MODULE TYPE: SDG11 

MODULE DESCRIPTION

The Urban Environment micro-module addresses and works on the environmental challenges inherent to sustainable and resilient cities, responding to Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities – of the United Nations, namely regarding the: reduction of the adverse environmental impact of cities, with a special attention to air quality, water and waste management; reduction of the number of deaths and the number of people affected by natural disasters; increase of the number of cities adopting and implementing integrated policies and plans towards resource efficiency, mitigation and adaptation to climate change, resilience to disasters; support positive economic, social and environmental relationships between urban, peri-urban and rural areas. New and innovative approaches to cities are needed and will be worked under this Micro-Module, which join more technologically based solutions, such as grey water systems or smart mobility solutions, with nature-based solutions, and with circular economy practices.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The overall goal is to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to understand the environmental challenges that cities are facing, as well as the sustainable solutions they can adopt.

At the end of the micro-module, students will be able to:

» understand the functioning of cities as a living and complex organism, and in close interaction and dependence on the surrounding environment, particularly in terms of material, energy, water, air emissions and waste flows;

» assess the cities efficiency and performance through relevant indicators;

» contribute to the identification of opportunities to promote the efficient use of energy, water and other natural resources;

» to propose adequate technologies, infrastructures, plans and policies to transform urban areas in resilient and healthier communities and to improve the quality of life of citizens.

Module Level: Basic

Degree level: Master

Language: English

Study mode: Online

SDG11 Theme: Energy and sustainability; Resilient communities

Open to Life Long Learners: Yes

ECTS: 2

Semester: Fall

Starting Date: December 5, 2022

Finishing Date: January 2, 2023