Learn the challenges of local governments to adapt to new technologies, energy systems, modes of transportation and more in order to build the sustainable cities of the 21st century.
The basics of sustainability
The Sustainable Development Goals and how they apply to cities
What constitutes a sustainable city
How various sectors contribute to modern, sustainable urban development
Enhanced Understanding of Urban Challenges: Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the technological, energy, and transportation-related challenges local governments face in building sustainable cities.
Ability to Identify Sustainable Solutions: Learners will be able to evaluate and recommend innovative technologies, renewable energy systems, and transportation models to address urban sustainability issues.
Improved Policy Analysis Skills: Participants will develop the ability to analyze and propose effective policy and governance frameworks that support the adoption of sustainable practices in urban settings.
Practical Implementation Strategies: Learners will acquire actionable strategies to plan, implement, and manage sustainable urban projects, balancing economic, social, and environmental goals.
Strengthened Collaboration Skills: Participants will be equipped to foster partnerships among government, industry, and community stakeholders to drive collaborative efforts toward sustainable city development.
In-depth Video Lectures
Step-by-Step Guides
Detailed Case Study Analyses
Interactive Project Simulations
Certificate of Completion
Lessons
Introduction to the SDGs
5 Sections0 minutes
This lesson briefly describes the importance of creating sustainable living spaces and what we can expect from a future that is built on the principles of economic prosperity, social inclusion and environmental sustainability.
1 video1 reading2 assignments1 summary
Why Cities? The Importance of SDG 11
5 Sections0 minutes
Professor Sachs talks about the ideas and thought-processes that are used to work towards achieving sustainable cities. He elaborates the circumstances in which SDG 11 was created, and uses current data to estimate future global needs and the expectations that must be fulfilled to establish sustainable cities. The outcomes of modifying and designing cities for the increasing world population are also elaborated.
1 video1 reading2 assignments1 summary
The 10-Point Agenda for 21st-Century Cities
5 Sections0 minutes
Professor Sachs discusses the pros and cons of advancements in science and technology. He outlines a 10-point agenda for sustainable cities and discusses each topic individually to elaborate the breadth and depth of this complex issue.
1 video1 reading2 assignments1 summary
Urban Environment and Energy Systems
5 Sections0 minutes
Professor Sachs highlights the escalating issues due to climate change and pollution and establishes the urgent need to achieve clean and smart cities. To illustrate the limited timeline under which sustainability must be achieved, he uses current data to forecast possible future solutions. This lesson also includes examples of new methods and cutting-edge technologies that can be used to achieve SDG 11.
1 video1 reading2 assignments1 summary
Cities as Hubs of Knowledge
5 Sections0 minutes
This lesson draws on the cross-cutting issues previously discussed, including the importance of developing urban settlements into smart, shared spaces that foster creativity and knowledge growth.