As urban populations continue to grow rapidly, cities face increasing challenges to maintain and improve the quality of life while ensuring sustainable resource management. By 2050, it is expected that nearly 70 percent of the global population will live in urban areas, placing immense pressure on infrastructure, natural resources, and the environment. To address these challenges, cities worldwide are adopting sustainable practices and integrating advanced technologies to create resilient, efficient, and liveable urban spaces.

This module explores the principles and strategies essential for promoting sustainability in urban environments. It covers a range of topics, including circular and regenerative construction, biophilic design, and sustainable value chain management. Students will learn how digital tools, such as IoT and GIS, are applied for data-driven urban planning and environmental monitoring, enhancing the ability to make informed decisions for sustainable city development. Through life cycle assessments, material and energy flow analysis, and feasibility studies, students will gain insights into evaluating and improving urban systems from economic, social, and environmental perspectives.

The course equips students with the ability to critically assess and design sustainable urban systems. They will analyze real-world cases and explore innovative urban solutions, from smart infrastructure to green building practices, which contribute to cities' climate resilience and circular economy objectives. By the end of the module, students will possess a solid understanding of sustainable urban planning concepts, the role of advanced technologies, and the methodologies to create urban environments that are efficient, resilient, and environmentally sound.

This module provides students with essential skills in system analysis methodologies and the ability to evaluate urban sustainability using holistic approaches. Through challenge-based learning, students will apply their knowledge in practical contexts, fostering skills in model analysis, sustainability assessment, and the design of sustainable value chains aligned with modern urban challenges.

The "Climate Change and Built Environment" module explores the relationship between climate change and the design, construction, and management of sustainable urban environments. With increasing awareness of climate change's impacts on urban infrastructure, this course provides students with the knowledge and skills to develop buildings and cities that are resilient, resource-efficient, and environmentally sound.

The module covers fundamental concepts of climate science and resilience, delving into the challenges that urban areas face in adapting to and mitigating climate change. Key topics include green building standards, renewable energy integration, and life cycle assessment (LCA) of construction materials and processes. Students will explore innovative approaches to sustainable construction, including the use of IoT and GIS for environmental monitoring, as well as policies and financial incentives that support green buildings.

Through practical projects, case studies, and policy analysis, students will learn to design and evaluate climate-resilient buildings and infrastructure, apply green building certifications, and employ sustainable design principles. By the end of this course, students will be equipped to make informed decisions that contribute to reducing the built environment's carbon footprint and enhancing urban resilience to climate impacts.

The "Waste Treatment" module provides an in-depth exploration of sustainable waste management practices, focusing on recycling, e-waste management, and wastewater treatment. As global waste generation continues to increase, effective treatment and recovery of waste materials are essential to minimize environmental impacts and support resource efficiency. This module prepares students to understand, evaluate, and implement advanced waste treatment methods aligned with circular economy principles.

The course covers fundamental concepts in waste management, examining the challenges and opportunities in recycling different waste streams, including plastics, metals, and electronic waste. Students will learn about the environmental and health implications of e-waste, and explore advanced recycling and recovery techniques aimed at maximizing resource recovery while reducing hazards. The module also provides a comprehensive understanding of wastewater treatment technologies, including biological, chemical, and advanced treatment processes for managing contaminants, emerging pollutants, and sludge.

Through case studies, practical labs, and policy analysis, students will develop competencies in life cycle assessment (LCA), waste prevention, and the application of sustainable design principles. By the end of this module, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to design effective waste treatment strategies, promote circular economy practices, and contribute to sustainable development in waste management.