Sustainable Design for a Better Future Course

What you'll learn

Learn Sustainable Design Practices to Build a Better Future!

Guided by some of Australia’s leading experts in sustainable design, this course explores the essentials of creating spaces, products, and practices that support a sustainable future. With a focus on environmental impact, ethical sourcing, and innovative design approaches, you’ll learn how to implement sustainability in design that meets the needs of today while protecting resources for future generations.

Ideal for anyone looking to gain foundational knowledge in sustainable design, this course will help you make impactful decisions in the built environment, product development, and beyond.

• Understand the principles of sustainable design: Explore core concepts and the importance of design that considers both environmental and social impact.
• Incorporate sustainability into design practices: Gain actionable strategies to reduce waste, choose sustainable materials, and optimise energy use.
• Develop industry-relevant skills: Learn how experts in product design, interior design and the built environment make sustainability integral to their work.
• Explore the role of innovation and technology: Discover how AI and emerging technologies are shaping sustainable design solutions and screening for environmental impact.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this Designing for a Sustainable Future course, you will have learnt how to:

• Explain the principles of sustainable design and their significance for environmental and social responsibility.
• Identify sustainable materials and practices in product and space design.
• Implement strategies for reducing waste and energy consumption in design projects.
• Apply insights from leaders in the industry to enhance sustainability within design processes.
• Recognise the role of technology in advancing sustainable and ethical design practices.
• Develop a plan for sustainable practices that align with specific design goals.

Course Content

What will be covered in this Designing for a Sustainable Future course?

A panel of industry experts will guide you through the following topics:

• Introduction to Sustainable Design Principles: An overview of key concepts in sustainable and ethical design.
• Environmental Impact of Design Choices: Explore how material selection, energy use, and waste reduction shape the built environment.
• Innovative and Responsible Product Design: Learn about sustainable manufacturing and responsible sourcing.
• Technology and Sustainability in Design: Discover AI and digital tools that support sustainable sourcing and waste reduction.
• Implementing Sustainable Practices in Design Projects: Gain practical strategies for adopting sustainable solutions in various design contexts.

Course activities & (optional) assignments

Please note there is no requirement to submit any activities in this course for grading. However, the course includes the following activities and assignments for practical application:

• Sustainable Material Selection Exercise: Choose materials for a design project that considers environmental impact.
• Waste Reduction Plan: Develop a plan to minimise waste in a hypothetical design project.
• Eco-Friendly Design Audit: Assess an existing design project for sustainability improvements.

This course takes approximately 10 hours to complete. Once you complete the course, you will be issued a Digital Badge and a Certificate of Completion.

Intended Audience

Who is this Designing for a Sustainable Future course for?

This course is ideal for:

• Homeowners and sustainability enthusiasts looking to make their home environments adaptable, resilient, and fit for a changing world.
• Design professionals and enthusiasts passionate about creating sustainable, innovative spaces and products.
• Industry leaders and advocates committed to promoting eco-friendly practices and positive environmental impacts through design.
• Students and early-career professionals in architecture, interior design, and product development seeking a strong foundation in sustainable design principles.

Course Materials

This course is delivered online through a partner education provider. You will need access to either a computer, laptop, or tablet with an internet connection. No other prerequisites are required.

This self-paced course fits around your schedule, featuring:

• Engaging video lessons and insights from industry experts
• Quizzes and activities to help solidify your understanding
• Self-paced learning on a user-friendly platform, with instant support from its AI-powered Learning Assistant

Student Reviews

Featured Experts

This course features a panel of sustainability and design experts who bring a wealth of experience and innovation to their fields:

• Abbie Freestone – Director of Climate and ESG at Rewild Agency, Abbie specialises in sustainability measurement, strategy, and education across diverse industries, helping organisations reduce their environmental impact.
• Cushla McFadden – Co-Founder and Director at Tom Mark Henry, an award-winning interior design studio. Cushla champions sustainable, innovative design solutions that create lasting social and environmental impact.
• David Ritter – Director of Atelier Ten’s Melbourne studio, David is an environmental engineer with expertise in sustainable design, net-zero carbon strategies, and transforming the built environment.
• Nick Garnham – Director at Jardan, a leading sustainable furniture and lighting company. With over 25 years of experience, Nick’s work at Jardan integrates responsible manufacturing with Australian lifestyle aesthetics.
• Frances Atkins – Founder of Givvable, an AI-driven platform for automating sustainability screening of suppliers. Frances is dedicated to sustainable supply chain practices and is recognised for her contributions to social innovation.