Urban Sustainability

Catalog description

EARTH 412 examines the relationships between people and the environment in the context of urban spaces with international context, United States national conditions and perspectives, and local implementation and practice. The course explores the fundamental question of "What is urban sustainability?" by: First, framing sustainability through the unique aspects of urban sustainability including political, economic, and social challenges; and investigating the roots of unsustainability and possible ways to address it. Second, the dimensions of sustainability will introduce urban food production and food systems issues; challenges linking affordable housing and transportation alternatives; urban waste management problems; and urban water systems incorporation of green infrastructure and low-impact development research and implementation. And third, improving sustainability with an introduction to industrial ecology; the role of intermediaries and civic engagement; and an examination of the role of government policy in addressing urban sustainability through legislation, regulation, and judicial action. Concepts of sustainable development principles, justice and equity, urban food policy, affordable housing, transportation options, water and green infrastructure, waste management, industrial ecology, sustainable design, and community development will be addressed via in class activities and (virtual or in-person) field trips.