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Urban Nature

Connecting Cities, Sustainability and Innovation

Prof. Harriet Bulkeley, Dr. Bernadett Kiss, Dr. Helen Toxopeus, Prof. Christine Wamsler, Dr. Yuliya Voytenko Palgan, and Kes McCormick

How can we work with nature to design and build our cities?

This course explores urban nature and nature-based solutions in cities in Europe and around the world. We connect together the key themes of cities, nature, sustainability and innovation. We discuss how to assess what nature-based solutions can achieve in cities. We examine how innovation is taking place in cities in relation to nature. And we analyse the potential of nature-based solutions to help respond to climate change and sustainability challenges.

How can we work with nature to design and build our cities?

This course was launched in January 2020, and it was updated in September 2021 with new podcasts, films and publications. The course is produced by Lund University in cooperation with partners from Naturvation – a collaborative project on finding synergies between cities, nature, sustainability and innovation. The course features researchers, practitioners and entrepreneurs from a range organisations.

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What's inside

Syllabus

International overview of nature-based solutions

By studying this module you can gain an increased knowledge and a deeper understanding of nature-based solutions in an international and European context. The concept of nature-based solutions is presented and discussed with examples that explore the opportunities, benefits and challenges associated with mainstreaming nature-based solutions.

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what should give you pause

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Develops business models, financing, and innovation pathways for nature-based solutions, which is relevant to environmental sustainability

Examines the assessment of nature-based solutions, which is essential for understanding their impact and effectiveness

Taught by experts and practitioners in urban nature and nature-based solutions, which ensures high-quality instruction and industry insights

International overview of nature-based solutions, making it relevant to various contexts and regions

Focuses on the governance strategies for nature-based solutions, which are crucial for effective implementation

Requires explicit background knowledge in related fields, which may limit accessibility for some learners

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Reviews summary

Urban nature: connecting cities, sustainability and innovation

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and insightful overview of urban nature and nature-based solutions. Students often highlight its relevance to current sustainability and climate challenges, praising the diverse international examples and perspectives from various experts. The September 2021 update, which introduced new podcasts, films, and publications, is frequently noted as a significant improvement, making the content even more engaging and up-to-date. While many appreciate the well-structured content and clear presentation of complex ideas, a few reviews suggest that for those seeking deep, practical application, some sections might feel like a general introduction rather than an in-depth guide.

Features diverse global case studies and expert perspectives.

"The international examples presented throughout the modules broadened my perspective immensely on urban nature."

"I really valued the insights from researchers and practitioners from different parts of the world."

"Learning about various approaches to NBS across continents was a major strength of the course."

Course content significantly improved with recent additions.

"The September 2021 updates, especially the new podcasts, made the course much more current and engaging."

"It's great to see the course being actively maintained; the new films added a lot to my learning experience."

"I truly appreciated the effort put into updating the materials, it shows responsiveness to evolving knowledge."

Provides a strong foundation in nature-based solutions.

"This course offers an excellent overview of nature-based solutions, perfectly suited for understanding the core concepts."

"I found the content very insightful, covering a broad range of topics from governance to business models."

"It's a great starting point to grasp how cities, nature, and sustainability intersect."

Forum discussions sometimes lack active participation.

"I found the course interesting, but the forum discussions weren't as lively or engaging as I'd hoped."

"Participation in the online discussions seemed low, which impacted the collaborative learning experience."

"While the content is good, I missed having more peer interaction and debate."

Offers theoretical grounding, but some desire more practical application.

"While the theoretical framework is solid, I was hoping for more 'how-to' guidance for real-world implementation."

"I learned a lot about concepts, but sometimes wished for deeper dives into practical project execution."

"For an academic overview, it's fantastic, but those seeking hands-on strategies might find it less detailed."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Urban Nature: Connecting Cities, Sustainability and Innovation with these activities:

Review Urban Planning and Design Principles

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Familiarize yourself with fundamental principles of urban planning and design to better understand the context for nature-based solutions.

Browse courses on Urban Planning

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Review textbooks or online resources on urban planning and design
Attend a workshop or lecture on urban planning principles

Review Urban Nature and Sustainability Concepts

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Review key concepts and definitions related to urban nature and sustainability to strengthen foundational understanding.

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Explore online resources on urban nature and sustainability
Read academic articles or books introducing these concepts

Organize Course Resources and Notes

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Keep track of course materials, notes, and assignments for easy reference and review.

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Create a dedicated folder or notebook for course materials
Regularly organize and file lecture notes, readings, and assignments

Five other activities

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Attend a Conference on Nature-Based Solutions

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Immerse yourself in the latest research and connect with experts and practitioners in the field of nature-based solutions.

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Research upcoming conferences related to nature-based solutions
Attend presentations, workshops, and panel discussions
Network with attendees and exchange ideas

Learn Assessment Methods for Nature-Based Solutions

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Follow tutorials and case studies demonstrating methods for assessing the impacts and benefits of nature-based solutions in cities.

Browse courses on Assessment

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Search for online tutorials or webinars on nature-based solutions assessment
Review examples of assessment frameworks and tools

Participate in a Nature-Based Community Project

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Gain practical experience and contribute to the implementation of nature-based solutions in your local community.

Browse courses on Community Involvement

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Identify local organizations or initiatives working on nature-based solutions
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities
Attend volunteer events and participate in activities

Develop a Vision for Nature-Based Innovation

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Create a vision statement or roadmap outlining innovative ways to integrate nature-based solutions into urban planning and development.

Browse courses on Visioning

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Identify challenges and opportunities for nature-based solutions in a specific urban context
Research and explore best practices from other cities
Brainstorm ideas and develop a vision for how nature-based solutions can address urban challenges
Create a visual representation or written document summarizing the vision

Develop a Proposal for a Nature-Based Solution

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Propose a nature-based solution to address a specific urban challenge, outlining its design, implementation, and potential benefits.

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Identify an urban challenge suitable for a nature-based solution
Research and develop a concept for a nature-based solution
Create a project proposal outlining the solution's design, implementation plan, and expected outcomes

Career center

Learners who complete Urban Nature: Connecting Cities, Sustainability and Innovation will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Nature-Based Solutions Consultant

Nature-Based Solutions Consultants help organizations to develop and implement nature-based solutions. They have a deep understanding of nature-based solutions and how they can be used to address environmental, social, and economic challenges. This course can help Nature-Based Solutions Consultants to further develop their knowledge and skills. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nature-Based Solutions Consultant

Landscape Architect

Landscape Architects design outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and campuses. They use their knowledge of plants, soil, and climate to create functional and visually appealing spaces. This course can help Landscape Architects understand how to incorporate nature-based solutions into their designs. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Landscape Architects create more sustainable and resilient landscapes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect

Urban Planner

Urban Planners develop plans for the use of land in cities and towns. They consider factors such as population growth, economic development, and environmental sustainability. This course can help Urban Planners understand how to incorporate nature-based solutions into their plans. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Urban Planners create more sustainable and resilient cities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Conservation Scientist

Conservation Scientists study the conservation of plants, animals, and ecosystems. They develop and implement conservation strategies. This course can help Conservation Scientists understand how to use nature-based solutions to conserve biodiversity. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Conservation Scientists develop more effective and sustainable conservation strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Conservation Scientist

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists study the environment and its interactions with humans. They work to protect the environment and human health. This course can help Environmental Scientists understand how to use nature-based solutions to address environmental problems. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Environmental Scientists develop more effective and sustainable environmental policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Green Infrastructure Planner

Green Infrastructure Planners design and implement green infrastructure projects. Green infrastructure is a network of natural and man-made elements that provides environmental, social, and economic benefits. This course can help Green Infrastructure Planners understand how to incorporate nature-based solutions into their designs. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Green Infrastructure Planners create more sustainable and resilient green infrastructure projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Green Infrastructure Planner

Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. They use their knowledge of engineering and science to protect the environment and human health. This course can help Environmental Engineers understand how to use nature-based solutions to address environmental problems. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Environmental Engineers develop more effective and sustainable solutions to environmental problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability Consultants help organizations to improve their environmental, social, and economic performance. They develop and implement sustainability strategies. This course can help Sustainability Consultants understand how to incorporate nature-based solutions into their work. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Sustainability Consultants develop more effective and sustainable sustainability strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant

Ecosystem Restoration Specialist

Ecosystem Restoration Specialists restore damaged ecosystems. They use a variety of techniques to restore the natural functions of ecosystems. This course can help Ecosystem Restoration Specialists understand how to use nature-based solutions to restore ecosystems. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Ecosystem Restoration Specialists develop more effective and sustainable restoration strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Ecosystem Restoration Specialist

Geographer

Geographers study the Earth's surface and its human and natural processes. They use their knowledge to solve problems and make decisions about the use of land. This course can help Geographers understand how to incorporate nature-based solutions into their work. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Geographers develop more sustainable and resilient land use plans.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geographer

Community Organizer

Community Organizers work with communities to address social and environmental issues. They develop and implement community-based projects. This course can help Community Organizers understand how to use nature-based solutions to address community issues. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Community Organizers develop more effective and sustainable community projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Community Organizer

Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research and analyze public policies. They develop recommendations to improve policies. This course can help Policy Analysts understand how to incorporate nature-based solutions into public policies. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Policy Analysts develop more effective and sustainable public policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Lawyers specialize in environmental law. They represent clients in environmental cases and develop legal strategies to protect the environment. This course can help Environmental Lawyers understand how to use nature-based solutions to address environmental problems. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Environmental Lawyers develop more effective and sustainable legal strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Lawyer

Climate Adaptation Specialist

Climate Adaptation Specialists help communities and organizations to adapt to the impacts of climate change. They develop and implement adaptation strategies. This course can help Climate Adaptation Specialists understand how to use nature-based solutions to adapt to climate change. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Climate Adaptation Specialists develop more effective and sustainable adaptation strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Adaptation Specialist

Environmental Educator

Environmental Educators teach people about the environment and its importance. They develop and implement educational programs. This course can help Environmental Educators understand how to incorporate nature-based solutions into their teaching. The course covers topics such as the assessment of nature-based solutions, governance strategies, and business models. This knowledge can help Environmental Educators develop more effective and engaging educational programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Educator

Reading list

We've selected 15 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Urban Nature: Connecting Cities, Sustainability and Innovation.

Biophilic Cities

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Provides a comprehensive overview of urban nature and nature-based solutions in cities. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about this topic.

Urban Nature

Connecting Cities, Sustainability and Innovation

Two deals to help you save

What's inside

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Urban nature: connecting cities, sustainability and innovation

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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