Water and Sustainability in the Built Environment

Course Description

Welcome to this exciting and innovative course on "Water and Sustainability in the Built Environment," offered by UBCx. This interdisciplinary program delves into the crucial intersection of water management and sustainable urban development, using the city of Vancouver, a global leader in green design, as a prime example.

Throughout this course, you'll be immersed in a rich learning experience that combines engaging lectures with documentary-style videos featuring a diverse array of experts. From architects and planners to artists and engineers, you'll gain insights from professionals who have implemented real-world solutions linking water and sustainability in urban settings.

What Students Will Learn

• Core concepts of urban sustainability, including the "water nexus" and "regenerative sustainability"
• Blue-green building design principles and practices
• The role of water in eco-health and environmentally-sensitive urban planning
• Techniques for urban stream regeneration
• Water ethics and its importance in sustainable urban development
• Innovative approaches to integrating water management in urban infrastructure

Prerequisites

This is an introductory-level course, and no prior knowledge or specific skills are required. Anyone with an interest in sustainable urban development, water management, or environmental studies can participate and benefit from this course.

Course Content

• The water-related dimensions of environmentally sustainable urbanism
• Case studies of innovative green buildings, such as the Center for Interactive Research on Sustainability
• Wastewater-to-energy systems and their implementation in urban areas
• Landscape infrastructure and waterfront revitalization projects
• Community engagement in urban stream restoration
• The concept of a 'watershed mind' and its artistic representation
• Practical applications of water sustainability in urban planning and design

Who This Course Is For

• Urban planners and designers
• Environmental studies students
• Architecture and engineering professionals
• Sustainability enthusiasts
• City officials and policymakers
• Anyone interested in green urban development and water management

Real-World Applications

The knowledge and skills gained from this course can be applied in various real-world scenarios:

• Developing sustainable urban planning strategies
• Designing water-efficient buildings and infrastructure
• Implementing community-based water conservation projects
• Advising on policy decisions related to urban water management
• Creating innovative solutions for water-related urban challenges
• Integrating water sustainability principles into existing urban environments
• Fostering community engagement in environmental initiatives

Conclusion

By completing this course, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and inspiration to contribute to the creation of more sustainable, water-conscious urban environments, whether you're a professional in the field or simply passionate about creating a greener future for our cities.