MOOC Environmental Emergencies
An interdisciplinary online course (MOOC) coordinated by the Environment and Climate Research Hub of the University of Vienna.
Overview | Course Structure | Register now | FAQs | Unit Previews
Understand the Crisis – Be Part of the Solution
We are living in times of unprecedented environmental change. Climate disruption, species extinction, and pollution are no longer distant threats – they are present realities. But with knowledge comes the power to act.
This free course invites you to explore the environmental challenges shaping our world – and to discover your role in creating meaningful solutions. Through engaging video lessons and expert insights from across disciplines, you'll gain a broad, critical, and hopeful perspective on our shared planetary future.
One-of-a-Kind
This MOOC is unique, taking a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to the three biggest environmental crises facing our planet: climate change, biodiversity and ecosystems, and pollution. It covers subjects ranging from cultural studies and political science to aerosol physics. It is taught in English with German subtitles and is open to students of all disciplines and fields of study, as well as all interested citizens. It covers the fundamentals of the major environmental and climate issues of our time.
Course Structure
The MOOC consists of 1 introduction module and 4 thematic units:
- Climate Change
- Biodiversity and Ecosystems
- Environmental Pollution
- Integrating Perspectives (includes a final summary & outlook)
Each unit contains short video lessons and complementary materials. Units are self-contained – explore them based on your interests or dive into all for the full experience.
The Future Is In Our Hands!
FAQs for the MOOC
- Students from all fields
- Teachers, multipliers, and professionals
- Curious minds concerned about our planet's future
No prior knowledge required – just your interest in understanding global change from a planetary perspective.
- A multidisciplinary introduction to climate, ecosystems, and pollution
- Insights from leading scientists at the University of Vienna (all ECH members)
- Cross-cutting perspectives across Natural sciences, Social sciences and Humanities
- Tools to think critically and act responsibly in a rapidly changing world
By the end of the course, you’ll be able to:
- Understand the key drivers of environmental emergencies
- See connections between global problems and local realities
- Navigate complexity and contribute to sustainable change
- 5 units total
- English with German Subtitles
- Flexible, self-paced learning
- Each video: ~10 minutes
- Estimated total effort: ~6 - 8 hours
- More information for students of the University of Vienna: Verlinkung auf Studierenden Seite
Unit Previews
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