Course objectives

The aim of the course is to develop students’ understanding of the principles of sustainable development, ESG factors, and the three-pillar concept of CSR, while also building the skills needed to design strategies that integrate sustainability, responsible management, and measurable impact on society and the environment. Through teamwork, case studies, and applied assignments, students analyse, interpret, and develop proposals for responsible business strategies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They will acquire the ability to design circular business models, prepare and evaluate CSR/sustainability reports, and discuss the societal and environmental impacts of business activities. Emphasis is placed on independent decision-making, critical thinking, practical application of knowledge, and the ability to communicate sustainable solutions within a team, with strong attention also given to stakeholder engagement.

Learning outcomes

The student is able to describe and explain sustainability principles using ESG tools within the three-pillar CSR framework, and can characterise the SDGs and justify key ESG factors. Based on critical analysis, the student evaluates theories and approaches to responsible behaviour and interprets their findings. The student considers the extent and representation of sustainability activities and decides on an appropriate portfolio of responsible objectives, strategies, and action steps to implement business sustainability principles through case study analysis. The student determines the structure of CSR in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals, summarises current knowledge, and develops an understanding of CSR, ESG, and their impacts on society as a whole and on the environment. The student integrates sustainability principles into corporate strategy through group-based problem solving. The student analyses the structure of a circular business model and carries out steps to design a circular business model in a model organisational scenario, gaining the ability to develop such a model and interpret its relevance for environmental and social impact, while justifying its alignment with the principles and objectives of the SDGs. The student analyses a CSR/Sustainability report, justifies its content structure, interprets the organisation’s approach to responsibility, and prepares recommendations for integrating CSR and circular economy principles. The student reflects on how to evaluate responsible approaches and is able to conceptualise, develop, justify, and present a CSR/Sustainability report. The student provides arguments and leads group discussion to justify proposed activities contributing to business sustainability and the achievement of the SDGs.

Teaching methods

Lecture (format: traditional lecture delivery, dialogue, group discussion and group-based problem solving, case study, confrontation method, buzz groups).

Assessment methods

Semester paper (20% of the final grade), preparation of an entrepreneurial portfolio (20% of the final grade), oral exam in the form of a defence of the entrepreneurial portfolio (60% of the final grade).