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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.

Assessment methods for nature-based solutions

By studying this module you can gain an increased knowledge and a deeper understanding of possibilities and challenges for valuing and assessing the impacts of nature-based solutions. Assessment and valuation methods are presented and discussed in the context of different perspectives on cities, nature and innovation.

Governance strategies for nature-based solutions

By studying this module you can gain an increased knowledge and a deeper understanding of governing the implementation of nature-based solutions. The concept of governance is presented through examples and the role of collaboration and engaging citizens and communities is highlighted.

Business models for nature-based solutions

By studying this module you can gain an increased knowledge and a deeper understanding of enabling finance and developing business models for nature-based solutions. The importance of business models and role of financing is investigated and illustrated through examples and experiences with nature-based solutions.

Innovation pathways for nature-based solutions

By studying this module you can gain an increased knowledge and a deeper understanding of innovation pathways for nature-based solutions. The role of visions and pathways is discussed with examples of nature-based solutions and different ways of working with nature, cities and innovation.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

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

Learn about urban green spaces, sustainability, and climate change

Learners say this course provides a broad overview of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS), and is helpful for beginners in the field. Students appreciate the informative videos, case studies, and readings, which cover a wide range of topics related to NBS, sustainability, and climate change. The course also includes a compendium of resources and a peer review assignment, helping learners connect with others in the field and deepen their understanding of the material. However, some students feel the course could have gone more in depth and provided more practical, hands-on information about implementing NBS.

Students generally find the course accessible and appropriate for beginners, but some wish it could have gone more in depth.

"It was a great course with very interesting topics in easy to digest chunks. I wished to have more interaction with others, especially the teachers!"

"I personally believe that the course provides you a broader vision of NBS and helps you know more about how to implement NBS in your city."

"The course is different from others and refreshing to see new fields. When I took this course felt most of the content is repeated in videos."

Learners appreciate the practical examples and case studies provided in the course.

"Great course for ppl interestend in NBS for sustainable and resilient urban future! Thanks for everything."

"Really interesting to see examples of nature based solutions from all over the world."

"I enjoyed the course very much and hope I can use this experience to my city and share with my colleagues and neighbours. Thanks very much for it"

Students find the course content informative and well-structured.

"Very interesting course. I learned a lot of new information. Thank you to the teachers and staff for quality course."

"It is an inspiring course, I've learned new things about nature-based solutions, especially from business models and innovation pathways."

"Excellent overview of nature based solutions and what is involved in achieving it in a scaled manner, for adapting to climate change"

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

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 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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

What's inside

Syllabus

Good to know

Save this course

Reviews summary

Learn about urban green spaces, sustainability, and climate change

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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