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An Introduction to Sustainable Development in the Built Environment
Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:30:29
Abstract
In 2015, the UN Conference in Paris shaped future world objectives to tackle climate change.Today, the world is facing the reality of surpassing the 1.5°C warming threshold, and the built environment faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities.This course engages students in critical discussions on sustainable development within regenerative, resilient and adaptive built environments.
Objective
This seminar-style course emphasizes critical analysis and student-led discussions. Participants will engage with recent research papers, deliver concise presentations, and collaboratively explore strategies for sustainable development in the context of a world that has surpassed the 1.5°C global temperature increase. The learning objectives are: • Develop a holistic understanding of what sustainable development is and how it has evolved over time. • Understand the post-1.5°C context by exploring environmental and socio-economic implications for the built environment. • Analyze and critically discuss current research and case studies related to regenerative practices, which have positive impacts on social, economic and environmental systems. • Position the work of architects and engineers in a post-1.5°C world and be able to propose appropriate solutions and strategies.
Content
The seminar consists of 12 sessions, each focusing on a specific topic. Prior to each session, students will be assigned 2-3 relevant research papers to read. Sessions will begin with student presentations ( 2 groups x 3 students) summarizing the key messages, followed by an open discussion. The following topics give an overview of the themes to be explored during the course. Introduction to history and development of sustainable development framework Overview of methods used to estimate environmental, social and economic impacts - LCA, sLCA, LCC, MFA Net Zero buildings -Construction and operation Policy Frameworks and Governance Circular economy Degrowth Challenges and opportunities: climate adaptation and resilience -Global South vs. Global North Social Equity and Environmental Justice Sufficiency
Resources
Lecture Notes
All relevant information will be online available before the lectures. For each lecture slides of the lecture will be provided.
Literature
A list of the basic literature will be offered on a specific online platform, that could be used by all students attending the lectures.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 60
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | An Introduction to Sustainable Development in the Built Environment |
|
2 h weekly |