K6ET 2055 - Cities in a Changing Climate

Climate change is transforming the conditions under which cities develop and operate. Changes in the climate system are altering water resources, reshaping coastlines and landscapes, increasing environmental hazards, and redefining the role of Georesources in urban development and ecological transitions. This course provides the scientific foundations needed to understand these transformations and their implications for cities, from the risks associated with climate-related hazards to the new opportunities that can support urban transitions. Students will develop a scientific understanding of how climate change is reshaping cities and their futures.

No prior knowledge is required. The course is accessible to students from all disciplinary backgrounds.

Each session lasts 2 hours and combines lectures with discussion. The course progressively links key concepts from climate science, hydrology, and Earth sciences to contemporary urban challenges, highlighting the ways in which scientific knowledge can inform our understanding of cities in a changing climate.

• Participation and engagement in class discussions 20%
• City Case study (group work) 80%
• Oral presentation of the selected city and project framework 40%
• Final written report 40%

Working in groups, students will conduct a case study of a city of their choice. Drawing on concepts introduced throughout the course, they will analyze how climate and environmental change are affecting the city, identify key hazards and risks, examine relevant resource and georesource issues, and discuss implications for its future development and ecological transition.