Nature and the city

Drawing on urban ecology, biodiversity science, socio-ecological systems research, and environmental governance, the course investigates the conditions that shape biodiversity patterns and ecosystem functioning in cities. Through a combination of theoretical perspectives, policy debates, and international case studies, students explore the strategies and governance approaches that can support more resilient and biodiverse urban environments. Particular attention is given to the transformative changes needed to create resilient, inclusive, and nature-positive urban futures, in line with emerging European and global biodiversity and sustainability agendas.

To acquire the basic knowledge required to understand the key issues relating to the interaction between humans and the living world in urban environments. To develop analytical skills based on an interdisciplinary approach.

Ex-cathedra lectures; videos; podcasts; readings of scientific articles (in English and French) and documents aimed at public authorities and the general public. Group discussions and support to the drafting of a policy brief.

Support(s) de cours

• Université virtuelle

Contacts

M. Sonia VANDERHOEVEN : sonia.vanderhoeven@ulb.be

Campus

Plaine

Méthode(s) d'évaluation

• Examen écrit
• Examen pratique
• Présentation orale
• Travail de groupe

Examen écrit

• Question ouverte à réponse courte
• Question ouverte à développement long
• Question visuelle

Examen pratique

• Examen hors-session

Présentation orale

Travail de groupe

Students will be required to produce a policy brief and present it to the whole class and the lecturer.

Construction de la note (en ce compris, la pondération des notes partielles)

• Production and presentation of a policy brief: 40%
• Students will be required to produce a policy brief and present it to the whole class and the lecturer.

Langue(s) d'évaluation

• anglais