UP199: Foundations of Urban Sustainability

UP199: Foundations of Urban Sustainability

Time: Tues & Thurs, 2:00-3:20

Room: TBH 225

Instructor: Robert Boyer (rhboyer2@illinois.edu)

Course Description

How can we create healthy, safe, and inclusive communities without compromising the earth’s limited natural resources? This course explores the concept of sustainability by addressing the tensions that exist between our built environment (our regions, cities, and homes) and the natural systems that support all life on earth. The course will explore ways we can begin to resolve global, regional, and local environmental issues by better understanding where we choose to live and how we choose live there. Specific topics include responses to climate destabilization, green infrastructure and urban systems, sustainability governance, ecological communities, ecological construction, water conservation, energy production and consumption, resource efficient home appliances, and low-toxin interior design.