Sociology and Criminology

The Climate Crisis, Criminology & the Justice System

Module code: L3126A
Level 5
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Seminar, Lecture
Assessment modes: Portfolio

This module critically reflects on the challenges that the climate emergency poses for criminology and the criminal justice system.

Drawing on green and conservation criminology, the module introduces you to:

• the study of environmental crimes and harms, including the damage to wildlife and the environment wrought by states and corporations
• the relationship between social inequalities
• structures of power and environmental degradation
• case studies and comparative analyses
• the criminal justice systemas both a contributor to environmental (in)justice and a group of institutions particularly at risk from climate disasters.

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate a good understanding of the scope and nature of environmental crimes and harms in the UK and globally.
• Demonstrate a good understanding of green and conservation criminology in contrast to conventional criminology.
• Demonstrate a good understanding of the complex relationship between social structures of power and environmental harms.
• Demonstrate a good understanding of the unique role and vulnerabilities the criminal justice will play in the climate emergency.