Sustainability has moved to centre stage in recent years generating much public discussion and increased the focus on firm impacts and responsibilities and consumer choice processes. Increased awareness of the significant environmental degradation, decline of natural systems and resources along with community, national and global social inequalities has placed a focus on sustainable business practices. For many marketing has been perceived as part of the problem rather than the solution to issues such as pollution, over consumption, the depletion of natural resource, unhealthy lifestyles, and human rights abuses. However, markets provide a coordinating mechanism through which change takes place. Importantly marketing systems provide the crucial link between market participants including individuals, households, managers, and firms.
This course aims to promote an understanding in the organisation, within the context of a capitalist market economy, of:
- changing consumers attitudes and behaviour, including current unsustainable lifestyles and consumption and the emergence of new forms of consumption
- how marketing can create value sustainably
- the role of marketing and marketers in meeting net zero objectives
- incorporating sustainability into marketing activities and strategies; in order to respond to opportunities and threats that arise from both social, economic and environmental change – such as climate change
- ethical issues in marketing decision making, behaviour, and practice
And provide an introduction to:
- the principle ‘tool kits’ employed by practitioners in pursuing sustainable business
- contemporary best practice in sustainability in marketing, including the role of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Circular Economy, and stakeholder communications
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Identify the impact of social, economic and environmental change and the opportunities and threats these pose to individuals and the organisation
- Apply sustainability thinking into marketing actions, including innovation, planning and implementation
- Differentiate how consumption decisions underpin both positive and negative social and ecological impacts
- Devise marketing tactics to drive sustainable consumption behaviour
- Defend effectively both verbally and in written form proposed sustainable marketing tactics to a broad range of stakeholders
Research-Led Teaching
This course will draw from advances in both marketing practice as well as academic research. Marketing and business media will be supplemented by authoritative academic sources and contemporary empirical and conceptual work.
Field Trips
There are no field trips in this course.
Additional Course Costs
There are no additional costs expected in this course.
Examination Material or equipment
There are no examinations in this course.
Required Resources
There are no required resources in this course but access to a modern computing device (tablet, laptop or desktop computer) is highly advisable.
Recommended Resources
Textbook
- Richardson, N. (2024). Sustainable Marketing Planning (2nd ed.). Routledge.
- eBook available from ANU Library: Click HERE for the link
Empirical Sources
- Media Outlets:
- The Guardian, ABC News, The Sydney Morning Herald.
- Industry Websites/Reports:
- GreenBiz, Eco-Business, Deloitte, PwC.
- Government Sources:
- Australian Bureau of Statistics.
- International Organizations:
- Publications from the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Staff Feedback
Students will be given feedback in the following forms in this course:
- Written comments
- Verbal comments
- Feedback to the whole class, to groups, to individuals, focus groups, etc.
Student Feedback
ANU is committed to the demonstration of educational excellence and regularly seeks feedback from students. Students are encouraged to offer feedback directly to their Course Convener or through their College and Course representatives (if applicable). The feedback given in these surveys is anonymous and provides the Colleges, University Education Committee and Academic Board with opportunities to recognise excellent teaching, and opportunities for improvement. The Surveys and Evaluation website provides more information on student surveys at ANU and reports on the feedback provided on ANU courses.Other Information
Important updates and announcements for this course will be communicated via Canvas. Please ensure you check the course Canvas site regularly.
Every effort will be made to respond to student queries as promptly as possible, typically within 2–3 business days unless special circumstances arise. Email is the preferred first point of contact, with other forms of communication (e.g., Canvas discussion forums) used as appropriate.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI use is rapidly growing in all sectors, particularly the use of Large Language Models, of which there are many proprietary brands. In this course, students may choose to use or not use AI tools. In any case where AI tools are used, the student must do so in a way consistent with the ANU Academic Integrity principles for use of GenAI, as well as accurately cite and reference what tools were used, and advise in an appendix how they used the tool. Guidance on how to do this appropriately is provided in the assessment requirements on the course Canvas page, and the ANU provides further broad guidance in the ANU Gen AI LibGuide. As part of handling a potential breach of academic integrity, students are reminded that they may be requested to meet with the Convener to discuss any assessment submission, including responding to questions on the content of submissions and their understanding of the course concepts assessed by the submission.
Support of students: The University offers a number of support services for students. Information on these is available online from http://students.anu.edu.au/studentlife/.
Class Schedule
| Week/Session | Summary of Activities | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Overview Session: General Course InformationLecture 1: Why Sustainability Matters | Chapter 1: Sustainability and Sustainable DevelopmentPre-recorded lectures commence in Week 1. No tutorials in Week 1. |
| 2 | Lecture 2: Thinking Critically about Marketing | Chapter 2: Critical Thinking and MarketingTutorials commence in Week 2. |
| 3 | Lecture 3: Understanding Sustainable Consumers | Chapter 3: Sustainable Buyer Behaviour |
| 4 | Lecture 4: Planning for Sustainable Impact | Chapter 5: Sustainable Marketing PlanningAssessment Task 1: Sustainability Issue Review (Due: Friday 20.03.2026 @ 23:59) |
| 5 | Lecture 5: Strategising for Sustainable Action | Chapter 5: Sustainable Marketing Planning (cont.) |
| 6 | Lecture 6: Rethinking the Marketing Mix for Tactical Design | Chapter 4: The Marketing Mix |
| 7 | Lecture 7: Driving Sustainability from Within | Chapter 6: Internal Marketing |
| 8 | Lecture 8: Implementing and Evaluating for Sustainable Results | Chapter 5: Sustainable Marketing Planning (cont.) |
| 9 | Lecture 9: Creating Sustainable Relationships | Chapter 7: Relationship Marketing and LoyaltyAssessment Task 2: Behaviour Change Strategy (Due: Monday 04.05.2026 @ 23:59) |
| 10 | Lecture 10: Rethinking Consumption | Chapter 8: Themes |
| 11 | Lecture 11: Putting Ethics into Sustainable Practice | Chapter 8: Themes (cont.) |
| 12 | Lecture 12: The Road Ahead | Chapter 8: Themes (cont.) |
| 13 | Examination Period | Assessment Task 3: Sustainability Impact Pitch Video & Reflective Statement (Due: Thursday 04.06.2026 @ 23.59) |
Tutorial Registration
Tutorials will be held weekly (starting from Week 2). All tutorials will have an in-person/face-to-face delivery. ANU utilizes MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse it, and self-allocate to small teaching activities/tutorials so they can better plan their time. Tutorial registration will be available two weeks before the beginning of the semester and will close at the end of Week 1. More details can be found on the Timetable webpage: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/timetabling.
Assessment Summary
| Assessment task | Value | Due Date | Return of assessment | Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sustainability Issue Review (Individual - 30%) | 30 % | 20/03/2026 | 31/03/2026 | 1,3 |
| Behaviour Change Strategy (Individual - 40%) | 40 % | 04/05/2026 | 18/05/2026 | 2,4,5 |
| Sustainability Impact Pitch Video (Individual/Pair - 25%) & Reflective Statement (Individual - 5%) = 30% | 30 % | 04/06/2026 | 02/07/2026 | 4,5 |
* If the Due Date and Return of Assessment date are blank, see the Assessment Tab for specific Assessment Task details
Policies
ANU has educational policies, procedures and guidelines, which are designed to ensure that staff and students are aware of the University’s academic standards, and implement them. Students are expected to have read the Academic Misconduct Rule before the commencement of their course. Other key policies and guidelines include:- Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure
- Special Assessment Consideration Policy and General Information
- Student Surveys and Evaluations
- Deferred Examinations
- Student Complaint Resolution Policy and Procedure
Assessment Requirements
The ANU is using Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website Students may choose not to submit assessment items through Turnitin. In this instance you will be required to submit, alongside the assessment item itself, hard copies of all references included in the assessment item.Moderation of Assessment
Marks that are allocated during Semester are to be considered provisional until formalised by the College examiners meeting at the end of each Semester. If appropriate, some moderation of marks might be applied prior to final results being released.Participation
This course follows a flipped classroom model designed to maximise in-class engagement and application of concepts.
- Lectures (1.5 hours) will be pre-recorded and made available on the course Canvas page. Students are required to watch these recordings prior to tutorials, as they introduce key concepts that will be explored in greater depth during in-class activities.
- Tutorials (1.5 hours) will be delivered face-to-face on campus. These sessions are not recorded and there is no online delivery option. All relevant tutorial materials will be provided on the course Canvas page.
Active engagement with pre-recorded lectures is essential for building the conceptual foundation needed for meaningful participation in tutorials and successful completion of assessments. Tutorial activities are designed to apply and reinforce these concepts, with in-class exercises used to gauge engagement. While tutorial participation is not formally graded, consistent involvement is strongly advised to ensure students can demonstrate achievement across all learning outcomes for the course.
Attendance at tutorials is expected in accordance with the Code of Practice for Teaching and Learning (Clause 2, Paragraph b). However, attendance alone is not sufficient. Students are expected to arrive prepared and engage actively and constructively. This includes:
- Contributing thoughtfully to group discussions,
- Listening and responding to peers,
- Demonstrating collaborative leadership or followership when appropriate,
- Participating fully in tutorial activities, and
- Sharing relevant individual insights with the class.
To succeed in this course, students should therefore:
- Engage with all pre-recorded lectures as part of their self-directed learning,
- Actively prepare for and contribute to tutorials, and
- Submit all assessment tasks by the required deadlines.
Examination(s)
There are no examinations in this course.
Assessment Task 1
Learning Outcomes: 1,3
Sustainability Issue Review (Individual - 30%)
Assessment Description: Students are expected to complete a sustainability issue review for a newly established Ministerial portfolio for Environment and Sustainability. The review requires students to explain why the selected issue matters, critically analyse the issue by comparing the current dominant practice with a sustainability-oriented practice, and provide practical, evidence-based recommendations to improve outcomes. Students will be given two sustainability-focused topics and will select ONE to explore in depth. The review must be clear, well-structured, and supported by academic literature, empirical evidence, and key concepts introduced in Weeks 1–3 of the course. The purpose of this task is to equip the Minister with a strong understanding of the issue and offer informed directions for action.
More information about the assessment task will be made available on Canvas from two weeks prior to Week 1 of the semester.
Assessment Type: Individual
Weight: 30%
Words: 1000 words (+/- 10%) - including all headings, sub-headings, and in-text citations. Any portion in excess of the word limit will neither be read nor marked.
References: APA 7th style (excluded from the word count). Click here for information on the referencing style: APA 7th Style
Due Date: 20.03.2026 (Friday, Week 4) @ 23:59
Submission: via Canvas
Late Submission: Late submission of assessment tasks without a pre-approved extension are penalised at the rate of 5% of the possible marks available per working day or part thereof. Late submission of assessment tasks is not accepted after 10 working days after the due date, or on or after the date specified in the course outline for the return of the assessment item. Requests for Assessment Adjustment (Assessment Extension and Extenuating Circumstances Application) should be submitted via ANUHub.
Rubric: A marking rubric will be made available on Canvas from Week 1 of the semester.
Return of Assessment: Marks and written feedback will be made available within 10 working days of submission, and specifically by 31 March.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Students are welcome to use generative AI tools (e.g. GPT-4, DALL-E, Copilot) and other tools (e.g. Grammarly) to support their learning in a way that is consistent with the ANU Academic Integrity principles for use of GenAI. As such, please be aware of the following additional conditions for this assessment task:
- Clearly acknowledge the use of Artificial Intelligence in the relevant parts of the assessment task.
- Submit the deliverable in a format that preserves ‘tracked changes’ (e.g. MS Word , Apple Pages, or similar) that shows the progression of academic effort and contribution towards completing the task.
- Include a short reflection at the end of your report (as an appendix of maximum 150 words) describing how, if at all, you used any generative AI tools during the completion of this assessment.
- In your reference list, annotate all sources with a 1–2 sentence note describing how you used each source in your report.
Assessment Task 2
Learning Outcomes: 2,4,5
Behaviour Change Strategy (Individual - 40%)
Assessment Description: Students are expected to develop an evidence-based behaviour change strategy focused on increasing student participation in a real-life sustainability initiative on campus. This task requires students to analyse a sustainability challenge and the related student behaviours, identify key behavioural barriers and enablers, define relevant student segments, and propose a practical behaviour change tactic to encourage more sustainable participation. Students must support their analysis with empirical sources, relevant course concepts from Weeks 4–8, and academic literature. This task also prepares students for a subsequent task, where key elements of the behaviour change strategy will be translated into a persuasive pitch aimed at decision-makers.
More information about the assessment task will be made available on Canvas from two weeks prior to Week 1 of the semester.
Assessment Type: Individual
Weight: 40%
Words: 2000 words (+/- 10%) - including all headings, sub-headings, and in-text citations. Any portion in excess of the word limit will neither be read nor marked.
References: APA 7th style (excluded from the word count). Click here for information on the referencing style: APA 7th Style
Due Date: 04.05.2026 (Monday, Week 9) @ 23:59
Submission: via Canvas
Late Submission: Late submission of assessment tasks without a pre-approved extension are penalised at the rate of 5% of the possible marks available per working day or part thereof. Late submission of assessment tasks is not accepted after 10 working days after the due date, or on or after the date specified in the course outline for the return of the assessment item. Requests for Assessment Adjustment (Assessment Extension and Extenuating Circumstances Application) should be submitted via ANUHub.
Rubric: A marking rubric will be made available on Canvas from Week 1 of the semester.
Return of Assessment: Marks and written feedback will be made available within 10 working days of submission.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Students are welcome to use generative AI tools (e.g. GPT-4, DALL-E, Copilot) and other tools (e.g. Grammarly) to support their learning in a way that is consistent with the ANU Academic Integrity principles for use of GenAI. As such, please be aware of the following additional conditions for this assessment task:
- Clearly acknowledge the use of Artificial Intelligence in the relevant parts of the assessment task.
- Submit the deliverable in a format that preserves ‘tracked changes’ (e.g. MS Word , Apple Pages, or similar) that shows the progression of academic effort and contribution towards completing the task.
- Include a short reflection at the end of your report (as an appendix of maximum 150 words) describing how, if at all, you used any generative AI tools during the completion of this assessment.
- In your reference list, annotate all sources with a 1–2 sentence note describing how you used each source in your report.
Assessment Task 3
Learning Outcomes: 4,5
Sustainability Impact Pitch Video (Individual/Pair - 25%) & Reflective Statement (Individual - 5%) = 30%
Assessment Description: This task consists of two parts: a sustainability impact pitch video (Part A) and a reflective statement (Part B).
- Part A - Sustainability Impact Pitch Video: Students are expected to develop and deliver a sustainability impact pitch that demonstrates how meaningful behaviour change among ANU students can be driven through the revival of a real-life sustainability initiative, creating long-term impact within the university community. Working individually or in pairs, students will pitch to a decision-making audience, making a clear case for funding and/or institutional support to enable implementation. Building on their Assessment Task 2, students are expected to clearly explain the sustainability challenge, the behaviour change solution, the impact it can create, and a forward-looking case for continued support in their pitch. The pitch should be engaging, persuasive, and accessible to a non-expert audience, drawing on relevant course concepts from Weeks 9–12.
- Students may choose to work either independently or in pairs of two to develop their pitch. For those working in pairs, students can self-select their pitch partner from any tutorial group within this course.
- The pitch must be submitted as a pre-recorded video, with students required to appear on camera (audio-only submissions are not permitted). If working in pairs, both students must actively present, appear on camera and contribute equally.
- All students will have structured opportunities during weekly tutorials to make incremental progress on pitch development. These sessions are designed to support effective collaboration, build confidence in paired work, and allow students to refine their ideas, storytelling, and delivery. The course convener and/or tutors will provide guidance during tutorials to support productive collaboration and address any challenges in paired work early. Regular check-ins will enable teaching staff to identify and respond to any issues proactively, helping ensure a fair, supportive, and effective pitch development process.
- If any challenges arise related to paired work or collaboration, students should contact the course convener as the primary point of contact, either by scheduling a consultation or via email communication.
- Part B - Reflective Statement: Students are expected to submit a reflective statement addressing two areas of reflection: (1) the learning gained from developing the Sustainability Impact Pitch, and (2) broader sustainability considerations related to the use of AI in learning within this course. The reflection provides an opportunity to demonstrate engagement with course concepts, application of skills, and critical reflection on learning. For students who completed the pitch in pairs, the statement also serves as a record of individual learning and contribution should any concerns about unequal participation arise. The reflective statement is submitted individually and will not be shared with the pitch partner.
More information about the assessment task will be made available on Canvas from two weeks prior to Week 1 of the semester.
Assessment Type:
- Part A - Sustainability Impact Pitch Video: Individual or Pair (2 students only; self-selected; pitch partner can be from any tutorial group within this course)
- Part B - Reflective Statement: Individual
Weight:
- Part A - Sustainability Impact Pitch Video: 25%
- Part B - Reflective Statement: 5%
Deliverables:
- Part A - Sustainability Impact Pitch Video: pre-recorded video of 5-7 minutes - any portion in excess of the maximum time limit will not be assessed; file format (MP4, MOV, M4V).
- Part B - Reflective Statement: 200 words maximum. Any portion in excess of the word limit will neither be read nor marked.
Due Date: 04.06.2026 (Thursday, Exam Week 1) @ 23:59
Submission: via Canvas
Late Submission: Late submission of assessment tasks without a pre-approved extension are penalised at the rate of 5% of the possible marks available per working day or part thereof. Late submission of assessment tasks is not accepted after 10 working days after the due date, or on or after the date specified in the course outline for the return of the assessment item. Requests for Assessment Adjustment (Assessment Extension and Extenuating Circumstances Application) should be submitted via ANUHub.
Rubric: A marking rubric will be made available on Canvas from Week 1 of the semester.
Return of Assessment: Marks will be made available with the formal release of the final grade.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Students are welcome to use generative AI tools (e.g. GPT-4, DALL-E, Copilot) and other tools (e.g. Grammarly) to support their learning in a way that is consistent with the ANU Academic Integrity principles for use of GenAI. As such, please be aware of the following additional conditions for this assessment task:
- Clearly acknowledge the use of Artificial Intelligence in the relevant parts of the assessment task.
- Submit the video deliverable with a brief verbal or on-screen acknowledgement of any use of AI within the video.
- Submit the written deliverable in a format that preserves ‘tracked changes’ (e.g. MS Word, Apple Pages, or similar) that shows the progression of academic effort and contribution towards completing the task.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a core part of our culture as a community of scholars. At its heart, academic integrity is about behaving ethically. This means that all members of the community commit to honest and responsible scholarly practice and to upholding these values with respect and fairness. The Australian National University commits to embedding the values of academic integrity in our teaching and learning. We ensure that all members of our community understand how to engage in academic work in ways that are consistent with, and actively support academic integrity. The ANU expects staff and students to uphold high standards of academic integrity and act ethically and honestly, to ensure the quality and value of the qualification that you will graduate with. The University has policies and procedures in place to promote academic integrity and manage academic misconduct. Visit the following Academic honesty & plagiarism website for more information about academic integrity and what the ANU considers academic misconduct. The ANU offers a number of services to assist students with their assignments, examinations, and other learning activities. The Academic Skills and Learning Centre offers a number of workshops and seminars that you may find useful for your studies.Online Submission
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. You will be required to electronically sign a declaration as part of submitting your assignment. Please keep a copy of the assignment for your records. Unless an exemption has been approved by the Associate Dean (Education), submission must be through Turnitin. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Learning Platforms website.
Hardcopy Submission
For some forms of assessment (handwritten assignments, artworks, laboratory notes, etc.), hard copy submission is appropriate when approved by the Associate Dean (Education). Hard copy submissions must utilise the Assignment Cover Sheet. Please keep a copy of the completed tasks for your records.
Late Submission
Late submission of assessment tasks without a pre-approved extension are penalised at the rate of 5% of the possible marks available per working day or part thereof. Late submission of assessment tasks is not accepted after 10 working days after the due date, or on or after the date specified in the course outline for the return of the assessment item. Requests for Assessment Adjustment (Assessment Extension and Extenuating Circumstances Application) should be submitted via ANUHub.
Referencing Requirements
The Academic Skills website has information to assist you with your writing and assessments. The website includes information about Academic Integrity including referencing requirements for different disciplines. There is also information on Plagiarism and different ways to use source material. Any use of artificial intelligence must be properly referenced. Failure to properly cite use of Generative AI will be considered a breach of academic integrity.
Returning Assignments
Please see the relevant assessment task details under the Assessment tab/section.
Extensions and Penalties
Extensions and late submission of assessment pieces are covered by the Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure The Course Convener may grant extensions for assessment pieces that are not examinations or take-home examinations. If you need an extension, you must request an extension in writing on or before the due date. If you have documented and appropriate medical evidence that demonstrates you were not able to request an extension on or before the due date, you may be able to request it after the due date.Resubmission of Assignments
Unless specified otherwise in the assignment requirements, resubmissions are permitted up until the due date and time, but not allowed afterwards.
Privacy Notice
The ANU has made a number of third party, online, databases available for students to use. Use of each online database is conditional on student end users first agreeing to the database licensor’s terms of service and/or privacy policy. Students should read these carefully. In some cases student end users will be required to register an account with the database licensor and submit personal information, including their: first name; last name; ANU email address; and other information. In cases where student end users are asked to submit ‘content’ to a database, such as an assignment or short answers, the database licensor may only use the student’s ‘content’ in accordance with the terms of service — including any (copyright) licence the student grants to the database licensor. Any personal information or content a student submits may be stored by the licensor, potentially offshore, and will be used to process the database service in accordance with the licensors terms of service and/or privacy policy. If any student chooses not to agree to the database licensor’s terms of service or privacy policy, the student will not be able to access and use the database. In these circumstances students should contact their lecturer to enquire about alternative arrangements that are available.Distribution of grades policy
Academic Quality Assurance Committee monitors the performance of students, including attrition, further study and employment rates and grade distribution, and College reports on quality assurance processes for assessment activities, including alignment with national and international disciplinary and interdisciplinary standards, as well as qualification type learning outcomes. Since first semester 1994, ANU uses a grading scale for all courses. This grading scale is used by all academic areas of the University.Support for students
The University offers students support through several different services. You may contact the services listed below directly or seek advice from your Course Convener, Student Administrators, or your College and Course representatives (if applicable).- ANU Health, safety & wellbeing for medical services, counselling, mental health and spiritual support
- ANU Diversity and inclusion for students with a disability or ongoing or chronic illness
- ANU Dean of Students for confidential, impartial advice and help to resolve problems between students and the academic or administrative areas of the University
- ANU Academic Skills and Learning Centre supports you make your own decisions about how you learn and manage your workload.
- ANU Counselling Centre promotes, supports and enhances mental health and wellbeing within the University student community.
- ANUSA supports and represents undergraduate and ANU College students
- PARSA supports and represents postgraduate and research students
Convener
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Research Interests
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Dr Nabila Nisha
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