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Barcelona Courses – Authentica https://authentica.com Enriching Global Immersions Fri, 24 Jul 2026 07:14:33 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1 https://authentica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/cropped-Untitled-design-3-32x32.png Barcelona Courses – Authentica https://authentica.com 32 32 Sustainable Development in Context https://authentica.com/locations/study-abroad-in-europe/study-abroad-in-barcelona/barcelona-courses/sustainable-development-in-context/ Tue, 19 May 2026 12:28:33 +0000 https://authentica.com/?post_type=barcelona-courses&p=30133
Barcelona, Spain — host city for the Sustainable Development in Context course Barcelona, Spain · A Living Classroom for the SDGs
Development Studies Multi-Program Course

Sustainable Development in Context

⏱ Total Hours 45
🎓 Credits 3
📍 Location Barcelona, Spain
✓ Prerequisites None
🌍
Primary Discipline
Development Studies
Suggested Cross Listings Environmental Studies, International Relations, Political Science
Total Hours 45
Credits 3
Prerequisites / Requirements None
Course Description

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) offer a roadmap for a global future that promotes human flourishing and healthy ecosystems. They are transdisciplinary in nature, spanning human rights, public health, education, gender, economics, energy, urban design, and ecology. Though the SDGs are global in their aim and vision, how they are engaged and achieved falls to individual nations and multi-national blocs such as the European Union. How are different macro-regions and countries seeking to uphold and advance the UN SDGs? Where is there innovation, success, and real progress? What are the challenges and obstacles—globally, regionally, and nationally? Using the local context as a living classroom and case study, this course examines the aspirations and realities embedded in the UN SDGs. Through lectures, field visits, and project work, students engage deeply with both theoretical frameworks and practical applications related to sustainable development, developing their analytical, research, and practical problem-solving skills and preparing themselves to engage effectively with the global sustainability agenda.

UN Sustainable Development Goals Wheel
Aligned with all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals

This course examines the full breadth of the 2030 Agenda — touching on every one of the 17 SDGs, from No Poverty (SDG 1) and Climate Action (SDG 13) to Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). Barcelona and the wider European Union serve as a living case study for how these interconnected goals are pursued in practice.

Touches all 17 SDGs
SDG 1: No Poverty SDG 2: Zero Hunger SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being SDG 4: Quality Education SDG 5: Gender Equality SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production SDG 13: Climate Action SDG 14: Life Below Water SDG 15: Life on Land SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Key Topics
UN SDG framework, history, and global governance Interconnectedness of the 17 SDGs SDG implementation in the European Union Climate change, migration, and global health Innovation and partnerships for sustainability Equity, justice, and intergenerational responsibility Stakeholder roles: governments, NGOs, private sector, civil society SDG indicators, data, and measurement Advocacy and communication for SDG awareness Barcelona and Spain as a living case study
Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1
Identify and explain the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), their historical context, and the key principles behind the global sustainability agenda.
Assessment: Quiz on SDG framework and history.
2
Evaluate the interconnectedness of the SDGs, analyzing how progress on one goal impacts others (e.g., climate action's role in eradicating poverty).
Assessment: Case study analyzing interdependencies of SDGs in the Spanish context.
3
Assess the effectiveness of current SDG-related policies and initiatives at national and regional levels, identifying strengths, shortcomings, challenges, and opportunities.
Assessment: Research paper critically evaluating a national policy related to SDGs.
4
Design innovative, cross-sectoral solutions that address one or more SDGs, considering technological, social, and environmental factors.
Assessment: Group project proposing an innovative solution to an SDG challenge in the EU.
5
Formulate a compelling advocacy campaign to raise awareness and drive action for the SDGs, utilizing media, partnerships, and global frameworks.
Assessment: Presentation and written proposal for a campaign promoting SDG awareness and engagement.
Course Format and Assessment Methods
20%
Class Discussions and Debates
Demonstrated engagement with assigned readings. Thoughtful contributions to class and Canvas discussions.
All LOs
10%
Quiz
Demonstrated understanding of SDG framework and history.
LO 1
20%
Research Paper
A 10–12-page critical analysis of one or several specific SDGs as they relate to the European Union. Though not required, comparison with the U.S. or other macro-regions is welcome.
LO 3
10%
Case Study
A 3-page analysis of interconnectedness and interdependencies of SDGs in the European Union.
LO 2
20%
Field Studies
Using class field visits, identify and analyze two examples (10% each) of how theory intersects with real-world situations.
LO 3
20%
Group Project and Presentation
Collaborative research on an SDG-related issue, solutions, and innovations (10%), and compelling articulation of findings with practical, action-oriented recommendations (10%).
LO 4, 5
Course Outline
1
Foundational Understanding of the SDGsCore principles, history, and framework of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their significance in global governance.
2
Linking SDGs to Global ChallengesInterconnectedness of the 17 SDGs and how addressing one goal often impacts others, with specific focus on cross-cutting issues such as poverty, inequality, climate change, migration, and war.
3
Social, Economic, and Environmental Dimensions of SustainabilitySocial, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainability and strategies for balancing these three pillars in the context of the SDGs.
4
Sustainable Development in PracticeEffectiveness of current policies, programs, and initiatives designed to advance the SDGs in the European Union (e.g., education, health, environment, gender equality).
5
Critical Evaluation of SDG Indicators and MeasurementMethodologies and challenges associated with measuring progress toward achieving the SDGs using indicators, data collection, and reporting mechanisms (e.g., UN Global Sustainable Development Report).
6
Role of Stakeholders in SDG AchievementRoles and responsibilities of key stakeholders—including governments, international organizations, private sector, NGOs, civil society, and individuals—in achieving the SDGs.
7
Ethics, Equity, and Justice in Achieving the SDGsEthical considerations involved in pursuing sustainable development, focusing on issues of equity, justice, and intergenerational responsibility.
8
Innovative Solutions for SDG ImplementationInnovative technologies, strategies, and partnerships that can accelerate progress toward achieving the SDGs, with particular attention to "leaving no one behind."
9
Local and Global Partnerships for SDGsThe role of global partnerships and local networks in achieving the SDGs, the challenges and opportunities of international cooperation, multi-stakeholder alliances, and local grassroots movements.
10
Political Economy of the SDGsThe political economy surrounding the SDGs, including the influence of international trade, economic policies, and corporate practices on the achievement of sustainable development objectives.
11
Climate Change and the SDGsLinks between climate change and the SDGs, particularly SDG 13 (climate action), and analyze the impacts of climate change on poverty, migration, and global health.
12
Advocacy and Communication for SDG AwarenessHow to develop effective advocacy strategies to raise awareness of the SDGs and mobilize action among different stakeholders, utilizing communication tools such as social media, campaigns, and public policy initiatives.
13
Global Health and SDG 3The relationship between SDG 3 (good health and well-being) and other SDGs, particularly the role of health systems in achieving sustainable development outcomes.
14
Cultural and Social Impacts of the SDGsHow the SDGs interact with local cultural values, social norms, and practices, and the challenges and opportunities of achieving sustainability in diverse cultural contexts.
Field Visits and Guest Speakers
Visits to major art museums, heritage institutions, and conservation laboratories to observe restoration practices
Guest lecture by an art conservator, curator, or heritage policy expert
Workshop on sustainability in museum and heritage management
Panel discussion on conservation ethics and cultural preservation in a global context
Seminar with heritage professionals exploring the intersection of tourism, authenticity, and accessibility
Using the city as a classroom is an integral element of education abroad, and this course will include several field visits, as well as assignments that prompt students to engage actively with their host context. Field visits vary across terms, but examples include those listed above.
Readings & Resources
Books Films and Recordings Articles and Reports
Barbier, Edward B. 2019. The Economics of Development and the Environment. Cheltenham, UK: Edward Elgar Publishing.
Caballero, Paula, and Patti Londoño. 2022. Redefining Development: The Extraordinary Genesis of Sustainable Development Goals. Boulder, CO: Lynne Rienner Publishers.
Chowdhury, G. G., and Sudatta Chowdhury. 2024. Information for Sustainable Development: Technology, People, and Society. London: Facet Publishing.
Khan, Shabir, and Rajneesh Narula. 2020. Rethinking Development: A Policy Approach to Achieving the SDGs. London: Routledge.
Pistoletto, Michelangelo. 2016. Hominitheism and Demopraxy.
Sachs, Jeffrey D. 2015. The Age of Sustainable Development. New York: Columbia University Press.
Steiner, G., ed. 2019. The Business of Sustainability: Building a Global Green Economy. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Brown, Nicolas. 2024. Blue Carbon: Nature's Hidden Power. Documentary.
Blue Marine Foundation. 2021. Blue Carbon – A New Conservation Frontier? Building Ambition for COP26. Conference Recording, June 9, 2022. YouTube Video.
Rossi, Gianfranco. 2016. Fuocoammare [Fire at Sea]. Golden Bear Award, Berlin International Film Festival.
Rech, Julia, and Ulf Röller. 2024. The European Dream – A Continent Is Sealing Itself Off. Video.
European Commission. 2019. Green Deal.
European Union. n.d. Next Generation EU.
IPCC. 2024. The Global Impact of Climate Change on Sustainable Development. Special report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
United Nations DP. 2023. Localizing the SDGs: Community-Level Perspectives on Achieving Sustainable Development. United Nations Development Programme.
United Nations GP. 2024. Sustainable Development Goals: The Role of Business in Achieving the SDGs. UN Global Compact.
United Nations SDGs Knowledge Platform. n.d.
United Nations. 2016. Mediterranean Strategy for Sustainable Development.
United Nations. 2015. Transforming Our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. UN Resolution, September 15, 2015.
United Nations DESA. 2024. The Sustainable Development Goals Report. Annual report by United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs.
Agyemang, Kofi, et al. 2020. "Sustainable Development Goals: A Critical Approach." Springer.
Bebbington, A., et al. 2019. "Sustainable Development Goals: A Critical Approach to Business and Industry." Journal of Business Ethics.
Cohen, M. J., and M. Bradshaw. 2020. "Sustainability in the Global Development Agenda: Critical Insights into the SDGs." Global Environmental Politics.
Falk, Richard. 2017. "Human Rights and the SDGs: A Global Perspective." Human Rights Quarterly.
Hickel, Jason. 2017. The Divide: A Brief Guide to Global Inequality and Its Solutions. New York: Penguin Random House.
Rockström, Johan, et al. 2009. "A Safe Operating Space for Humanity." Nature.
Scott, Matthew. 2023. "Adapting to Climate-related Human Mobility into Europe: Between Protection Agenda and the Deterrence Paradigm, or Beyond." European Journal of Migration and Law, March 7.
]]> Innovation in Action: Project-Based Learning https://authentica.com/locations/study-abroad-in-europe/study-abroad-in-barcelona/barcelona-courses/innovation-in-action-project-based-learning/ Tue, 19 May 2026 12:27:25 +0000 https://authentica.com/?post_type=barcelona-courses&p=30134
Barcelona, Spain — host city for the Innovation in Action: Project-Based Learning course Barcelona, Spain · Project-Based Learning in a Global Context
Entrepreneurship Multi-Program Course

Innovation in Action: Project-Based Learning

⏱ Total Hours 45
🎓 Credits 3
📍 Location Barcelona, Spain
✓ Prerequisites None
💡
Primary Discipline
Entrepreneurship
Suggested Cross Listings Business, International Studies
Total Hours 45
Credits 3
Prerequisites / Requirements None
Course Description

Innovation in Action: Project-Based Learning (PBL) is a hands-on course designed to develop NACE Competencies in a global context: exploring the emerging field of social entrepreneurship and innovation while fostering creativity, critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. This course will provide a comprehensive overview of how innovation drives sustainable and impactful solutions to social and environmental problems. Through real-world, team-based projects that cultivate leadership, collaboration, communication, and professionalism, students engage with innovation in three essential contexts: 1) public, private, and citizen sectors, 2) social enterprises, and 3) social transformation across entire systems. Students will have the opportunity to apply theories, methodologies, and competencies learned through prior coursework and their experience abroad, developing practical solutions that foster social change on local, national, and international levels.

The European context offers fertile ground for studying innovation. Across the continent, a deep-rooted tradition of craftsmanship, design, and cooperative enterprise continues to intersect with cutting-edge advances in technology, sustainability, and creative industries. Europe remains a global leader in sectors such as fashion, renewable energy, technology, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, all while prioritizing human-centered design and social impact.

With a strong legacy of civic engagement and cross-border collaboration, the European Union has cultivated one of the world's most vibrant social and solidarity economies—supported by cooperatives, foundations, and social enterprises that collectively generate significant contributions to the region's GDP. Within these diverse local, national, and regional contexts, students explore how tradition and innovation coexist and mutually reinforce one another, gaining the skills and perspectives necessary to drive sustainable transformation in the global workforce.

UN Sustainable Development Goals Wheel
Aligned with 5 key UN Sustainable Development Goals

This course advances NACE-aligned career competencies and social entrepreneurship — directly engaging SDG 4 (Quality Education) through experiential learning, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through social enterprise, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through design thinking and prototyping, SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) via sustainable design, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through cross-sector collaboration.

5 Key SDGs Addressed
SDG 4: Quality Education SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Key Topics
Social entrepreneurship and innovation NACE competencies in a global context Design thinking and lean startup methodology Systems thinking and problem framing Cross-cultural teamwork and communication Rapid prototyping and user feedback Market research and feasibility studies Scaling, sustainability, and impact measurement Europe's social and solidarity economy Barcelona's innovation ecosystem
Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1
Understand and apply the principles of social entrepreneurship, examining how innovation creates solutions to social and environmental challenges.
Assessment: Team project, individual reflection journal, and final report.
2
Demonstrate proficiency in key NACE competencies in a global context.
Assessment: Peer evaluations and individual reflection journal.
3
Apply principles of design thinking, lean startup, and systems thinking to real-world problems, creating innovative solutions that promote social and environmental impact.
Assessment: Team project milestones and prototypes.
4
Present findings and solutions through professional-level reports, presentations, and prototypes.
Assessment: Final presentation and report.
5
Reflect critically on the role of innovation in society and its potential for driving change.
Assessment: Individual reflection journal and site visit reflections.
Course Format and Assessment Methods
20%
Participation, Preparation, and Discussion
Active attendance, demonstrated engagement with assigned readings, and thoughtful contributions to class discussions and group activities.
All LOs
40%
Team Project
Collaborative development of an innovative project throughout the term, requiring progress reports and presentations at key milestones. Includes Proposal (10%), Mid-Term Presentation (10%), and Final Presentation and Report (20%). Engagement with NACE competencies is included in the assessment.
LO 1, 2, 3, 4
20%
Individual Reflection Journal
Ongoing journal documenting personal learning, team dynamics, challenges, and growth. Students critically connect their experiences to NACE competencies and reflect on professional skill development.
LO 2, 5
20%
Site Visit Reflections
Two reports (10% each) connecting observations from field visits to course content, demonstrating applied understanding of innovation in practice.
LO 3, 4, 5
Course Outline
1
Introduction to Innovation & Project-Based LearningOverview of Innovation in Action; the role of project-based learning in the development of creative solutions; introduction to design thinking and project management tools.
2
Understanding and Applying the NACE Competencies in a Global ContextOverview of NACE Competencies and why they matter; intercultural communication and navigating difference.
3
Identifying Problems and Understanding StakeholdersProblem scoping and needs assessment; understanding user and stakeholder perspectives; conducting user interviews and surveys.
4
Idea Generation & BrainstormingTechniques for creative ideation (brainstorming, mind mapping); evaluation of potential solutions and refinement; introduction to rapid prototyping.
5
Prototyping & IterationDesign and development of prototypes (physical, digital, or service-based); lean startup methodology and MVP (Minimum Viable Product); user feedback and iteration.
6
Team Collaboration & CommunicationEffective teamwork and conflict resolution; tools for project management (Trello, Asana, Slack); presentation skills for pitching ideas and progress.
7
Market Research & TestingConducting market analysis and feasibility studies; testing prototypes in real-world environments; collecting data and analyzing feedback.
8
Scaling and ImplementationStrategies for scaling a project or product; considering sustainability, scalability, and impact; cost analysis and budgeting.
9
Final Project DeliveryPreparing the final project report and presentation; communicating project findings to stakeholders and potential investors; peer and self-assessment.
Field Visits and Guest Speakers
Site visits to innovation hubs, startups, NGOs, and social enterprises that integrate sustainability and social impact
Guest lectures by entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovation experts
Workshops on design thinking, creative leadership, and impact measurement
Field experiences include site visits to innovation hubs, startups, NGOs, and social enterprises across Barcelona and Catalonia. Class field visits and guest lectures are considered required academic components of the course, and count towards students' participation and engagement grade.
Readings & Resources
Books Films and Recordings Articles and Reports
Brown, T. Change by Design: How Design Thinking Creates New Alternatives for Business and Society. HarperBusiness, 2009.
Brynjolfsson, Erik, and Andrew McAfee. The Second Machine Age: Work, Progress, and Prosperity in a Time of Brilliant Technologies. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2014.
Christensen, Clayton M. The Innovator's Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail. Boston: Harvard Business Review Press, 1997.
Christensen, Clayton M., and Michael E. Raynor. The Innovator's Solution: Creating and Sustaining Successful Growth. Boston: Harvard Business Review Press, 2003.
Harrison, R., and L. Green. Radical Social Innovation: An Emerging Field of Social Change. Springer, 2024.
Hart, Stuart L., and M. A. Sharma. The New Frontiers of Social Innovation: Ideas, Strategies, and Technologies for a Better World. Routledge, 2022.
Kahneman, Daniel. Thinking, Fast and Slow. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2011.
Lencioni, Patrick. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2002.
Meyer, Erin. The Culture Map: Breaking Through the Invisible Boundaries of Global Business. New York: PublicAffairs, 2014.
Osterwalder, A., and Y. Pigneur. Business Model Generation: A Handbook for Visionaries, Game Changers, and Challengers. Wiley, 2020.
Ries, Eric. The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses. Crown Business, 2011.
Sinek, Simon. Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't. New York: Portfolio, 2014.
Thomas, David C., and Kerr C. Inkson. Cultural Intelligence: Surviving and Thriving in the Global Village. 2nd ed. San Francisco: Berrett-Koehler Publishers, 2009.
Stanford eCorner. 2015. "The Lean Startup Methodology in Action." YouTube video, 15:29.
Stanford Graduate School of Business. 2017. "Design Thinking: How to Start Innovating." YouTube video, 6:09.
TEDx Talks. 2017. "Radical Social Innovation: What It Is and Why It Matters." YouTube video, 14:38.
"Career Competencies: Articulating Transferable Skills Through the Global Experience." My World Abroad. YouTube video.
Javidan, Mansour, David M. Teagarden, and Mary Teagarden. 2012. "Exploring the Intersection of Global Mindset and Global Leadership." Journal of World Business.
Kolk, A., and R. van Tulder. 2019. "Integrating Sustainable Development Goals into Business Strategy." Journal of Business Ethics.
Steers, Richard M., Carlos J. Sanchez-Runde, and Luciara Nardon. 2022. "Understanding and Managing Cross-Cultural Teams in a Global Context." International Journal of Cross-Cultural Management.
Design Thinking for Educators. "Design Thinking for Educators." designthinkingforeducators.com
Harvard Business Review. "Building a Global Leadership Pipeline." hbr.org
NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers). "Global Competencies." naceweb.org
World Economic Forum. "The 10 Skills You Need to Thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution." weforum.org
]]> Spanish Language https://authentica.com/locations/study-abroad-in-europe/study-abroad-in-barcelona/barcelona-courses/spanish-language/ Tue, 19 May 2026 12:26:42 +0000 https://authentica.com/?post_type=barcelona-courses&p=30189
Barcelona, Spain — host city for the Spanish Language course Barcelona, Spain · Barcelona, Spain · Beginners Welcome — ¡Bienvenidos!
Spanish Language Elective

Spanish Language

⏱ Total Hours 45
🎓 Credits 3
📍 Location Barcelona, Spain
✓ Prerequisites None
🇪🇸
Primary Discipline
Spanish Language
Suggested Cross Listings Spanish Studies, European Studies, Cultural Studies
Total Hours 45
Credits 3
Prerequisites / Requirements None
Course Description

The course provides a formative program, and it is designed for students with no prior experience of Spanish Language. The teacher will explain the fundamental knowledge of grammar, phonetics, morphology and syntax using a functional situational approach (to learn a rule beginning from its location in a text or context). A part of the lesson will be dedicated to real situation exercises, grammar drills, consolidation of the material, deepening of concepts through readings, conversations, role games and listening exercises to correct pronunciation.

UN Sustainable Development Goals Wheel
Language as a foundation for global citizenship

Multilingual competence is a quiet but powerful enabler of the 2030 Agenda. This course supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by developing communicative literacy and lifelong-learning skills, SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by giving students the linguistic tools to engage authentically with their host community, SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities & Communities) through immersion in Barcelona's everyday life, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through cross-cultural exchange.

4 Key SDGs Addressed
SDG 4: Quality Education SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Key Topics
Understand and use familiar expressions of daily events Communicate clear messages in standard language on familiar topics Introduce yourself and others Talk about personal interests and everyday activities Interact with people in simple situations (e.g., café, restaurant) Manage daily life using basic communication skills
Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1
Recognize and use essential Spanish vocabulary and grammar for daily communication.
Assessment: Quizzes, Midterm Exam, and Final Exam.
2
Engage in basic spoken interactions in everyday situations with appropriate pronunciation.
Assessment: Oral Presentations and Group Project.
3
Understand and respond to simple spoken and written texts in Spanish.
Assessment: Homework Assignments and Quizzes.
4
Demonstrate comprehension and production of short dialogues related to personal and social contexts.
Assessment: Oral Presentations, Midterm Exam, and Final Exam.
5
Apply language skills in authentic community settings such as cafés, markets, and cultural excursions.
Assessment: Group Project and Final Exam.
Course Format and Assessment Methods
20%
Engagement and Participation
Active participation in classroom discussions, role plays, and pronunciation exercises. Students demonstrate growing confidence in basic conversational Spanish and intercultural awareness.
LOs 1, 2, 5
10%
Homework Assignments
Regular completion of workbook exercises and online activities reinforcing grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure.
LOs 1, 3, 4
10%
Quizzes
Two written or oral quizzes assessing grammar comprehension, vocabulary retention, and pronunciation accuracy.
LOs 1, 2, 3
15%
Oral Presentations
Short in-class presentations introducing oneself, describing personal interests, or role-playing real-life scenarios such as ordering food or making travel plans.
LOs 2, 4, 5
15%
Group Project
Collaborative project creating a short video or skit applying learned vocabulary and expressions to daily situations.
LOs 2, 4, 5
15%
Midterm Exam
Combination of oral and written exercises testing comprehension of vocabulary, grammar, and listening skills.
LOs 1, 2, 3, 4
15%
Final Exam
Cumulative oral and written exam demonstrating mastery of beginner-level Spanish and ability to communicate in culturally appropriate ways.
LOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Course Outline
1
Introduction to Spanish Language and PronunciationSpanish alphabet, sounds, greetings, and introductions.
2
Numbers, Dates, and NationalitiesExpressing personal information, basic question words, and country origins.
3
Daily Life VocabularyTalking about family, hobbies, and routine activities using regular verbs.
4
Café and Restaurant ConversationsOrdering food and drinks, using polite expressions, and handling daily transactions.
5
Describing People and PlacesAdjectives, gender and number agreement, physical appearance, and personality.
6
Around the CityVocabulary for transportation, shops, directions, and urban landmarks.
7
Cultural Norms in CommunicationExploring gestures, etiquette, and customs in Spanish-speaking contexts.
8
Grammar Foundations IPresent tense of common verbs (ser, estar, tener, ir) and simple sentence construction.
9
Midterm Review and Oral PracticeFocused activities on comprehension and dialogue.
10
Expressing Likes, Dislikes, and PreferencesUsing gustar and related verbs for everyday interactions.
11
Grammar Foundations IIArticles, prepositions, possessive adjectives, and reflexive verbs.
12
Weather, Time, and ActivitiesDescribing weather, seasons, and making simple plans.
13
Cultural Exploration through Music and FilmListening and comprehension exercises using authentic materials.
14
Preparing for Real-Life InteractionsConversation practice in travel, shopping, and social scenarios.
15
Final Review and Oral ExamIntegration of language skills and cultural reflection.
Field Visits and Guest Speakers
Out-of-class activities to practice the language (e.g., grocery shopping, ordering food, visiting local markets, using public transportation)
Conversation exchanges with native Spanish speakers for informal language immersion
Visit to a local cultural center, museum, or community event featuring Spanish-language programs
Guest workshop led by a local educator or artist introducing regional dialects or cultural expressions
Guided market activity focused on vocabulary acquisition through experiential learning
Cultural immersion reflection session linking linguistic learning to intercultural competence and SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)
Using the city as a classroom is an integral element of education abroad, and this course will include several field visits, as well as assignments that prompt students to engage actively with their host context. Field visits vary across terms, but examples include those listed above.
Readings & Resources
Books Articles and Reports Films and Recordings
García, Marcial Prado. Practice Makes Perfect: Basic Spanish. McGraw Hill, 2020.
Dorwick, Thalia, and Ana María Pérez-Gironés. Puntos de partida: An Invitation to Spanish. McGraw Hill, 2022.
Spanish Frequency Dictionary: 2500 Most Used Words and Essential Grammar. MostUsedWords, 2021.
Madrigal, Margarita. Madrigal's Magic Key to Spanish. Three Rivers Press, 1989.
Duolingo Spanish — Vocabulary and grammar reinforcement.
BBC Languages: "Spanish Steps" — Beginner-level grammar and listening practice.
SpanishDict — Dictionary, verb conjugation, and pronunciation audio.
FluentU — Immersive learning through Spanish videos and media.
StudySpanish.com — Structured lessons on grammar, pronunciation, and conversation.
Film: "El Laberinto del Fauno" (Pan's Labyrinth) — Selected scenes for cultural comprehension.
Podcast: "Coffee Break Spanish" — Short episodes for practical language learning.
YouTube: "Spanish with Juan" — Conversational Spanish with real-life context.
Music: Beginner-level listening practice through popular Latin and Spanish songs.
]]> Sustainability and Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges https://authentica.com/locations/study-abroad-in-europe/study-abroad-in-barcelona/barcelona-courses/sustainability-heritage-balancing-preservation-with-environmental-challenges/ Tue, 19 May 2026 12:26:21 +0000 https://authentica.com/?post_type=barcelona-courses&p=30187
Barcelona, Spain — host city for the Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges course Barcelona, Spain · Preserving the Past, Sustaining the Future
Art History Elective

Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges

⏱ Total Hours 45
🎓 Credits 3
📍 Location Barcelona, Spain
✓ Prerequisites None
🏛
Primary Discipline
Art History
Suggested Cross Listings Urban Studies, Cultural Heritage, Sustainability Studies
Total Hours 45
Credits 3
Prerequisites / Requirements None
Course Description

Spain's diverse and historically significant cultural heritage—from ancient Roman ruins to medieval cathedrals and UNESCO World Heritage cities—is increasingly threatened by environmental and human pressures. Climate change, overtourism, urban expansion, and shifting demographics challenge efforts to preserve these valuable assets for future generations.

This course explores how Spain is addressing the sustainability of cultural heritage and historic preservation through multidisciplinary frameworks. Students will engage with case studies that highlight the environmental impacts on heritage sites, technological innovations in conservation, and the role of local communities and tourism management. With a focus on balancing tradition with ecological and social responsibility, students will analyze how sustainability principles are being integrated into heritage policy, planning, and practice in Spain.

UN Sustainable Development Goals Wheel
Aligned with 5 key UN Sustainable Development Goals

The course most directly engages SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through cultural heritage protection in urban contexts, SDG 13 (Climate Action) through adaptive conservation responses to climate risks, SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through sustainable tourism, SDG 4 (Quality Education) through heritage literacy and stewardship, and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) through community-centered and inclusive preservation approaches.

5 Key SDGs Addressed
SDG 4: Quality Education SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production SDG 13: Climate Action
Key Topics
Climate change impacts on cultural heritage Sustainable tourism and its effects on heritage sites The role of technology in preserving cultural sites UNESCO World Heritage sites and sustainable management Community-driven preservation efforts in villages
Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1
Identify the major environmental threats to cultural heritage and explain their impacts in the Spanish context.
Assessment: Quiz and readings analysis.
2
Analyze strategies for sustainable tourism and their effects on cultural and environmental preservation.
Assessment: Case study on tourism and heritage site management.
3
Evaluate the use of technology and innovation in preserving built heritage and cultural landscapes.
Assessment: Research paper on a digital or green preservation method.
4
Examine the role of UNESCO and other institutions in guiding sustainable heritage policies.
Assessment: Group presentation on World Heritage Site management.
5
Propose inclusive and community-centered approaches to sustainable heritage conservation.
Assessment: Final project with applied recommendations.
Course Format and Assessment Methods
20%
Class Participation and Discussion
Active participation in class discussions, group activities, and field visit reflections.
All LOs
10%
Quiz on Heritage and Environmental Challenges
Covers key concepts including climate risks, sustainability frameworks, and Spain-specific heritage concerns.
LO 1
10%
Case Study Analysis
A 3-page written analysis of a Spanish heritage site impacted by tourism, climate, or urbanization.
LO 2
20%
Research Paper
A 10–12-page paper evaluating technological or green innovations in heritage preservation in Spain.
LO 3
20%
Fieldwork Reports
Two short (3-page) reports based on site visits, assessing preservation challenges and sustainable practices.
LO 2, LO 4
20%
Group Project & Presentation
Teams will design a sustainable management plan for a Spanish cultural site or propose a new community-driven conservation initiative.
LO 4, LO 5
Course Outline
1
Heritage in Crisis: Climate Change and Historic EnvironmentsTypes of climate risks threatening Spain's built heritage, including sea-level rise, drought, and extreme weather.
2
Urbanization, Mass Tourism, and OvertourismImpacts of mass tourism and urban development on cultural landscapes, with a focus on Barcelona, Granada, and the Camino de Santiago.
3
Sustainable Heritage Policy: Spain's National and Regional ApproachesHow Spanish heritage policy integrates sustainability and the environmental mandates of the EU and UNESCO.
4
The Role of UNESCO and Global FrameworksThe World Heritage Convention and how international institutions shape preservation practices through sustainability metrics.
5
Technologies of PreservationDigital scanning, climate control, and green materials as tools for sustainable heritage preservation.
6
Sustainable Tourism in PracticeEcotourism and heritage tourism models that aim to reduce environmental impact and promote local stewardship.
7
Community-Led PreservationCase studies of rural and indigenous Spanish communities protecting their cultural assets through grassroots initiatives.
8
Urban Regeneration and Adaptive ReuseHow sustainable development intersects with preservation in the reuse of historic buildings and districts.
9
Resilience, Risk Assessment, and Future PlanningHow heritage professionals are planning for long-term risk.
10
Group Presentations: Designing Sustainable SolutionsTeams present their proposed sustainable preservation or tourism strategies with site-specific applications.
11
Reflection: Heritage, Identity, and Climate JusticeConclude with a critical reflection on whose heritage is preserved, for whom, and how justice frameworks influence sustainability decisions.
Field Visits and Guest Speakers
A historic site undergoing conservation (e.g., Sagrada Família)
A museum or archive using green technology for conservation
MUHBA Plaça del Rei — including the Roman ruins beneath the Gothic Quarter: an immersive look into urban archaeological preservation amid a bustling modern city
Heritage professionals from Spanish conservation agencies (guest speakers)
Cultural anthropologists and local preservation advocates (guest speakers)
Using the city as a classroom is an integral element of education abroad, and this course will include several field visits, as well as assignments that prompt students to engage actively with their host context. Field visits vary across terms, but examples include those listed above.
Readings & Resources
Books Articles and Reports Films and Recordings reports
Avrami, Erica, et al. Preservation and the New Data Landscape. Columbia Books on Architecture, 2020.
Labadi, Sophia. UNESCO, Cultural Heritage, and Outstanding Universal Value. Rowman & Littlefield, 2013.
Fairclough, Graham, et al., eds. The Heritage Reader. Routledge, 2007.
Daly, Peter, and John R. Walsh. Sustainable Heritage: Merging Environmental and Cultural Conservation. Wiley-Blackwell, 2012.
Fouseki, K. & Sakka, E. (2021). "Climate Change and Heritage Management: Frameworks and Case Studies." Heritage & Society.
Bertacchini, E., & Segre, G. (2018). "Tourism and Cultural Heritage Sustainability in European Cities." Sustainability.
Leask, A. (2010). "Progress in Visitor Attraction Research: Towards More Effective Management." Tourism Management.
González, P. A., & Medina, R. (2020). "Climate change and heritage in Spain: The need for an adaptive conservation approach." Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development.
Garcia-Hernandez, M., de la Calle-Vaquero, M., & Yubero, C. (2017). "Cultural heritage and urban tourism: Historic city centres under pressure." Sustainability, 9(8), 1346.
Prats, L. (2011). "Heritage according to scale." Tourism Geographies, 13(1), 1–17. Discusses local vs. national heritage narratives in Catalonia, with examples from Barcelona.
Russo, A. P., & Scarnato, A. (2018). "Heritage and the city: Urban space, governance and citizen participation in Barcelona." City, Culture and Society, 13, 25–34.
Fernández Salinas, V. (2016). "Cultural heritage management and sustainable tourism in Spain: A case study of the historic city of Córdoba." Journal of Cultural Heritage, 22, 149–157.
"Heritage at Risk: Climate Change and Cultural Sites" — UNESCO YouTube Channel
Podcast: Preserving Cultural Heritage in a Warming World — Global Heritage Fund
DW Documentary: Spain's Struggle to Save Its Historic Cities from Overtourism
"How 3D Scanning is Saving Cultural Heritage" — TEDx Talk by Ben Kacyra
UNESCO World Heritage Centre
ICOMOS Spain – Cultural Heritage and Climate Action
Ministry of Culture and Sport (Spain)
EU Open Heritage Report
Climate Heritage Network
]]> Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy https://authentica.com/locations/study-abroad-in-europe/study-abroad-in-barcelona/barcelona-courses/sustainable-energy-systems-transition-to-renewable-energy/ Tue, 19 May 2026 12:25:40 +0000 https://authentica.com/?post_type=barcelona-courses&p=30185
Barcelona, Spain — host city for the Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy course Barcelona, Spain · Spain's Renewable Revolution
Energy Studies Elective

Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy

⏱ Total Hours 45
🎓 Credits 3
📍 Location Barcelona, Spain
✓ Prerequisites None
⚡
Primary Discipline
Energy Studies
Suggested Cross Listings Engineering, Environmental Studies, Sustainability, Energy Policy
Total Hours 45
Credits 3
Prerequisites / Requirements None
Course Description

Spain presents a fascinating case study in renewable energy development, emerging as a European leader in wind and solar power while navigating complex political, economic, and geographical challenges. This course examines Spain's energy transition, focusing on the opportunities and challenges in adopting sustainable energy practices. How is Spain leveraging its abundant solar and wind resources to transform its energy system? What role do technological innovation, policy frameworks, and social factors play in Spain's renewable energy landscape? How do regional differences within Spain's autonomous communities shape diverse approaches to energy transition?

Using Spain as both case study and classroom, students will explore the technological, economic, and social aspects of Spain's renewable energy projects. Through lectures, field visits to renewable energy installations, and project work, students engage with both theoretical frameworks and practical applications of renewable energy systems in Spain, developing their analytical, research, and problem-solving skills while preparing themselves to engage with complex energy transition challenges.

UN Sustainable Development Goals Wheel
Aligned with 5 key UN Sustainable Development Goals

The course most directly engages SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) through the central focus on renewable energy systems, SDG 13 (Climate Action) through the decarbonization of Spain's energy mix, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through grid modernization and energy storage, SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through urban energy applications, and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through the renewable industry ecosystem and just transition.

5 Key SDGs Addressed
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG 13: Climate Action
Key Topics
The renewable energy landscape (solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal) Energy policy and climate goals Energy storage and smart grid technology Local energy cooperatives and decentralized energy systems The impact of renewable energy on local communities and industries
Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1
Identify and explain key renewable energy technologies, their applications in the Spanish context, and the evolution of Spain's energy system from conventional to renewable sources.
Assessment: Quiz on renewable energy technologies and Spain's energy landscape.
2
Evaluate the interconnectedness of technological, economic, policy, and social factors in renewable energy development, analyzing how interventions in one area impact others in the Spanish context.
Assessment: Case study analyzing interdependencies of renewable energy systems in Spain.
3
Assess the effectiveness of current renewable energy policies and initiatives in Spain, identifying strengths, shortcomings, challenges, and areas for improvement.
Assessment: Research paper critically evaluating a renewable energy policy or project in Spain.
4
Design innovative approaches to renewable energy implementation that address technical and social challenges, considering the unique geographical, economic, and cultural context of Spain.
Assessment: Group project proposing a renewable energy solution for a Spanish community.
5
Formulate a compelling strategy for advancing renewable energy adoption, utilizing stakeholder engagement, technical feasibility analysis, and policy frameworks relevant to the Spanish energy context.
Assessment: Presentation and written proposal for implementing a renewable energy initiative in a Spanish region.
Course Format and Assessment Methods
20%
Class Discussions and Debates
Demonstrated engagement with assigned readings. Thoughtful contributions to class and Canvas discussions.
All LOs
10%
Quiz
Demonstrated understanding of renewable energy technologies and Spain's energy landscape.
LO 1
20%
Research Paper
A 10–12-page critical analysis of a renewable energy policy or project in Spain. Though not required, comparison with non-Spanish approaches is welcome.
LO 3
10%
Case Study
A 3-page analysis of interdependencies of renewable energy systems in a Spanish regional context.
LO 2
20%
Field Studies
Using class field visits to Spanish renewable energy installations, identify and analyze two examples (10% each) of how renewable energy theory intersects with real-world implementation.
LO 3
20%
Group Project and Presentation
Collaborative research on a renewable energy challenge, solutions, and innovations (10%), and compelling articulation of findings with practical, action-oriented recommendations (10%).
LO 4, 5
Course Outline
1
Foundations of Renewable Energy SystemsCore principles, technologies, and frameworks of renewable energy systems, with specific focus on Spain's energy landscape and transition from conventional to renewable sources.
2
Spain's Energy System: Past, Present, and FutureHistorical context of Spain's energy development, current energy mix, and future projections, examining the drivers and barriers for renewable energy expansion in Spain.
3
Solar Energy in Spain: Photovoltaics and Concentrated Solar PowerComprehensive exploration of Spain's solar energy sector, examining both photovoltaic and concentrated solar power technologies, installation patterns, economic incentives, and Spain's leadership in solar thermal systems.
4
Wind Energy: Spain's Renewable Success StoryAnalysis of Spain's world-class wind energy sector, including onshore and emerging offshore developments, technological innovations, industrial development, and integration challenges.
5
Hydroelectric Power in the Iberian PeninsulaExamination of Spain's hydroelectric infrastructure, historical development, current status, pumped storage facilities, and future potential, including transboundary water management with Portugal.
6
Bioenergy and Waste-to-Energy SystemsInvestigation of biomass, biogas, and waste-to-energy applications in Spain, examining agricultural connections, waste management integration, and sustainability considerations.
7
Energy Storage and Grid Integration ChallengesExploration of Spain's electricity grid modernization efforts, energy storage solutions, and the challenges of managing variable renewable energy resources in an historically isolated grid system.
8
Catalonia's Renewable Energy LandscapeAnalysis of renewable energy development in Catalonia, examining regional energy policies, renewable resources, urban applications, and distinctive regional approaches.
9
Energy Efficiency and Building Integration in SpainExamination of energy efficiency measures and building-integrated renewable energy in Spain, including historical buildings constraints, policy incentives, and technological innovations.
10
Spanish Renewable Energy Policy EvolutionExploration of Spain's renewable energy policy history, including the boom-and-bust cycles of incentives, recent reforms, and current frameworks for renewable energy development.
11
Energy Communities and Citizen ParticipationAnalysis of Spain's emerging energy communities, cooperatives, and citizen participation models, examining their governance, benefits, and challenges in the Spanish social context.
12
Renewable Energy Industries and Economic DevelopmentExamination of Spain's renewable energy industry ecosystem, manufacturing capabilities, technological innovations, and economic impacts, including employment and export opportunities.
13
The Spanish Energy Transition: Social and Political DimensionsExploration of public perception, community engagement, and political debates surrounding renewable energy in Spain, including just transition considerations for fossil fuel-dependent regions.
14
Future Directions: Innovation and Integration in Spanish Renewable EnergySynthesis of key themes and exploration of emerging trends in Spain's renewable energy sector, examining technological innovations, sector coupling, and pathways to a carbon neutral energy system.
Field Visits and Guest Speakers
Solar PV installations in Catalonia, including both utility-scale and building-integrated systems
Concentrated solar power facilities in southern Spain (extended field trip)
Wind farms near Barcelona or in other accessible regions
Barcelona's district heating and cooling system (Districlima)
Smart grid demonstration projects and control centers
Energy efficiency retrofits in historical and modern buildings
Community energy cooperatives and municipal energy initiatives
IREC (Catalonia Institute for Energy Research) or similar research centers
Using the city as a classroom is an integral element of education abroad, and this course will include several field visits, as well as assignments that prompt students to engage actively with their host context. Field visits vary across terms, but examples include those listed above.
Readings & Resources
Books Articles and Reports Films and Recordings reports
Cerdá, Emilio, and Xavier Labandeira. 2020. Climate Change Policies: Global Challenges and Future Prospects. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar Publishing.
Gomez, Tomás, and Javier García. 2021. Energías Renovables en España: Presente y Futuro [Renewable Energy in Spain: Present and Future]. Madrid: Aranzadi.
Martínez, Daniel, and Natalia Fabra. 2022. La Transición Energética en España [The Energy Transition in Spain]. Barcelona: Deusto.
Menéndez Pérez, Emilio. 2019. La Transición Energética en España: Una Oportunidad para la Modernización de la Economía [The Energy Transition in Spain: An Opportunity for Economic Modernization]. Madrid: Real Instituto Elcano.
Perez, Félix, and María Teresa Costa. 2020. El Sistema Eléctrico Español y la Transición Energética [The Spanish Electricity System and the Energy Transition]. Madrid: Funcas.
Sáenz de Miera, Gonzalo, and Pablo del Río. 2021. Rethinking Energy in Spain: A Way Forward. Cham: Springer.
Twidell, John, and Tony Weir. 2015. Renewable Energy Resources. 3rd ed. London: Routledge.
Ciarreta, Aitor, Maria Paz Espinosa, and Cristina Pizarro-Irizar. 2020. "Optimal Regulation of Renewable Energy: A Comparison of Feed-in Tariffs and Tradable Green Certificates in the Spanish Context." Energy Economics 85: 104616.
del Río, Pablo, and Luis Janeiro. 2021. "Drivers and Barriers to Renewable Energy Deployment in Spain." Energy Sources, Part B: Economics, Planning, and Policy 16 (6): 533-552.
Gallego-Castillo, Cristóbal, Marta Victoria, and Natalia Heleno. 2022. "The Role of Energy Storage in the Spanish Power System: Current State and Future Prospects." Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 159: 112195.
González, Jorge S., Manuel Burgos Payán, Jesús Riquelme Santos, and Francisco González-Longatt. 2019. "Renewable Energy Integration in Spain: Regional Variations and Future Development." Renewable Energy 143: 1285-1298.
López Prol, Javier, Karl W. Steininger, and Gabriel Zilberman. 2020. "The Cannibalization Effect of Wind and Solar in the California Wholesale Electricity Market." Energy Economics 85: 104552.
Mir-Artigues, Pere, Pablo del Río, and Elisa Trujillo-Baute. 2021. "The Impact of Regulatory Framework Changes on Renewable Investment: The Case of Spain." Climate Policy 21 (7): 901-919.
Ortega, Margarita, Pablo del Río, and Eduardo A. Montero. 2022. "Analysing the Prospects for Energy Communities in Spain." Energy Policy 158: 112553.
Sorman, Alevgül H., Cristina Pizarro-Irizar, Xaquín García-Muros, Mikel González-Eguino, and Iñaki Arto. 2020. "Energy Transition in Southern Europe: The Case of Catalonia-Spain." Energy Policy 145: 111715.
Alvarez, Mercedes. 2022. Energía Renovable: El Camino Español [Renewable Energy: The Spanish Path]. Documentary.
Caballero, José María. 2021. Transición Energética: El Caso Español [Energy Transition: The Spanish Case]. TVE Documentary.
European Commission. 2023. Spain's Renewable Revolution. Video.
Greenpeace Spain. 2023. España Solar: Una Potencia Energética [Solar Spain: An Energy Power]. YouTube Video.
Jacobson, Mark. 2020. 100% Clean, Renewable Energy and Storage for Everything. TEDx Talk.
APPA (Asociación de Empresas de Energías Renovables). 2023. Estudio del Impacto Macroeconómico de las Energías Renovables en España [Study of the Macroeconomic Impact of Renewable Energy in Spain]. Madrid: APPA.
CNMC (Comisión Nacional de los Mercados y la Competencia). 2023. Informe de Supervisión del Mercado Eléctrico [Electricity Market Supervision Report]. Madrid: CNMC.
European Commission. 2020. The European Green Deal. Brussels: European Commission.
IDAE (Instituto para la Diversificación y Ahorro de la Energía). 2023. Plan Nacional Integrado de Energía y Clima 2021-2030 [National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan 2021-2030]. Madrid: IDAE.
IRENA (International Renewable Energy Agency). 2023. Renewable Energy Prospects for Spain. Abu Dhabi: IRENA.
REE (Red Eléctrica de España). 2023. El Sistema Eléctrico Español: Informe Anual [The Spanish Electrical System: Annual Report]. Madrid: REE.
]]> The Politics of Sustainability: Policies and Governance https://authentica.com/locations/study-abroad-in-europe/study-abroad-in-barcelona/barcelona-courses/the-politics-of-sustainability-policies-and-governance/ Tue, 19 May 2026 12:24:58 +0000 https://authentica.com/?post_type=barcelona-courses&p=30184
Barcelona, Spain — host city for the The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance course Barcelona, Spain · Multi-Level Governance & the Green Deal
Political Science Elective

The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance

⏱ Total Hours 45
🎓 Credits 3
📍 Location Barcelona, Spain
✓ Prerequisites None
🏛
Primary Discipline
Political Science
Suggested Cross Listings Environmental Studies, International Relations, European Studies, Spanish Studies, Catalan Studies
Total Hours 45
Credits 3
Prerequisites / Requirements None
Course Description

Spain presents a fascinating case study in the politics of sustainability, characterized by its distinctive multi-level governance system, regional autonomies, and position within European Union environmental frameworks. This course delves into the political aspects of sustainability in Spain, examining how local, regional, and national governments are creating policies to address climate change, environmental protection, and sustainable development. How does Spain's quasi-federal system and strong regional identities shape environmental policy implementation? What role does Spain play in advancing the European Union's sustainability agenda? How do political, cultural, and economic factors influence Spain's approach to environmental challenges?

Using Barcelona and Catalonia as primary case studies within the broader Spanish context, students will examine Spain's role in the European Union's Green Deal and its influence on global environmental policies. Through lectures, field visits to governmental bodies and environmental organizations, and project work, students engage with both theoretical frameworks and practical applications of sustainable politics in Spain, developing their analytical, research, and critical thinking skills while preparing themselves to engage with complex environmental governance issues.

UN Sustainable Development Goals Wheel
Aligned with 5 key UN Sustainable Development Goals

Spain's multi-level governance offers a unique lens on environmental policy. The course most directly engages SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) via environmental justice, SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

5 Key SDGs Addressed
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG 13: Climate Action SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Key Topics
European Union's sustainability agenda Government policies on climate change, renewable energy, and carbon emissions Approaches to environmental justice and social equity Green public procurement and government-led sustainability projects The intersection of politics and sustainability in local regions (e.g., Catalunya's green initiatives)
Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1
Identify and explain key sustainability governance frameworks, their historical context in Spain, and the evolution of environmental policy at local, regional, national, and EU levels.
Assessment: Quiz on sustainability governance frameworks and history.
2
Evaluate the interconnectedness of political, economic, social, and environmental factors in Spanish sustainability governance, analyzing how policy interventions in one sector impact others.
Assessment: Case study analyzing interdependencies of governance systems in the Spanish sustainability context.
3
Assess the effectiveness of current sustainability policies and initiatives at different governance levels in Spain, identifying strengths, shortcomings, challenges, and areas for improvement.
Assessment: Research paper critically evaluating a sustainability policy or initiative in Spain.
4
Design innovative policy approaches that address sustainability challenges, considering political, institutional, social, and environmental factors within the Spanish context.
Assessment: Group project proposing a policy solution to a sustainability challenge in Spain.
5
Formulate a compelling advocacy strategy for advancing sustainability policy, utilizing stakeholder engagement, coalition building, and policy frameworks relevant to the Spanish political context.
Assessment: Presentation and written proposal for an advocacy campaign targeting a specific sustainability policy in Spain.
Course Format and Assessment Methods
20%
Class Discussions and Debates
Demonstrated engagement with assigned readings. Thoughtful contributions to class and Canvas discussions.
All LOs
10%
Quiz
Demonstrated understanding of sustainability governance frameworks and policy history.
LO 1
20%
Research Paper
A 10–12-page critical analysis of a sustainability policy or initiative in Spain. Though not required, comparison with non-Spanish approaches is welcome.
LO 3
10%
Case Study
A 3-page analysis of interdependencies of governance systems in the Spanish sustainability context.
LO 2
20%
Field Studies
Using class field visits to Spanish government institutions, NGOs, and sustainability initiatives, identify and analyze two examples (10% each) of how sustainability governance theory intersects with real-world practices.
LO 3
20%
Group Project and Presentation
Collaborative research on a sustainability policy challenge, solutions, and innovations (10%), and compelling articulation of findings with practical, action-oriented recommendations (10%).
LO 4, 5
Course Outline
1
Foundations of Sustainability Politics and GovernanceCore principles, history, and frameworks of sustainability governance, with specific focus on Spain's evolution from early environmental movements to modern sustainability politics.
2
Spain's Multi-level Governance System and Environmental PolicyOverview of Spain's quasi-federal governance system, including national, autonomous community, provincial, and local institutions, and how this structure shapes environmental policy development and implementation.
3
The European Union Context: Spain and the European Green DealExamination of Spain's role in EU environmental policymaking, with particular attention to the European Green Deal, implementation challenges, and Spain's contributions to EU sustainability initiatives.
4
Climate Change Policy in SpainAnalysis of Spain's climate policy framework, including the National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan, emissions reduction strategies, carbon pricing mechanisms, and climate adaptation initiatives at various governance levels.
5
Energy Transition Politics: From Fossil Fuels to RenewablesExploration of Spain's energy transition politics, examining the conflicts, coalitions, and policy tools shaping the country's ambitious shift toward renewable energy leadership in solar and wind power.
6
Environmental Justice and Social Equity in Spanish Environmental PolicyCritical analysis of how environmental justice and social equity considerations are addressed in Spanish environmental policy, examining regional disparities, inclusion mechanisms, and distributional impacts.
7
Catalonia's Environmental Politics and GovernanceExamination of Catalonia's distinctive approach to environmental governance, exploring how regional identity, autonomy, and political dynamics influence sustainability policies and initiatives.
8
Comparative Regional Environmental Governance in SpainComparative analysis of environmental governance across Spanish autonomous communities, with case studies of innovative regional sustainability initiatives in areas such as the Basque Country, Andalusia, and Valencia.
9
Barcelona's Urban Sustainability PoliticsExploration of Barcelona's leadership in urban sustainability initiatives, examining the city's climate action plan, mobility strategies, green infrastructure, and citizen engagement approaches.
10
Green Public Procurement and Sustainable Public AdministrationAnalysis of Spain's approach to green public procurement and sustainable public administration practices, examining how government operations are being transformed to reduce environmental impacts.
11
Water Politics and Governance in SpainExamination of water resource management and governance in Spain, focusing on the political dimensions of drought management, river basin authorities, water transfers, and conflicts between regions and sectors.
12
Coastal and Marine Environmental PoliticsAnalysis of governance approaches to sustainability in Spain's extensive coastal and marine environments, including coastal management, marine protected areas, and Blue Economy initiatives.
13
Rural Sustainability and Agricultural PoliticsExploration of the political dimensions of rural sustainability in Spain, examining agricultural policies, land use planning, depopulation challenges, and initiatives to revitalize rural communities.
14
Future Directions: Innovation and Challenges in Spanish Sustainability PoliticsSynthesis of key themes and exploration of emerging trends in Spanish sustainability politics, examining persistent challenges and promising innovations in environmental governance.
Field Visits and Guest Speakers
Generalitat de Catalunya environmental departments and sustainability offices
Barcelona City Council's sustainability and climate action initiatives
Environmental NGOs such as Ecologistas en Acción, SEO/BirdLife, or Greenpeace Spain
Renewable energy facilities and sustainable development projects in Catalonia
Urban sustainability initiatives in Barcelona
Spanish research institutions focused on environmental policy and climate change
Businesses implementing circular economy and sustainability initiatives
Community-led environmental justice campaigns in Barcelona's neighborhoods
Using the city as a classroom is an integral element of education abroad, and this course will include several field visits, as well as assignments that prompt students to engage actively with their host context. Field visits vary across terms, but examples include those listed above.
Readings & Resources
Books Films and Recordings Articles and Reports
Aguilar Fernández, Susana. 2021. Política Ambiental en España: Transición Ecológica en un Estado Descentralizado. Madrid: Catarata.
Alonso, Luis Enrique, Carlos J. Fernández Rodríguez, and Rafael Ibáñez Rojo. 2020. Estudios Sociales sobre el Consumo. Madrid: Centro de Investigaciones Sociológicas.
Carpintero, Óscar, ed. 2015. El Metabolismo Económico Regional Español. Madrid: FUHEM Ecosocial.
Font, Nuria, and Joan Subirats. 2010. Local Environmental Policies in Spain: The Rise of Urban Sustainability. Barcelona: ICPS.
Jordi, Miquel, and Santiago Gorostiza. 2022. Ecologismo y Justicia Social en Barcelona. Barcelona: Icaria.
López, Isidro, and Emmanuel Rodríguez. 2020. Fin de Ciclo: Financiarización, Territorio y Sociedad de Propietarios en la Onda Larga del Capitalismo Hispano. Madrid: Traficantes de Sueños.
Meadowcroft, James, et al., eds. 2019. What Next for Sustainable Development? Our Common Future at Thirty. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar.
Sachs, Jeffrey D. 2015. The Age of Sustainable Development. New York: Columbia University Press.
Subirats, Joan, and Ricard Gomà. 2018. Cambio de Época y de Políticas Públicas en España. Barcelona: Arpa Editores.
Alvarez, Mercedes. 2020. El Año del Descubrimiento. Documentary exploring socioeconomic transformation in Spain.
Balaguer, Jordi. 2022. Transición Ecológica: El Caso Español. Documentary.
European Commission. 2023. The European Green Deal: Spain's Journey. Video.
Jordi, Évole. 2021. Salvados: Crisis Climática en España. La Sexta Television Documentary.
Sachs, Jeffrey. 2021. SDG Implementation: The Politics of Change. TEDx Talk.
Aguilar-Fernández, Susana, and Javier Valencia-Sáiz. 2022. "Climate Governance in Spain: Challenges for the Implementation of the Paris Agreement." Environmental Politics 31 (3): 451-473.
Bono, Ferran, and Santiago Gorostiza. 2021. "Environmental Justice Conflicts in Barcelona: Community Mobilization and Green Infrastructure Planning." Environmental Justice 14 (4): 294-305.
Cerrillo Vidal, José Antonio, and Ernesto Ganuza Fernández. 2020. "Environmental Conflicts and Social Mobilization in Spain: A Multi-Scale Analysis." Journal of Environmental Policy & Planning 22 (2): 227-241.
De Cózar-Escalante, José Manuel. 2021. "Sustainability Transitions in Spain: A Multi-Level Perspective." Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions 38: 275-289.
Del Moral Ituarte, Leandro, and Belén Pedregal Mateos. 2022. "Water Governance Tensions in Spain: Ecological Flows, Territorial Power and Socioeconomic Impacts." Water International 47 (3): 371-393.
Font, Nuria, and Joan Subirats. 2019. "Multi-level Climate Governance in Spain: Swimming Against the Tide?" South European Society and Politics 24 (2): 193-216.
March, Hug, and David Saurí. 2023. "Urban Political Ecology of Climate Change Adaptation in Mediterranean Cities: The Case of Barcelona." Urban Studies 60 (2): 325-343.
Zografos, Christos, et al. 2020. "The Everyday Politics of Urban Transformational Adaptation: Struggles for Authority and the Barcelona Superblock Project." Cities 99: 102613.
Ajuntament de Barcelona. 2022. Pla Clima Barcelona 2018-2030.
European Commission. 2019. The European Green Deal.
Generalitat de Catalunya. 2023. Estratègia Catalana d'Adaptació al Canvi Climàtic 2021-2030.
Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica. 2023. Plan Nacional Integrado de Energía y Clima 2021-2030.
Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica. 2022. Estrategia Española de Desarrollo Sostenible 2030.
Observatorio de la Sostenibilidad en España. 2023. Sostenibilidad en España: Informe Anual.
United Nations. 2015. Transforming Our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
]]> Circular Economy: Local Practices and Global Implications https://authentica.com/locations/study-abroad-in-europe/study-abroad-in-barcelona/barcelona-courses/circular-economy-local-practices-global-implications/ Tue, 19 May 2026 12:23:55 +0000 https://authentica.com/?post_type=barcelona-courses&p=30182
Barcelona, Spain — host city for the Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications course Barcelona, Spain · A Living Lab for Circular Innovation
Economics Elective

Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications

⏱ Total Hours 45
🎓 Credits 3
📍 Location Barcelona, Spain
✓ Prerequisites None
♻
Primary Discipline
Economics
Suggested Cross Listings Environmental Studies, Business, Political Science
Total Hours 45
Credits 3
Prerequisites / Requirements None
Course Description

This course explores the principles and applications of the circular economy, emphasizing Spain's innovative approaches to sustainable production and consumption. While grounded in economic and environmental theory, the course focuses on real-world case studies from across Spain—particularly Barcelona, a global hub for circular economy initiatives. Students will investigate how local and national efforts in circularity are shaping broader conversations around sustainability, design, policy, and business innovation. Emphasis is placed on systemic thinking, life-cycle analysis, and the economic, social, and ecological implications of circular models.

Barcelona's leadership in sustainable urbanism, design, and waste management provides a compelling living lab, and students will engage directly with practitioners, policies, and community-led solutions that model circularity in action.

UN Sustainable Development Goals Wheel
Aligned with 5 key UN Sustainable Development Goals

Spain's circular economy strategy is reshaping how cities and businesses operate. The course most directly engages SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

5 Key SDGs Addressed
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production SDG 13: Climate Action
Key Topics
Introduction to the circular economy model Case studies of circular economy initiatives (e.g., fashion, plastic recycling) The role of design in circular product development Circular economy in the food and beverage sectors Policy frameworks for promoting circularity
Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1
Define the core concepts of the circular economy and contrast them with linear economic models.
Assessment: Introductory quiz and concept mapping.
2
Evaluate circular economy initiatives in Spain, with attention to local context, stakeholder engagement, and environmental outcomes.
Assessment: Case study analysis of a Barcelona-based initiative.
3
Analyze the role of policy, regulation, and design in shaping the circular economy at local and national levels in Spain.
Assessment: Research paper on a sectoral policy or innovation strategy.
4
Design a circular solution for a specific product, service, or urban challenge, incorporating life-cycle analysis, user behavior, and business models.
Assessment: Group project with presentation.
5
Articulate the global relevance of local circular economy practices, linking Spanish efforts to international frameworks like the SDGs and EU Green Deal.
Assessment: Final reflection essay and presentation.
Course Format and Assessment Methods
20%
Class Participation and Discussion
Based on engagement with readings, guest lectures, and site visits. Emphasis on thoughtful questions and contributions.
All LOs
10%
Quiz on Circular Economy Foundations
Assessing understanding of core concepts and historical evolution of circular economy thinking.
LO 1
10%
Case Study Analysis
A 3-page analysis of a circular economy initiative in Spain, evaluating its design, implementation, and outcomes.
LO 2
20%
Research Paper
A 10–12-page critical paper on a specific industry, product system, or policy influencing circular practices in Spain.
LO 3
20%
Fieldwork Reports
Two short (3-page) reports based on site visits, evaluating how businesses or institutions apply circular strategies.
LO 2, 3
20%
Group Project & Presentation
Collaborative project proposing a circular solution. Includes oral presentation and submission of visual materials or prototypes.
LO 4, 5
Course Outline
1
Introduction to the Circular EconomyOrigins, principles, and global significance of the circular economy. Introduces systems thinking, the waste hierarchy, and closed-loop concepts.
2
Linear vs. Circular: Rethinking Resource FlowsTraditional linear model of production and consumption versus circular alternatives, emphasizing environmental and economic impacts.
3
Spain's Circular Shift: National Strategies and EU PolicySpain's national roadmap for circularity and its alignment with the European Union's Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan.
4
Barcelona as Living Lab: Circularity in Urban PracticeBarcelona's role as a pioneer city in circular innovation is explored through urban planning, smart waste systems, and local governance initiatives.
5
Circular Design ThinkingProduct and service design through a circular lens, emphasizing material recovery, modularity, and user-centered sustainability.
6
The Role of Policy and RegulationHow law and policy shape circular transitions, including public procurement, tax incentives, and extended producer responsibility (EPR).
7
Fashion, Textiles, and the Circular EconomySpain's leadership in sustainable fashion with a focus on textile reuse, circular business models, and consumer behavior change.
8
Food Systems and CircularityInnovations in reducing food waste, composting, urban agriculture, and circularity in hospitality and supply chains.
9
Technology, Innovation, and MeasurementHow digital tools like blockchain, IoT, and lifecycle analysis support transparency, traceability, and metrics for circularity.
10
Student Presentations: Circular Innovation ProjectsGroups present their proposed circular solutions, showcasing feasibility, stakeholder analysis, and environmental/social impact.
11
Local to Global: Linking to the SDGs and Global FrameworksSynthesis of course learnings by connecting local circular efforts in Spain to the UN SDGs, global trade, and planetary boundaries.
Field Visits and Guest Speakers
A recycling or materials innovation center in Barcelona
A circular design studio or fashion startup
A zero-waste restaurant or food redistribution nonprofit
Guest speakers may include sustainability officers, policymakers, urban designers, and social entrepreneurs
Using the city as a classroom is an integral element of education abroad, and this course will include several field visits, as well as assignments that prompt students to engage actively with their host context. Field visits vary across terms, but examples include those listed above.
Readings & Resources
Books Articles and Reports Multimedia
Webster, Ken. The Circular Economy: A Wealth of Flows. Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2017.
Stahel, Walter R. The Circular Economy: A User's Guide. Routledge, 2019.
Kirchherr, Julian, ed. Circular Economy and Sustainability: Volume 1. Springer, 2021.
Murray, Alan, et al. The Circular Economy: An Interdisciplinary Exploration of the Concept and Application in a Global Context. Springer, 2017.
Raworth, Kate. Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist. Chelsea Green, 2017.
Braungart, Michael, and William McDonough. Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things. North Point Press, 2002.
Kirchherr, J., Reike, D., & Hekkert, M. (2017). "Conceptualizing the circular economy: An analysis of 114 definitions." Resources, Conservation & Recycling.
Geissdoerfer, M., et al. (2017). "The Circular Economy – A new sustainability paradigm?" Journal of Cleaner Production.
Bocken, N. M. P., et al. (2016). "Product design and business model strategies for a circular economy." Journal of Industrial and Production Engineering.
Rizos, V., et al. (2016). "Implementation of circular economy business models by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): Barriers and enablers." Sustainability.
Valenzuela, F., & Böhm, S. (2017). "Against wasted politics: A critique of the circular economy." Ephemera: Theory & Politics in Organization.
Ellen MacArthur Foundation – Leading global research and advocacy organization on the circular economy.
Spain's Circular Economy Strategy (España Circular 2030) – Spanish Ministry for Ecological Transition.
European Commission – Circular Economy Action Plan.
Circle Economy – Research and tools on measuring circularity globally.
Acción Circular Barcelona – Municipal initiatives and case studies in Barcelona.
Circular Cities Declaration (ICLEI Europe) – Framework for cities implementing circularity.
"Re-Thinking Progress: The Circular Economy" – Ellen MacArthur Foundation (YouTube, 3:48 min)
"Circular Economy in Barcelona" – City promotional video with case examples
DW Documentary: Circular Economy – Redesigning the Future
"A World Without Waste" – Coca-Cola's Circular Packaging Strategy (for critique and debate)
Podcast: Circular with Katie Treggiden – Stories from circular design practitioners
"How the Circular Economy Can Help Save the World" – TEDx Talk by Leyla Acaroglu
]]> Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design and Production https://authentica.com/locations/study-abroad-in-europe/study-abroad-in-barcelona/barcelona-courses/sustainable-fashion-ethical-design-production/ Tue, 19 May 2026 12:23:15 +0000 https://authentica.com/?post_type=barcelona-courses&p=30181
Barcelona, Spain — host city for the Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production course Barcelona, Spain · Where Fast Fashion Meets Slow Innovation
Fashion Design Elective

Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production

⏱ Total Hours 45
🎓 Credits 3
📍 Location Barcelona, Spain
✓ Prerequisites None
👗
Primary Discipline
Fashion Design
Suggested Cross Listings Environmental Studies, Business Ethics
Total Hours 45
Credits 3
Prerequisites / Requirements None
Course Description

Spain has emerged as a significant player in global fashion, with influential fast-fashion giants and innovative sustainable labels that are reshaping the industry's approach to environmental and social responsibility. This course explores how Spanish fashion houses, from major retail groups to independent designers, are adapting to sustainability trends through ethical production, sustainable materials, and eco-conscious consumerism. How are Spanish fashion brands integrating sustainable practices into their business models? What role does Spain's textile manufacturing heritage play in the modern sustainable fashion movement? How do Spanish brands balance growth objectives with increasing demands for transparency and ethical sourcing?

Using Barcelona as both classroom and case study, this course examines the evolving landscape of sustainable fashion in Spain. Through lectures, field visits to fashion headquarters and artisan workshops, and project work, students engage with both theoretical frameworks and practical applications related to sustainable fashion, developing their analytical, research, and problem-solving skills while preparing themselves to engage with the global sustainability agenda in the fashion industry context.

UN Sustainable Development Goals Wheel
Aligned with 5 key UN Sustainable Development Goals

Spain's fashion industry is at a pivotal moment. The course most directly engages SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 5 (Gender Equality) through labor rights, and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

5 Key SDGs Addressed
SDG 5: Gender Equality SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production SDG 13: Climate Action
Key Topics
Sustainable fashion trends The role of brands in environmental and social responsibility Materials innovation in fashion Slow fashion vs. fast fashion The impact of textile waste on the environment
Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1
Identify and explain key sustainability principles and human rights considerations in the fashion industry, their historical context, and the evolution of ethical fashion in Spain.
Assessment: Quiz on sustainability frameworks and ethical fashion history.
2
Evaluate the interconnectedness of social, environmental, and economic factors in sustainable fashion, analyzing how interventions in one area impact others (e.g., transparent supply chains' relationship to consumer trust and brand growth).
Assessment: Case study analyzing interdependencies of sustainability factors in the Spanish fashion context.
3
Assess the effectiveness of current sustainability policies and initiatives by Spanish fashion brands, identifying strengths, shortcomings, challenges, and areas for improvement.
Assessment: Research paper critically evaluating sustainability initiatives of a Spanish fashion brand.
4
Design innovative, cross-sectoral solutions that address fashion industry challenges, considering technological, social, and environmental factors within the Spanish context.
Assessment: Group project proposing an innovative solution to a fashion sustainability challenge in Spain.
5
Formulate a compelling sustainability advocacy campaign for a fashion brand, utilizing media, partnerships, and sustainability frameworks relevant to the Spanish and global fashion industry.
Assessment: Presentation and written proposal for a sustainability campaign for a Spanish fashion brand.
Course Format and Assessment Methods
20%
Class Discussions and Debates
Demonstrated engagement with assigned readings. Thoughtful contributions to class and Canvas discussions.
All LOs
10%
Quiz
Demonstrated understanding of sustainability frameworks and ethical fashion history.
LO 1
20%
Research Paper
A 10–12-page critical analysis of sustainability initiatives of a Spanish fashion brand. Though not required, comparison with non-Spanish brands is welcome.
LO 3
10%
Case Study
A 3-page analysis of interconnectedness and interdependencies of sustainability factors in the Spanish fashion context.
LO 2
20%
Field Studies
Using class field visits to Barcelona-based fashion headquarters and regional textile workshops, identify and analyze two examples (10% each) of how sustainability theory intersects with real-world fashion industry practices.
LO 3
20%
Group Project and Presentation
Collaborative research on a fashion sustainability issue, solutions, and innovations (10%), and compelling articulation of findings with practical, action-oriented recommendations for a Spanish fashion brand (10%).
LO 4, 5
Course Outline
1
Foundations of Sustainable FashionCore principles, history, and frameworks of sustainable and ethical fashion, with specific focus on Spain's evolution from traditional textile manufacturing to modern sustainability initiatives within the fashion industry.
2
The Spanish Fashion Industry: Past, Present, and FutureHistorical context of Spain's fashion industry, current landscape of Spanish fashion retail groups and designers, and future challenges and opportunities for sustainability in Spanish fashion.
3
Social, Environmental, and Economic Dimensions of Fashion SustainabilitySocial (labor practices, cultural heritage, community impact), environmental (materials, production processes, waste), and economic (business models, profitability, market trends) dimensions of sustainability in the Spanish fashion context.
4
Sustainable Fashion in Practice: Spanish Case StudiesEffectiveness of current policies, programs, and initiatives designed to advance sustainability in Spanish fashion brands (major retail groups, independent designers, textile manufacturers).
5
Measuring Sustainability in Fashion: Certifications and StandardsMethodologies and challenges associated with measuring sustainability in fashion using international standards, certifications, and reporting mechanisms, with focus on how Spanish brands engage with these frameworks.
6
Key Stakeholders in Spain's Sustainable Fashion EcosystemRoles and responsibilities of key stakeholders—including designers, manufacturers, government agencies, industry associations, educational institutions, consumers, and advocacy groups—in advancing sustainable fashion in Spain.
7
Ethics and Social Justice in Spanish FashionEthical considerations involved in fashion production and consumption, focusing on issues of labor rights, supply chain transparency, inclusivity, and social responsibility in the Spanish context.
8
Materials Innovation in Spanish FashionInnovative sustainable materials, manufacturing processes, and textile technologies developed by Spanish companies that can reduce environmental impact while maintaining quality and design integrity.
9
Local Production and Global Supply ChainsThe tension between local manufacturing traditions and global supply chains, examining how Spanish fashion balances domestic production with international sourcing while adhering to sustainability standards.
10
The Business of Sustainable Fashion in SpainThe market dynamics surrounding sustainable fashion, including business models, consumer behavior, pricing strategies, and competitive positioning of sustainable Spanish fashion brands.
11
Climate Change and the Fashion IndustryClimate impacts of fashion production and consumption, particularly in Spain's textile regions, and analysis of climate action initiatives by Spanish brands.
12
Communication and Marketing for Sustainable FashionHow to develop effective communication strategies to promote sustainable fashion, avoiding greenwashing while authentically conveying sustainability values to consumers.
13
Fast Fashion Transformation in SpainCritical analysis of Spain's fast fashion giants and their sustainability initiatives, examining the challenges and opportunities in transforming high-volume business models toward greater sustainability.
14
Cultural and Regional Aspects of Sustainable Spanish FashionHow sustainable fashion interacts with Spain's cultural heritage, regional identities, and traditional textile techniques, exploring opportunities to preserve cultural knowledge through sustainable fashion initiatives.
Field Visits and Guest Speakers
Sustainable fashion studios and showrooms in Barcelona's design districts
Traditional textile workshops and artisan studios in Catalonia
080 Barcelona Fashion Week and sustainable fashion exhibitions
Museu del Disseny de Barcelona and fashion sustainability exhibitions
Textile recycling facilities and circular fashion initiatives in Barcelona
Sustainable fashion retail concepts and eco-concept stores
Using the city as a classroom is an integral element of education abroad, and this course will include several field visits, as well as assignments that prompt students to engage actively with their host context. Field visits vary across terms, but examples include those listed above.
Readings & Resources
Books Films and Recordings Articles and Reports
Alonso, Leticia, and Patricia San Miguel. 2020. Sostenibilidad en la Moda: Un Modelo para el Futuro. Madrid: ESIC Editorial.
Black, Sandy. 2019. Sustainable Fashion and Textiles: Design Journeys. London: Routledge.
Fletcher, Kate. 2022. Sustainable Fashion and Textiles: Design Journeys. 3rd ed. London: Routledge.
Gómez, Elena, and Carlos Miguélez. 2021. Moda Española Sostenible: De la Tradición a la Innovación. Barcelona: Gustavo Gili.
Martínez Barreiro, Ana. 2020. Moda y Sostenibilidad: Paradigmas del Diseño Consciente. Madrid: Catarata.
O'Shea, Covadonga. 2019. Así es Amancio Ortega, el Hombre que Creó Zara. Madrid: La Esfera de los Libros.
Posner, Harriet. 2020. Marketing de Moda. Barcelona: Gustavo Gili.
Salcedo, Elena. 2022. Moda Ética para un Futuro Sostenible. Barcelona: Gustavo Gili.
Bardem, Javier, dir. 2019. Santaló 205. Documentary on sustainable fashion in Barcelona.
Coixet, Isabel. 2021. Thread by Thread: Spain's Fashion Revolution. Documentary.
Fashion Revolution Spain. 2023. Who Made My Clothes: Spanish Edition. YouTube Video.
Morgan, Andrew. 2015. The True Cost. Documentary featuring perspectives on global fast fashion, including Spanish brands.
Soler, Anna. 2022. Sustainable Barcelona: Fashion Forward. Documentary Series.
Blanco-González, Alicia, Francisco Díez-Martín, and Camilo Prado-Román. 2020. "The Relationship between Brand Authenticity, Brand Equity and Sustainability: Analysis of Spanish Fashion Brands." Journal of Product & Brand Management 29 (7): 849-61.
Castelló, Araceli, and Del Pino Cristina. 2022. "Beyond Greenwashing: Spanish Fashion Brands' Communication of Sustainability." Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management 26 (2): 375-91.
Díaz Soloaga, Paloma, and Teresa Sádaba. 2021. "Spanish Fashion Retail and Sustainability: An Analysis of Digital Communications." European Journal of Sustainable Development 10 (1): 321-33.
Martinez, Carolina, and Mónica Cortés-Lorenzo. 2023. "Circular Economy Strategies in Spanish Fashion Retail: Case Studies of Transition." Sustainability 15 (2): 1560-78.
Pedraz, Inés, and Jorge García. 2022. "Supply Chain Transparency in Spanish Fashion: Assessment of Consumer Awareness and Brand Practices." International Journal of Fashion Studies 9 (1): 68-86.
Sanchez-Vazquez, Rebeca, Arturo Molina-Collado, and Águeda Esteban-Talaya. 2023. "Sustainability Communication in Spanish Fashion Brands: Rhetoric versus Reality." Fashion Theory 27 (4): 502-24.
Zamani, Bahareh, Greg Peters, and Gustav Sandin. 2021. "Life Cycle Assessment of Clothing Libraries: Can Collaborative Consumption Reduce the Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion?" Journal of Cleaner Production 175: 730-39.
Asociación Moda Sostenible Barcelona. 2023. Manifesto for Barcelona Fashion Sustainability.
Consejo Intertextil Español. 2023. Spain's Textile Industry Sustainability Report.
European Commission. 2020. Circular Economy Action Plan.
Greenpeace Spain. 2022. Destintando la Moda: Environmental Impact of Spanish Fashion.
Inditex Group. 2023. Annual Sustainability Report.
Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica. 2023. Spanish Strategy for Circular Economy in the Textile Sector.
United Nations. 2018. Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action.
]]> Eco-Tourism and Conservation in Natural Reserves https://authentica.com/locations/study-abroad-in-europe/study-abroad-in-barcelona/barcelona-courses/eco-tourism-conservation-in-natural-reserves/ Tue, 19 May 2026 12:22:36 +0000 https://authentica.com/?post_type=barcelona-courses&p=30180
Barcelona, Spain — host city for the Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves course Barcelona, Spain · Mediterranean Ecosystems & Catalan Parks
Environmental Studies Elective

Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves

⏱ Total Hours 45
🎓 Credits 3
📍 Location Barcelona, Spain
✓ Prerequisites None
🌿
Primary Discipline
Environmental Studies
Suggested Cross Listings Sustainability, Geography, Hospitality & Tourism Studies
Total Hours 45
Credits 3
Prerequisites / Requirements None
Course Description

Spain presents a vibrant case study in eco-tourism, conservation, and cultural heritage preservation. This course explores the intersections of sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship across the Spanish context, with a regional focus on Catalonia. From national parks and biosphere reserves to urban green infrastructure and community-based tourism, students will assess the role of eco-tourism in preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable development. Based in Barcelona, the course integrates field experiences, expert guest speakers, and critical inquiry into Spain's evolving ecological and tourism policies.

UN Sustainable Development Goals Wheel
Aligned with 5 key UN Sustainable Development Goals

Catalonia's protected areas anchor an applied study of conservation and tourism. The course most directly engages SDG 14 (Life Below Water) via marine and coastal biodiversity, SDG 15 (Life on Land) for protected areas, SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through sustainable tourism livelihoods.

5 Key SDGs Addressed
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG 13: Climate Action SDG 14: Life Below Water SDG 15: Life on Land
Key Topics
Principles of eco-tourism and sustainable travel Conservation efforts in natural parks Balancing tourism growth with environmental protection Community engagement in sustainable tourism initiatives The impact of climate change on natural habitats
Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1
Define key principles of eco-tourism and sustainable travel in the Spanish and global context.
2
Analyze the ecological and socio-cultural impacts of tourism in Spain's protected regions.
3
Evaluate regional conservation and sustainable tourism strategies through place-based learning.
4
Design eco-tourism approaches that promote biodiversity, heritage, and community benefit.
5
Reflect critically on climate change threats and tourism policy responses in Spain.
Course Format and Assessment Methods
20%
Participation and Engagement
Active participation in lectures, field visits, and group discussions. Students are expected to engage critically with materials and contribute respectfully to dialogue.
All LOs
20%
Field Study Reports
Students will write two short reports (10% each) that synthesize learnings from on-site visits with course concepts and sustainability principles.
LO 2, 3
15%
Case Study
A 3-page case study that investigates a tourism-conservation conflict or success story in Spain. Emphasis on stakeholder perspectives and ecological outcomes.
LO 2, 3, 4
25%
Group Project and Presentation
Collaborative research and design of a proposed eco-tourism model for a chosen region in Spain, including stakeholder mapping, environmental analysis, and promotional plan.
LO 4, 5
20%
Final Reflection Paper
An individual 5–7-page paper synthesizing field experiences, course themes, and personal growth, with a focus on future applications of sustainable tourism.
All LOs
Course Outline
1
Introduction to Ecotourism in Spain and the MediterraneanCore principles of eco-tourism, its global evolution, and how Spain's diverse landscapes shape its sustainability goals.
2
Protected Areas in Spain – Structure, Policy, and BiodiversitySpain's network of national parks, biosphere reserves, and regional protections, including how conservation policies are implemented.
3
Coastal Ecosystems and Conservation ChallengesPressures facing Mediterranean coastal and marine environments, including tourism development, biodiversity threats, and marine park management.
4
Community-Based and Rural Tourism in CataloniaHow Catalan towns and rural communities use eco-tourism to support economic growth while preserving the environment and cultural identity.
5
Collserola Natural Park – Nature on the Edge of the CityChallenges and benefits of maintaining a large urban green space in a metropolitan context.
6
Climate Change and the Spanish MediterraneanSpecific impacts of climate change in Mediterranean ecosystems, focusing on drought, fire risk, biodiversity loss, and tourism adaptation strategies.
7
Midterm Field Study Debrief + Case Study WorkshopSynthesizing insights from field visits, share observations in small groups, and begin planning individual case studies related to tourism and conservation.
8
Barcelona's Waterfront and Urban Eco-TourismThe transformation of Barcelona's waterfront from industrial zones to green tourism hubs, including marine conservation initiatives and urban beach management.
9
Garraf Natural Park – Forests, Vineyards, and BiodiversityGarraf's Mediterranean ecosystems, focusing on sustainable land use, fire prevention, and ecological education.
10
Sustainable Lodging and Heritage Site ManagementStrategies for eco-friendly accommodations and preserving built heritage within tourism destinations in and around Barcelona.
11
Urban Sustainability and Green Infrastructure in BarcelonaUrban ecological planning in Barcelona, including green roofs, superblocks, cycling infrastructure, and sustainable public spaces.
12
Innovation in Eco-Tourism: Tech, Platforms, and StorytellingHow digital storytelling, platforms, and tourism technologies support the visibility and sustainability of lesser-known Spanish destinations.
13
Final Presentations and Reflective SynthesisPresentation of group eco-tourism projects and submit final reflection papers, tying together personal experiences and academic learning.
Field Visits and Guest Speakers
Parc de Collserola – Metropolitan natural park and ecological corridor
La Fàbrica del Sol – Urban sustainability and green innovation center
Parc del Garraf – Mediterranean forest and biodiversity conservation
Barcelona Waterfront + CRAM – Marine biodiversity, sustainable coastlines, and conservation rescue center
Parc de la Ciutadella and Urban Gardens – Green spaces and public education
Espigoladors and Biciclot Cooperative – Social and environmental sustainability in action
Guest speakers may include local NGO leaders, environmental scientists, ecotourism entrepreneurs, and public sector tourism planners
Using the city as a classroom is an integral element of education abroad, and this course will include several field visits, as well as assignments that prompt students to engage actively with their host context. Field visits vary across terms, but examples include those listed above.
Readings & Resources
Books Articles and Reports Multimedia
Fennell, David A. Ecotourism. 5th ed., Routledge, 2021.
Honey, Martha. Ecotourism and Sustainable Development: Who Owns Paradise? 2nd ed., Island Press, 2008.
Eagles, Paul F.J. "Governance of Recreation and Tourism in Protected Areas." Journal of Sustainable Tourism, vol. 17, no. 2, 2009, pp. 231–248.
Higham, James E.S., and Lück, Michael. "Ecotourism: Pondering the Paradoxes." Journal of Ecotourism, vol. 6, no. 1, 2007, pp. 1–9.
Bardolet, E., and Sheldon, P. J. "Tourism in Catalonia: Culture, Identity, and Management." Annals of Tourism Research, vol. 35, no. 2, 2008, pp. 447–467.
Prats, Lluís. "Ecotourism in Spain: Between Conservation and Development." Journal of Tourism and Cultural Change, vol. 7, no. 3, 2009, pp. 144–159.
Weaver, David B. "Comprehensive and Minimalist Dimensions of Ecotourism." Annals of Tourism Research, vol. 32, no. 2, 2005, pp. 439–455.
Generalitat de Catalunya – Department of Climate Action and Natural Heritage.
Parc Natural de Collserola. parccollserola.net
UNESCO World Heritage Spain. whc.unesco.org
Fundació CRAM. cram.org
"EcoCatalunya" video series by Catalunya Turisme
Ebro Delta and Catalan conservation documentaries (TV3 / RTVE)
"Barcelona + Sostenible" podcast episodes
]]> Sustainability and Tradition in Culinary Culture https://authentica.com/locations/study-abroad-in-europe/study-abroad-in-barcelona/barcelona-courses/sustainability-tradition-in-culinary-culture/ Tue, 19 May 2026 12:21:34 +0000 https://authentica.com/?post_type=barcelona-courses&p=30179
Barcelona, Spain — host city for the Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture course Barcelona, Spain · Mediterranean Foodways & Slow Food
Food Studies Elective

Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture

⏱ Total Hours 45
🎓 Credits 3
📍 Location Barcelona, Spain
✓ Prerequisites None
🍷
Primary Discipline
Food Studies
Suggested Cross Listings Environmental Studies, European Studies, Anthropology
Total Hours 45
Credits 3
Prerequisites / Requirements None
Course Description

Spain's culinary heritage is globally celebrated for its regional diversity, agricultural richness, and cultural symbolism. Yet this heritage is increasingly impacted by climate change, industrial food systems, and shifting consumption patterns. This course explores how Spain's gastronomic traditions both shape and are shaped by contemporary sustainability efforts.

Using Spain as a living classroom, students will investigate how regional foodways—such as olive cultivation, seafood traditions, and local wine production—interact with social and ecological sustainability. Topics will include the preservation of food heritage, Slow Food practices, urban agriculture, food justice, and culinary tourism. Through field-based learning, cooking sessions, and engagement with producers and chefs, students will develop a critical and experiential understanding of what a sustainable food system means in the Spanish context.

UN Sustainable Development Goals Wheel
Aligned with 5 key UN Sustainable Development Goals

Spanish foodways serve as a living laboratory for the 2030 Agenda. The course most directly engages SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through agricultural biodiversity and food security, SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) via ethical consumerism and the Mediterranean Diet, SDG 15 (Life on Land) through soil and seed conservation, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) for fair producer livelihoods, and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through local food systems.

5 Key SDGs Addressed
SDG 2: Zero Hunger SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production SDG 15: Life on Land
Key Topics
History and development of culinary culture Sustainability, local economies, and food production The preservation of culinary traditions and regional cuisines Food policy and influences on global food movements Challenges and opportunities for traditional culinary culture in the modern world
Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1
Identify and explain key regional culinary traditions in Spain and their historical and environmental foundations.
Assessment: Quiz and regional cuisine presentation.
2
Analyze the relationship between culinary practices, local food economies, and sustainability principles.
Assessment: Case study and field report.
3
Evaluate Spanish food systems within broader global challenges such as climate change, globalization, and food security.
Assessment: Research paper on sustainability challenges in a Spanish food context.
4
Apply sustainability frameworks (e.g., Slow Food, Mediterranean Diet) to the analysis of food systems, consumption, and gastronomy.
Assessment: Group project with presentation.
5
Develop a personal framework for ethical food consumption, culinary identity, and social engagement through food.
Assessment: Reflective journal and final project.
Course Format and Assessment Methods
20%
Class Participation and Discussion
Based on engagement with readings, site visits, discussions, and guest lectures.
All LOs
10%
Quiz on Spanish Food Traditions and Sustainability
A short quiz covering regional cuisines, food heritage, and sustainability frameworks.
LO 1
10%
Case Study Analysis
A 3-page written analysis of a sustainable food initiative or tradition in Spain.
LO 2
20%
Research Paper
A 10–12-page critical essay analyzing a sustainability issue in Spain's food system (e.g., food policy, gastrotourism, agricultural resilience).
LO 3
20%
Fieldwork Reports
Two short (3-page) reports based on field visits, assessing sustainability in practice across production and consumption.
LO 2, 4
20%
Group Project & Presentation
Collaborative research on a food sustainability challenge or innovation in Spain, with recommendations and visual storytelling.
LO 4, 5
Course Outline
1
Taste, Place, and IdentityIntroduction to the cultural importance of food in Spain. Students explore how culinary traditions are shaped by geography, history, and identity, and reflect on their own food experiences.
2
Roots of Spanish GastronomyA historical dive into the foundations of Spanish cuisine, including the legacy of Moorish influence, Catholic feast days, peasant traditions, and the Columbian Exchange.
3
Flavors of the NorthFocus on Galicia, Asturias, and the Basque Country. Topics include seafood traditions, cider culture, and the preservation of regional culinary knowledge.
4
South and East: From Olive Oil to PaellaExamination of Andalusia, Valencia, and Catalonia, with an emphasis on olive oil production, paella, and the role of climate and trade in shaping cuisine.
5
Land and LaborExploration of Spanish agriculture with visits to olive groves, vineyards, and farms. Topics include rural livelihoods, sustainability in farming, and agricultural labor rights.
6
The Slow Food MovementAnalysis of Slow Food's origins, principles, and impact in Spain. Students examine case studies of Ark of Taste products and consider how biodiversity is preserved through gastronomy.
7
Food Justice and PolicyStudy of food access, security, and social equity in the Spanish context. Includes a look at EU agricultural policy, food waste, and urban food deserts.
8
Tourism, Taste, and EthicsCritical discussion of culinary tourism, authenticity, seasonality, and the risk of greenwashing in "sustainable" dining experiences.
9
Globalization and Local ResilienceAssessment of the pressures of globalization on traditional foodways. Students explore hybrid cuisine, resistance movements, and local innovation.
10
Cooking with PurposeHands-on cooking session using seasonal, local ingredients. Students reflect on food preparation as cultural storytelling and sustainable practice.
11
Community Food SystemsCase studies from Catalonia and the Basque Country. Topics include community supported agriculture, food cooperatives, and regional self-determination through food.
12
Final Project StudioDedicated time for student-led workshops, peer feedback, and instructor support on final project development.
13
Student PresentationsCapstone presentations of individual or group projects. Formats may include research papers, advocacy campaigns, digital storytelling, or cultural food portfolios.
14
Reflection and Shared TableFinal class discussion, submission of reflection essays, and a shared meal to celebrate the learning journey and Spanish culinary culture.
Field Visits and Guest Speakers
A local market or historic food hall (e.g., Mercado de la Boquería or a regional alternative)
An olive oil cooperative or organic vineyard focused on sustainable land management
Urban agriculture initiatives or permaculture farms
A cooking cooperative or food justice NGO
Slow Food–affiliated farms or Ark of Taste producers
Guest speakers may include sustainable chefs and restaurateurs, farmers, vintners, Slow Food activists, food journalists, and regional food historians
Using the city as a classroom is an integral element of education abroad, and this course will include several field visits, as well as assignments that prompt students to engage actively with their host context. Field visits vary across terms, but examples include those listed above.
Readings & Resources
Books Articles and Reports Multimedia
Montanari, Massimo. 2006. Food Is Culture. New York: Columbia University Press.
Pérez-Sindín López, María. 2018. Gastronomy and Identity in Spain. Madrid: Ediciones Akal.
Nestle, Marion. 2013. Food Politics: How the Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health. Berkeley: University of California Press.
Fonte, Maria. 2010. "Slow Food's Presidia: What Do Small Producers Do with Big Retailers?" Sociologia Ruralis 50 (3): 202–219.
Goodman, David. 2003. "Place and Space in Alternative Food Networks: The Case of Slow Food." Environment and Planning A 35 (11): 1835–1854.
Arguínano, Karlos. 2015. "The Role of Gastronomy in Spanish Cultural Identity." Journal of Spanish Cultural Studies 16 (4): 301–318.
Blay-Palmer, Alison, and Raúl Compés López. 2022. "Food Hubs and Local Food Systems in Spain: Case Studies from Valencia and Catalonia." Agriculture and Human Values 39 (1): 145–160.
Romero, Carolina, and Nuria Ferrer. 2019. "Culinary Heritage, Tourism, and Sustainability in Catalonia." International Journal of Gastronomy and Food Science 16: 100141.
García, Beatriz, and Juan Luis Fernández. 2020. "Local Food Systems and the Mediterranean Diet: A Case Study in Southern Spain." Sustainability 12 (18): 7453.
Herrera, Patricia, and Silvia Martínez. 2021. "Cultural Landscapes and Sustainable Agri-Food Practices in Spain." Journal of Rural Studies 85: 34–42.
Ortega, Mónica, and José Luis Martínez. 2018. "Food Sovereignty and Rural Activism in Spain: Agroecological Alternatives in Andalusia." Journal of Peasant Studies 45 (5–6): 1097–1118.
Slow Food International. slowfood.com
FAO: Mediterranean Diet and Sustainability. fao.org
Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. mapa.gob.es
BBC Travel. 2019. The Spanish Pantry: Exploring Spanish Food Culture.
TED-Ed. 2017. Why the Mediterranean Diet Is So Healthy.
Spain on a Fork YouTube Channel. Recipes and cultural context.
La Huerta de Toni. 2021. Spanish-language vlog about sustainable farming (with English subtitles).
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