Climate change is regarded as one of the most pressing challenges of our time, presenting complex and far-reaching consequences for our planet, its ecosystems, and human societies. For architects and urban planners, grasping the fundamentals of climate change is imperative, not only to comprehend its intricacies but also to integrate sustainable practices into designs and strategies.
This course is dedicated to first-year Master of Urban Planning students. It serves as a comprehensive exploration into the multifaceted realm of climate change, delving into its origins, impacts, and the concerted efforts being made globally to mitigate its effects. Through a structured examination of key concepts, environmental impacts, sustainability practices, and regional perspectives, an aim is set to equip with the knowledge and tools necessary to confront this formidable challenge.
· Understanding the Fundamentals
In the opening chapters, a journey is embarked upon to understand the fundamentals of climate change. The historical context and evolution of climate change awareness are delved into, elucidating the key components and factors driving this global phenomenon. By familiarizing with the terminology and concepts established by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the groundwork is laid for a nuanced comprehension of the science, impacts, and mitigation strategies associated with climate change.
· Assessing Environmental Impacts and Risks
The exploration continues as the anticipated risks and impacts of climate change are assessed, scrutinizing its profound consequences on ecosystems, communities, and economies. The sources and implications of greenhouse gas emissions are examined, as well as strategies for mitigating their effects, including the mitigation of Urban Heat Islands (UHIs) through innovative urban planning approaches.
· Embracing Sustainability Practices and Technologies
In the pursuit of sustainable solutions, attention is turned to the realm of sustainability practices and technologies. From sustainable urban planning and waste management to the exploration of renewable energy sources and bioenergy, a spectrum of possibilities for reducing emissions and fostering resilient, green cities is uncovered.
· Learning from Case Studies and Regional Perspectives
As progress is made, inspiration is drawn from real-world case studies and regional perspectives, gleaning insights from successful mitigation and adaptation initiatives across different contexts. Through an examination of best practices in greenhouse gas control, climate forecasting, water resource management, and regional adaptation strategies, an understanding of the diverse approaches to tackling climate change is enriched.
· Towards a Resilient Future
In conclusion, this module serves as a call to action, urging the leveraging of knowledge and creativity to address the challenges posed by climate change. By integrating sustainable practices into designs, policies, and communities, a more resilient and equitable future for generations to come can be built.
- Dr.: Dr. Darda Bencheikh