Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Green Cities and Urban Sustainability

• Definitions and global trends in green cities and sustainable urbanism

• Pillars of sustainability: environmental, economic, and social

• Green city typologies and transformation pathways

• Role of cities in addressing climate change and biodiversity loss

• Case Study: Comparative review of leading global green cities

Module 2: Urban Environmental Planning and Resource Efficiency

• Sustainable land use and compact urban form

• Renewable energy and energy-efficient building strategies

• Urban water and waste management for sustainability

• Tools for assessing environmental footprints and carbon emissions

• Group Exercise: Urban environmental performance assessment

Module 3: Nature-Based Solutions and Urban Resilience

• Urban ecosystems, green infrastructure, and biodiversity corridors

• Nature-based solutions for stormwater, heat reduction, and air quality

• Blue-green infrastructure and urban agriculture

• Ecosystem services valuation in planning

• Simulation: Designing a green infrastructure plan for a city district

Module 4: Sustainable Mobility and Low-Carbon Infrastructure

• Active transport (walking, cycling) and public transit systems

• Urban mobility planning and emissions reduction strategies

• Green building codes and energy performance standards

• Circular economy principles in infrastructure development

• Practical Exercise: Planning a low-carbon urban mobility network

Module 5: Policy Frameworks, Financing, and Monitoring Sustainability

• Urban sustainability policies at local, national, and global levels

• Accessing climate finance and green investment mechanisms

• Monitoring tools: ISO standards, SDG 11 indicators, GHG accounting

• Stakeholder partnerships for green city implementation

• Group Activity: Developing a green city action plan and M&E framework