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CNCC

Carbon Neutrality and Climate Change

CNCC 5100
Carbon Neutrality and Climate Change
[3 Credit(s)]
Description
This course explores the concepts of climate neutrality and climate change from a multidisciplinary perspective. The course covers the scientific, technological, economic, political, and social aspects of climate neutrality and climate change, including mitigation and adaptation strategies, carbon accounting, renewable energy, energy efficiency, carbon markets, climate policy, and international climate negotiations. The course also examines the ethical and justice dimensions of climate change, including the distributional impacts of climate policies and the responsibilities of different actors in addressing climate change. By the end of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities of achieving climate neutrality and addressing climate change, as well as the skills to engage in cutting-edge research in this field.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the concept of carbon neutrality and its significance in addressing global climate change.
- 2.
  Evaluate and apply advanced methodologies for measuring and assessing carbon footprints, as well as analyzing sources and types of greenhouse gas emissions, in order to develop and implement effective strategies for achieving carbon neutrality.
- 3.
  Analyze and compare different carbon offsetting mechanisms and carbon credit systems, and assess their effectiveness and limitations in the context of achieving carbon neutrality and mitigating climate change. 
- 4.
  Evaluate and propose innovative solutions for integrating renewable energy technologies into various sectors to achieve carbon neutrality, and critically assess the challenges and opportunities associated with renewable energy implementation.
- 5.
  Develop and propose strategies for implementing carbon capture and storage technologies, and critically evaluate their feasibility and potential impact on achieving carbon neutrality and addressing climate change challenges.
- 6.
  Synthesize and critically evaluate the role of policy, regulation, and government frameworks in facilitating the transition to carbon neutrality, as well as propose and assess policy recommendations and legal frameworks to support carbon neutrality initiatives at local, national and international levels.
CNCC 5120
Data Science in Policy and Sustainability
[3 Credit(s)]
Co-list with
IPEN 5810
Exclusion(s)
IPEN 5810
Description
In the digital age, the proliferation of big data—from social media text to high-resolution satellite imagery—provides unprecedented opportunities to analyze human behavior and environmental systems. This course equips postgraduate students in applied economics, public policy, and sustainability studies with cutting-edge data science techniques to address complex social and environmental challenges.Students will learn to collect, process, analyze, and visualize large-scale datasets, utilizing methodologies such as machine learning, high-dimensional econometrics, and spatial analysis. Through problem sets and independent projects, students will develop the computational and statistical frameworks necessary to evaluate policy impacts, quantify emissions, and drive decision-making toward sustainable and carbon-neutral futures.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Understand the core concepts in data science and carbon neutrality studies.
- 2.
  Obtain a framework for evaluating the contributions, limitations, and the state-of-the-science on big data in carbon neutrality research.
- 3.
  Apply some of the tools and technologies that are used to analyze big data in empirical research.
- 4.
  Develop advanced data wrangling and visualization, and communication skills.
- 5.
  Collect and analyze the data of interest that can provide meaningful policy implications.
CNCC 5140
Research Design and Empirical Methods of Interdisciplinary Inquiry
[3 Credit(s)]
Description
This course introduces the fundamentals of research design in interdisciplinary studies. We start by examining how natural and social scientists formulate puzzles and questions, and discussing the processes of theorization, concept formation and measurement. We then study how researchers test claims using qualitative and quantitative methods. Such methods include description, controlled comparisons, and experiments. We conclude with a discussion of the role of big data and AI in future research.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Gain an appreciation of the fundamentals of scientific research design and methods.
- 2.
  Understand the strengths and weaknesses of various qualitative and quantitative research methods.
- 3.
  Systematically evaluate academic works based on the research design.
- 4.
  Independently design, develop and conduct scientific research.
- 5.
  Master and apply cutting-edge methodologies in academic research.
CNCC 5150
Qualitative Research for Climate Policy
[3 Credit(s)]
Description
Climate policy is all about defining problems, which can be achieved through qualitative research training. This course provides entry level experience, equipping students with basic qualitative research skills by investigating real-world challenges in climate policy intertwined with social contexts. Students will learn to design research projects, collect data, conduct interviews, analyze fieldwork data, generate insights, communicate their findings in written and oral formats, and evaluate qualitative research. Throughout the course, students apply their research competencies to policy questions and social challenges relevant to their own interests, ensuring immediate practical value in professional and academic contexts. Students are encouraged to contribute their own topics to class discussions and develop their own methodological perspectives.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Explore key qualitative research methodologies and techniques applicable to climate policy.
- 2.
  Select and implement appropriate methodological strategies to address diverse research questions.
- 3.
  Effectively analyze, interpret, and present findings from qualitative research.
- 4.
  Explore the underlying philosophical perspectives and methodological principles that shape qualitative research.
CNCC 5200
Climate Change: Science and Governance
[3 Credit(s)]
Co-list with
IPEN 5400
Exclusion(s)
IPEN 5400
Description
This course prepares students to acquire the basic knowledge of climate change, which sits on the intersection of science and governance. It will review some of the scientific facts of climate change and contrast the scientific research findings with climate governance status. Case study on transforming to a low carbon society will be conducted in later part of the course. Aspects to consider include both scientific support and governance complexity of the low carbon city idea. Students are expected to build their own analysis of the climate change issue at the end of the course.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Define climate change issue.
- 2.
  Calculate the temperature rise from the human-being activities.
- 3.
  Select the theories that could be used to understand the governance of climate change.
- 4.
  Identify problems, create solutions, innovate and improve current practices.
- 5.
  Show their finding about a certain climate change problem.
- 6.
  Use the basic framework to analyze a certain regional climate change issue.
CNCC 5300
Policy and Technology for Carbon Neutrality
[3 Credit(s)]
Co-list with
IPEN 5900
Exclusion(s)
IPEN 5900
Description
All industries in China are actively taking effective actions to develop new and clean technologies in order to achieve the carbon peak and neutrality goal of shouldering the common destiny of human beings. This course examines the scientific, technological, and policy approaches that China and the rest of the world can take to achieve carbon peak and carbon neutrality.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Understand the technologies for carbon neutrality.
- 2.
  Assess carbon neutral development and the existing policy gap.
- 3.
  Define the trend and problems of carbon neutral technologies.
- 4.
  Demonstrate an understanding of the risks, uncertainty and injustice hidden behind different technologies.
- 5.
  Address innovation pathways for carbon neutral technologies.
CNCC 5400
Environmental Economics and Sustainable Development
[3 Credit(s)]
Co-list with
IPEN 5820
Exclusion(s)
IPEN 5820
Description
This is a graduate-level interdisciplinary course focusing on the economics of environmental and sustainable development problems and the solutions to those problems. Students will learn to use tools from applied economics and relevant disciplines to better understand and evaluate a series of current policy questions, such as air and water pollution, climate change, environmental amenities, agricultural production, ecosystem services, and biodiversity.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Understand the core economic concepts such as externalities, moral hazard, social cost, willingness to pay, time value of money (discount rates), and efficiency.
- 2.
  Identify market failures and their causes, describe how they can result in inefficient equilibria, and interpret their effects across a range of settings.
- 3.
  Obtain hands-on experience with some of the tools and technologies that are used to analyze policy problems related to environmental protection and sustainable development.
- 4.
  Develop advanced data wrangling and visualization, and communication skills.
- 5.
  Collect and analyze the data of interest that can provide meaningful policy implications.
- 6.
  Develop and present a research project in groups.
CNCC 5500
Carbon Capture and Removal Technologies
[3 Credit(s)]
Description
This course is designed for students who are interested in advancing their knowledge and research skills in the area of carbon capture and storage (CCS) and cleaner fossil energy. The course will cover the latest advances in CCS and cleaner fossil energy technologies, policies, and practices, and their potential to mitigate climate change and promote sustainable energy development. Throughout the course, students will engage in critical analysis of the scientific literature, case studies, and policy debates related to CCS and cleaner fossil energy. They will also have the opportunity to develop their research skills by conducting independent research on a topic related to CCS and cleaner fossil energy, and presenting their findings to the class.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Analyze and evaluate the scientific and technical principles underlying carbon capture, utilization and removal (CCUR) technologies, demonstrating an advanced understanding of the complexities and challenges in the field.
- 2.
  Design and conduct original research in the area of carbon capture and removal technologies, applying advanced research methodologies and experimental techniques to address key knowledge gaps and contribute to the advancement of the field.
- 3.
  Synthesize and critically assess the economic, environmental and social implications of carbon capture and removal technologies, and propose innovative strategies to optimize the efficiency, sustainability, and feasibility of CCUR processes.
- 4.
  Evaluate and compare different carbon capture and removal technologies, and demonstrate the ability to propose and develop novel solutions to enhance the performance, scalability, and integration of CCUR technologies.
- 5.
  Communicate research findings and proposals effectively through scholarly publications, presentations, and scientific disclosure, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge and the advancement of understanding in the field of carbon capture and removal technologies.
CNCC 5600
Energy Economics and Policy
[3 Credit(s)]
Co-list with
IPEN 5330
Exclusion(s)
IPEN 5330
Description
This course provides an in-depth examination of the economics and policy issues surrounding energy. Topics include energy demand and supply, market structures, renewable energy technologies, fossil fuels, energy security, climate change, transportation, innovation, and policy analysis. Students will also participate in a research project to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Identify economic and policy issues concerning energy production, consumption, and market dynamics.
- 2.
  Compare different types of energy sources in terms of their impacts on the environment, society, and the economy.
- 3.
  Evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of different energy policy instruments.
- 4.
  Develop and propose policy solutions to address energy challenges by undertaking research projects.
- 5.
  Communicate complex energy concepts, issues, and solutions effectively through oral and written presentations to diverse audiences, such as policymakers, industry leaders, and the general public.
CNCC 5700
Energy Systems and Policy
[3 Credit(s)]
Co-list with
IPEN 5350
Exclusion(s)
IPEN 5350
Description
This course explores the challenges associated with climate change, energy and environmental policies from multiple perspectives, disciplines and scales. Students will examine the evolving science and policy of climate change, observe the conflicts between energy companies and interest groups in China, discuss technology innovations and its impact on reducing greenhouse gases emission.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Understand the interaction between politics and economics, especially in a Chinese context.
- 2.
  Understand the economic dimension of foreign policy and international politics regarding energy and environmental issues.
- 3.
  Understand the interaction between mitigation, energy efficiency and technology innovation.
- 4.
  Integrate different stakeholder perspectives, disciplines, scales and geographic contexts in evaluating China’s mitigation efforts, energy and environmental policies.
- 5.
  Understand China’s developmental approach and the shift from a GDP-orientation to a more balanced development.
- 6.
  Develop both oral and written communication skills to facilitate systematic analysis and effective consideration of these complex issues.
CNCC 5800
Economic and Policy Analysis for Climate Risks
[3 Credit(s)]
Co-list with
IPEN 5360
Exclusion(s)
IPEN 5360
Description
Climate change poses systemic risks to our economy and society. This course provides students with the analytical framework to understand, quantify, and manage climate-related risks. We will explore both physical risks from a changing climate and transition risks arising from the shift to a low-carbon economy. Students will gain hands-on experience with empirical assessment and scenario analysis. Through individual assignments and a collaborative project, students will develop the skills to critically examine the economic and social trade-offs involved in addressing complex climate change challenges.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Understand different types of climate risks.
- 2.
  Identify climate risk management strategies for varying stakeholders.
- 3.
  Analyze the impact of climate change on socio-economic systems using analytical tools.
- 4.
  Examine specific climate risks from a policy and economic evaluation perspective.
- 5.
  Develop both oral and written skills to effectively communicate climate risk issues to stakeholders.
CNCC 5820
Greenhouse Gas Emission Quantification
[3 Credit(s)]
Previous Course Code(s)
IPEN 6100F
Description
This course introduces the scientific principles and practical methods for quantifying greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions using both bottom-up and top-down approaches. Through lectures, readings, and data analysis exercises, students will develop skills to interpret GHG fluxes, evaluate methodological strengths and limitations, and integrate complementary approaches for robust emission assessments. The course emphasizes both theoretical foundations and up-to-date research literature.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Explain the key processes controlling the sources and sinks of CO₂, CH₄, and N₂O.
- 2.
  Apply both bottom-up and top-down techniques to quantify GHG emissions and assess their uncertainties.
- 3.
  Integrate multiple datasets and methods to evaluate emission patterns and inform climate mitigation strategies.
CNCC 5830
Principles of Zero Carbon Economy
[3 Credit(s)]
Description
This course provides an overall structural understanding of an economy that is transformed from a fossil-fuelbased, carbon-intensive system into a renewable-energy-based, zero-carbon one. Students will learn the principles and the processes of zero-carbon transformation, and investigate into how and whether a zero-carbon economy is made operational for sustainability and prosperity.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Understand how an economy is based and operated by an energy related production chain system.
- 2.
  Understand the principles of transition away from fossil fuels.
- 3.
  Understand the geo-economic and geopolitical implications of zero carbon transformation.
- 4.
  Establish the analytical skills for zero carbonization technologies and policies.
- 5.
  Build up capacities for providing solutions to zero carbon transformation.
- 6.
  Develop both oral and written communication skills to facilitate systematic analysis and effective consideration of these complex issues.
CNCC 5840
Economic Analysis of Cities and the Environment
[3 Credit(s)]
Co-list with
UGOD 5080
Exclusion(s)
UGOD 5080
Background
Knowledge in basic statistics
Description
This interdisciplinary course will provide students a systematic framework of the interplay between urban growth and the environment from economic perspectives. By walking them through the state-of-the-art research in urban and environmental economic studies from both developing and developed countries, it will familiarize students with popular empirical strategies in applied economics and relevant fields to solve the most pressing environmental challenges accompanied with fast-urbanized cities. By the end of the class, students will be equipped with toolkits to evaluate policy questions in transportation, pollution and health, climate change, energy transition, housing market, and environmental justice.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Improve critical, innovative, and independent economic thinking skills.
- 2.
  Compare and contrast the state-of-the-art research in urban and environmental studies.
- 3.
  Learn the econometric approaches commonly used in empirical studies.
- 4.
  Understand and critically assess the urban and environmental challenges especially in China.
- 5.
  Expand their toolkits on urban and environmental policy evaluation.
- 6.
  Effectively conduct oral, written, and visual communication.
CNCC 6000
Independent Study
[1-3 Credit(s)]
Description
Independent study in a designated subject under direct guidance of a faculty member to provide students theadvanced knowledge and research skill sets on carbon neutrality and climate change related topics. Required readings, tutorial discussions, and submission of report(s) will be used for assessment. The course may be repeated for credit if different topics are studied. Graded P or F.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and skills in the selected topics related to Carbon Neutrality and Climate Change.
- 2.
  Apply an interdisciplinary approach in examining the selected topics.
- 3.
  Critically evaluate different aspects of the selected topics.
- 4.
  Communicate findings effectively in written reports.
CNCC 6100
Special Topics in Carbon Neutrality and Climate Change
[1-3 Credit(s)]
Description
This course covers emerging topics of Carbon Neutrality and Climate Change concerns not covered in the present curriculum. The course aims to provide students with advanced knowledge and research skill sets on a Carbon Neutrality and Climate Change topic. Required readings, tutorial discussions, and submission of report(s) will be used for assessment. The course may be repeated for credit if different topics are studied. May be graded by letter or P/F for different offerings.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Demonstrate understanding of the scientific, economic and social dimensions of specific topics in Carbon Neutrality and Climate Change.
- 2.
  Design and conduct research initiatives using appropriate methodologies to address specific topics in Carbon Neutrality and Climate Change.
- 3.
  Communicate specialized knowledge and research findings of the chosen topics effectively to academic, professional and public audiences.
- 4.
  Develop interdisciplinary solutions that address practical challenges in climate change mitigation and carbon neutrality related to the chosen topics.
CNCC 6900
CNCC Program Seminar I
[1 Credit(s)]
Description
This course is expected to expose the RPg students to the current carbon neutrality and climate change research and development, and provide them with opportunities to make social contacts with the speakers in environmental and climate change communities. This course will be an essential part of training for our RPg students. Graded P or F.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Develop cutting-edge knowledge about carbon neutrality and climate change (CNCC).
- 2.
  Solve a certain CNCC problem.
- 3.
  Exemplify the basic framework to analyze a CNCC issue.
CNCC 6910
CNCC Program Seminar II
[1 Credit(s)]
Description
This course is expected to expose the RPg students to the current carbon neutrality and climate change research and development, and provide them with opportunities to make social contacts with the speakers inenvironmental and climate change communities. This course will be an essential part of training for our RPg students. Seminar II is an extension of Seminar I. While the overall design of the seminar course looks essentially the same, topics covered and guests invited will be differentiated. Graded P or F.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Develop cutting-edge knowledge about carbon neutrality and climate change (CNCC).
- 2.
  Solve a certain CNCC problem.
- 3.
  Exemplify the basic framework to analyze a CNCC issue.
CNCC 6990
MPhil Thesis Research
[0 Credit(s)]
Description
Master's thesis research supervised by supervisors from different disciplines. A successful defense of the thesis leads to the grade Pass. No course credit is assigned.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Design, develop and conduct cross-disciplinary research in carbon neutrality and climate change.
- 2.
  Communicate research findings effectively in written and oral presentations.
CNCC 7990
Doctoral Thesis Research
[0 Credit(s)]
Description
Original and independent doctoral thesis research supervised by supervisors from different disciplines. A successful defense of the thesis leads to the grade Pass. No course credit is assigned.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Design, develop and conduct cross-disciplinary research in carbon neutrality and climate change.
- 2.
  Communicate research findings effectively in written and oral presentations.

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