Sustainable Urban Systems - The German Way

3 credits · Undergraduate

Sustainability captures the social goal for people to co-exist on Earth over a long period of time. While the definitions of this term are disputed and have shifted with cultural context and time, sustainability usually involves an environmental, economic and social dimension. These different dimensions collide in unique and often competing ways in urban areas worldwide, including the San Francisco Bay Area and Berlin. As climate change, technological innovation, and environmental pollution exacerbate many urban problems - from housing affordability and transportation congestion to economic vitality and social justice - urban areas around the globe come up with different ideas and answers. This course explores and compares how the San Francisco Bay Area and Berlin approach change in urban systems to improve the equity, resilience, and sustainability of communities. The course sequence covers basic methods of scientific inquiry and ethical reasoning, skillsets in data-driven and qualitative analysis, and practical experience working with local partners on urban challenges that can empower students to drive responsible systems change in their future careers.