LAWS 4006 International Climate Law

This is an archived copy of the 2021-2022 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit https://hbook.westernsydney.edu.au.

Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 200800

Coordinator John Juriansz Opens in new window

Description This course is about international climate law examining both the current international legal frameworks and discussion of future scenarios. It will explore the legal, political and scientific challenges in addressing and responding to climate change. It will illustrate how international climate law interacts with national law including private sector involvement but its principal focus is not on domestic law regimes. Various market and non-market mechanisms will be examined including emission trading systems, carbon taxes, new technologies and renewable energy targets.

School Law

Discipline International Law

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 4 10cp

Check your HECS Band contribution amount via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 4 subject

Pre-requisite(s) LAWS 2008

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles of climate law.
  2. Critically evaluate the global legal frameworks underpinning climate law and demonstrate an understanding of key international initiatives and their implementation.
  3. Apply the concepts and principles of international climate law to issues involving mitigation and adaptation.
  4. Undertake independent research and analysis to produce a written essay that demonstrates an understanding of international climate law in a defined context that is clear, analytical, appropriately structured and referenced.

Subject Content

1. The Role of Law in Responding to Climate Change
2. The Science and Economics of Climate Change
3. The International Climate Change Framework
4. UNFCC and the Kyoto Protocol - Flexibility Mechanisms - Compliance - Post Copenhagen and Paris Conference of Parties
5. Australia's Legislative Response to Climate change - emissions trading - carbon taxes - renewable energy targets - energy efficiency schemes
6. Climate Law in Developed and Developing Countries - common but differentiated responsibilities
7. Mitigation and Adaptation

Assessment

The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.

Item Length Percent Threshold Individual/Group Task
Research Assignment - Report 2,500 words 40 N Individual
Exam 2 Hours 60 N Individual

Prescribed Texts

  • Prescribed materials will be available on vUWS.

Teaching Periods

Structures that include subject