated by the instructor, and range across different topics and industries. You will not only be able to gain experience solving such problems but also integrate knowledge from your previous coursework related to sustainable business strategies. More generally, the course will also allow you to hone your problem‐solving and consulting skills. Examples of such projects would include analyzing the economic or environmental potential of different business strategies related to business models, supply chains, or product development, developing marketing and communication plans for sustainability strategies, etc.