While technological change is seen as the root cause of many environmental problems, it is simultaneously viewed as the means of solving such problems.

This course explores technological change as part of positive sum strategies put forward by ecological modernisers. Theories of technological change are reviewed, such as evolutionary, path dependent and long wave, and used to formulate technology policy to achieve transition to a low carbon economy. These are then set in practical contexts such as innovation for a low carbon economy and low-carbon living.   

At a glance

  • DurationFive days
  • LocationCranfield campus
  • Cost£1,400

Course structure

Lectures, case studies, presentations from visiting speakers.

What you will learn

On successful completion of this course you will be able to:

  • Explain the limitations of selected theories of technological change, e.g. linear, induced, path-dependent, and evolutionary.
  • Provide a critical summary of the key trade-offs that occur in achieving technological change and economic development alongside environmental protection.
  • Discuss and present a summary of examples of technological change developed to achieve transition to a low carbon economy.
  • Give examples and explain technology options and policy initiatives to stimulate transitions, e.g. to a low carbon economy
  • Propose and concisely justify a proposal for a low-carbon initiative. 

Core content

  • Ecological modernisation, definition, key aspects, objectives and methodology.
  • Development of associated policy frameworks, market failure, the role of governments, policies and mechanisms to address this.
  • Innovation: technology development, transfer, adoption and diffusion.
  • Innovation and sustainability, utility which process offers in this context, drivers and barriers.
  • Integrated sustainable technology assessment in context.
  • Clusters, technology road-maps and the development of sustainable technologies: Renewable energy.

Upgrade to a professional qualification

Cranfield credits are available for this short course which you can put towards selected Cranfield degrees. Find out more about short course credit points.

Accommodation options and prices

This is a non-residential course. If you would like to book accommodation on campus, please contact Mitchell Hall or Cranfield Management Development Centre directly. Further information regarding our accommodation on campus can be found here.

Alternatively you may wish to make your own arrangements at a nearby hotel.

Location and travel

Cranfield University is situated in Bedfordshire close to the border with Buckinghamshire. The University is located almost midway between the towns of Bedford and Milton Keynes and is conveniently situated between junctions 13 and 14 of the M1.

London Luton, Stansted and Heathrow airports are 30, 90 and 90 minutes respectively by car, offering superb connections to and from just about anywhere in the world. 

For further location and travel details

Location address

Cranfield University
College Road
Cranfield
Bedford
MK43 0AL

Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.