The Introduction to Green Economy course, provided by the One UN Climate Change Learning Partnership (UN CC:Learn) in collaboration with the Partnership for Action on Green Economy (PAGE), is a free, self-paced online program designed to deliver a thorough understanding of green economy principles. Hosted on the UN CC:Learn platform, this course equips learners with the knowledge to foster low-carbon, resource-efficient, and socially inclusive economies. Requiring approximately 9 hours of core study plus 3 hours of practical exercises, it is accessible to global learners without prerequisites, making it suitable for anyone committed to advancing sustainable development.

Core Content

The curriculum explores the fundamentals of a green economy, emphasizing its role in enhancing human well-being and social equity while reducing environmental risks. It covers essential concepts, policy instruments, and international frameworks that support green economic transitions. Learners examine opportunities and challenges in sectors such as energy, agriculture, and industry, alongside national strategies for sustainable development. Through real-world case studies and practical examples, the course highlights actionable steps for governments, businesses, and individuals to implement green practices effectively.

Key Skills

Participants will develop the ability to define green economy principles, identify sector-specific opportunities for sustainability, and evaluate challenges in transitioning to a green economy. The course equips learners with skills to apply policy frameworks, design inclusive green strategies, and implement practical solutions for sustainability. Practical exercises provide hands-on experience in planning and executing green economy initiatives, enabling learners to drive meaningful change in their professional or community roles.

Target Learners

This course is tailored for professionals, policymakers, educators, and individuals across industries who seek to integrate sustainability into their work. It is particularly relevant for those in government, business, or civil society roles aiming to advance green economy principles, as well as newcomers to ESG concepts. Its global perspective makes it ideal for learners worldwide who are dedicated to building climate-resilient and socially inclusive economic systems.

Learning Format

Delivered through the UN CC:Learn platform, the course is self-paced and available in English and Spanish, featuring five modules with quizzes requiring a 70% pass rate for completion. It includes engaging videos, interactive lessons, case studies, and practical exercises to enhance understanding. The free course offers a certificate of completion upon passing all quizzes, downloadable from the platform. Its flexible format accommodates busy schedules, ensuring accessibility for a global audience.

Additional Benefits

The course delivers measurable learning outcomes, enabling participants to apply green economy principles to real-world challenges, such as policy development or business innovation. Supported by five UN agencies (UNEP, ILO, UNDP, UNIDO, UNITAR), it provides credible, expert-driven content aligned with global sustainability goals. Learners join a global community spanning over 90 countries, gaining insights from international best practices. The certificate enhances professional credibility, equipping graduates to contribute to sustainable, inclusive economic systems and support a low-carbon future.

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