Want to make your city a better place for everyone? Let residents have a say! Espoo, Finland did just that, collecting views from over 6,600 residents through the My Espoo on the Map survey. The data produced practical suggestions, like covering a motorway with a green deck and developing riverside areas, and influenced the urban plan for a new neighborhood. Researchers and urban planners worked together using the SoftGIS method, improving the prioritization process to focus on residents' hot spots. The pandemic has changed our view on living, but good urban planning still considers the environment's effect on well-being.

Are you interested in making a difference in the development of your community? Do you have a passion for creating sustainable and livable environments? If so, a career in Regional Planning might be the perfect fit for you! Regional Planners are responsible for developing and implementing plans and policies that shape the physical, social, and economic development of a region. They work with communities, government agencies, and businesses to create plans that promote growth, improve transportation, and protect natural resources. One of the most exciting aspects of a career in Regional Planning is the opportunity to make a real impact on the world around you. For example, a Regional Planner might work on a project that creates a new park or green space in an urban area, or develop a plan for a new transit system that reduces traffic congestion and improves air quality. Typical duties of a Regional Planner might include conducting research and analysis, developing and implementing plans and policies, engaging with stakeholders and the community, and collaborating with other professionals such as architects, engineers, and environmental scientists. There are also many areas of specialization within the field, such as transportation planning, environmental planning, and urban design. To become a Regional Planner, you typically need a Bachelor's degree in a related field such as Urban Planning, Geography, or Environmental Science. Many universities offer undergraduate programs and majors specifically tailored to Regional Planning, such as the Bachelor of Science in Regional Planning at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Helpful personal attributes for a career in Regional Planning include strong communication and collaboration skills, creativity, and a passion for making a positive impact on the world. Job prospects for Regional Planners are strong, with a projected growth rate of 11% over the next decade. There are many potential employers in both the public and private sectors, including government agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations. Notable employers in the field include the United Nations Development Programme, the World Bank, and the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. In summary, a career in Regional Planning offers the opportunity to make a real impact on the world, work on exciting and meaningful projects, and collaborate with a wide range of professionals and stakeholders. If you have a passion for creating sustainable and livable environments, consider exploring a career in Regional Planning today!

The Water Will Come is a gripping and thought-provoking account of the impending disaster that rising sea levels and higher tides are bringing upon our world. Jeff Goodell's journalistic exploration takes us on a journey across twelve countries to show us the devastating effects of global warming. From the disappearance of coastal regions to the inundation of our most historic cities, Goodell's vivid reporting brings to life the reality of a future where hundreds of millions will have to retreat from the world's shores. This is a must-read for anyone interested in the science and impact of climate change. Recommended for environmentalists, climate activists, and anyone interested in the science and impact of global warming. The Water Will Come provides a comprehensive account of the devastating effects of rising sea levels and higher tides on our world. Jeff Goodell's journalistic exploration takes us on a journey across twelve countries, providing vivid scenes of the reality of a future where hundreds of millions will have to retreat from the world's shores. This book is relevant to a wide range of fields of studies, including environmental science, geography, and sustainability, as well as professions such as urban planning and architecture.

Are you interested in creating the cities and communities of tomorrow? Do you have a passion for designing sustainable environments that promote social equity and economic growth? If so, then the field of Urban and Regional Planning might be the perfect fit for you! Urban and Regional Planning is a dynamic and exciting field that combines elements of architecture, engineering, geography, and social science to create thriving communities. By studying Urban and Regional Planning, you will learn how to design and manage cities, towns, and rural areas to ensure they are functional, equitable, and sustainable. One of the most appealing aspects of Urban and Regional Planning is the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives. For example, you might work on projects that improve public transportation, create affordable housing, or promote green spaces and parks. By designing communities that are more walkable, bike-friendly, and accessible, you can help reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions. In recent years, Urban and Regional Planning has also become a hotbed of innovation and research. From smart cities and urban data analytics to participatory planning and community engagement, there are countless exciting areas of study within the field. You might find yourself working with cutting-edge technology, such as 3D modeling and virtual reality, to create more realistic and immersive urban environments. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules in Urban and Regional Planning include courses in urban design, land use planning, environmental planning, transportation planning, and community development. You may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as historic preservation, urban economics, or GIS mapping. After graduation, there are many potential career paths available to Urban and Regional Planning graduates. You might work for a government agency, such as a city planning department or a regional transportation authority. Alternatively, you could work for a private consulting firm, helping clients navigate complex zoning regulations and land use policies. Notable employers in the field include firms like AECOM, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, and Gensler. To succeed in Urban and Regional Planning, it's helpful to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as an interest in social justice and community development. A background in architecture, engineering, geography, or sociology can also be beneficial. With the right combination of skills and passion, you can make a real difference in shaping the cities and communities of tomorrow.

Are you curious about how New York City is slowly sinking? According to a study published in Earth's Future, the immense weight of NYC's buildings is causing the city to sink by 1 to 2 millimeters each year, exacerbating the already existing threats of rising sea levels and intense storms. But that's not all - the study also found that buildings in NYC have the potential to sink as much as 600 millimeters, or almost two feet! Read more about this fascinating study in Smithsonian Magazine.

Climate change poses physical risks to cities, with urban areas being home to over half the world's population. Extreme heat, flooding, drought, and wildfires are projected to increase in severity and frequency. This report, co-written with C40 Cities Climate Leadership, identifies 15 high-potential actions that can work for many types of cities. It suggests that cities begin by defining the most relevant hazards and understanding the risks those hazards pose to their communities. Nature-based solutions, systemic resilience, and equity are important themes explored in this report.

Peter Calthorpe's "Urbanism in the Age of Climate Change" is a visionary work that challenges us to rethink our approach to urban planning. Rather than focusing solely on individual cities, Calthorpe argues for a regional approach that combines green technology and land use transformation to achieve a low carbon economy. With stunning graphics and real-world examples, Calthorpe shows how this integrated approach can lead to not only reduced carbon emissions but also critical lifestyle benefits. This book is a call to action for anyone interested in shaping the future of our cities and our planet. Recommended for urban planners, architects, environmentalists, policymakers, and anyone interested in sustainable development, "Urbanism in the Age of Climate Change" offers a comprehensive and innovative approach to addressing climate change at the regional scale. Drawing on thirty years of experience, Peter Calthorpe synthesizes cutting-edge green technology and land use transformation into a compelling vision for a low carbon economy. This book is particularly relevant for those interested in transit-oriented design, regional planning, and sustainable community development. With its stunning graphics and real-world examples, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to shape the future of our cities and our planet.

Are you passionate about the environment and sustainability? Do you enjoy problem-solving and thinking outside the box? If so, a career in Environmental Planning might be the perfect fit for you! Environmental Planners are professionals who work to balance the needs of people and the environment. They help to develop and implement plans that promote sustainable development, protect natural resources, and improve the quality of life for communities. As an Environmental Planner, you could work on a variety of projects, from designing green spaces and bike lanes in urban areas, to protecting endangered species and habitats in natural areas. You could work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private consulting firms. Typical duties of an Environmental Planner include conducting research and data analysis, developing and implementing policies and regulations, and collaborating with stakeholders to ensure that projects are socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable. There are also many areas of specialization within the field, such as land use planning, climate change adaptation, and transportation planning. To become an Environmental Planner, you will typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as Environmental Science, Geography, or Urban Planning. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include Environmental Studies, Sustainability, and Landscape Architecture. Helpful personal attributes for success in this field include strong communication and collaboration skills, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, and a passion for sustainability and social justice. Job prospects for Environmental Planners are strong, with growth projected in both the public and private sectors. Some notable potential employers include the United Nations, the World Bank, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. Private consulting firms, such as AECOM and CH2M, also offer exciting opportunities for Environmental Planners around the world. So if you're looking for a fulfilling and meaningful career that allows you to make a positive impact on the world, consider a career in Environmental Planning!

Environmental Planning is a field of study that focuses on creating sustainable solutions to the complex environmental challenges facing our world. This fascinating discipline combines aspects of urban planning, environmental science, and social policy to create a unique and exciting area of study. Environmental Planning is all about finding ways to balance the needs of people and the environment. This involves understanding the impact of human activity on the natural world and developing strategies to promote sustainable development. For example, an environmental planner might work to design a new city park that provides recreational opportunities for people while also protecting local wildlife habitats. One of the most interesting aspects of Environmental Planning is the wide range of research and innovation taking place in the field. From developing new technologies to studying the impacts of climate change, Environmental Planning is a dynamic and constantly evolving area of study. Some of the most inspiring academic figures in this field include Rachel Carson, who wrote the groundbreaking book "Silent Spring" and is credited with launching the modern environmental movement, and Bill McKibben, a leading environmental activist and author. At the undergraduate level, students studying Environmental Planning typically take courses in subjects such as environmental policy, ecology, and urban planning. There are also opportunities for further specialization in areas such as sustainable transportation, renewable energy, and environmental law. Real-life examples of exciting careers in this field include working as a sustainability consultant for a major corporation, designing green infrastructure projects for a city government, or leading conservation efforts for a non-profit organization. The potential career paths for graduates in Environmental Planning are numerous and varied. Some popular options include working for government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency or the Department of Energy, as well as consulting firms that specialize in sustainability and environmental planning. Other notable employers include major corporations such as Google, which has made a commitment to becoming carbon-neutral, and conservation organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund. To succeed in Environmental Planning, students should have a strong interest in environmental issues and a desire to make a positive impact on the world. They should also possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with others. With the right combination of skills and passion, a career in Environmental Planning can be both rewarding and fulfilling.

Are you fascinated by the movement of people and goods across cities and countries? Do you want to play a vital role in shaping the future of transportation? Then studying Transportation Planning might be the perfect fit for you! Transportation Planning is a field of study that involves designing and implementing transportation systems that are efficient, safe, and sustainable. It incorporates elements of civil engineering, urban planning, and environmental science to create transportation systems that meet the needs of society. One of the most appealing aspects of Transportation Planning is its real-life applications. For example, transportation planners may design new bike lanes to encourage more people to cycle to work, or they may develop a new public transit system to reduce traffic congestion in a city. These solutions can have a significant impact on people's daily lives, making Transportation Planning a meaningful and rewarding field of study. In recent years, there has been a surge in research and innovation in Transportation Planning. From the rise of autonomous vehicles to the use of big data to optimize transportation systems, there are many exciting developments happening in the field. Well-known academic figures like Susan Shaheen and Robert Cervero have made significant contributions to the field, inspiring new generations of students to pursue careers in Transportation Planning. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in subjects like transportation modeling, traffic engineering, and sustainable transportation. They may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas like public transportation, freight transportation, or transportation safety. Real-life examples of Transportation Planning in action include the development of bike-sharing programs in cities like Paris and New York, and the creation of high-speed rail systems in countries like Japan and China. Upon graduation, Transportation Planning majors can pursue a variety of careers in both the public and private sectors. They may work for government agencies like the Department of Transportation or private consulting firms like AECOM or Arup. Potential roles include transportation planner, traffic engineer, or sustainability consultant. Notable employers in the field include the World Bank, the United Nations, and the European Union. To succeed in Transportation Planning, students should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as an interest in urban planning and environmental sustainability. A background in math and science can also be helpful, as many Transportation Planning courses involve quantitative analysis. With the right skills and passion, students can make a real difference in the world of transportation and help shape the future of our cities and communities.

Discover the controversial and thought-provoking ideas of architect and urban theoretician, Leon Krier, in his book "The Architecture of Community". With fresh insights and practical design guidelines, Krier updates his thinking on creating sustainable, humane, and attractive villages, towns, and cities. Delve into Krier's theories on classical and vernacular urbanism and architecture, and explore his built and unbuilt projects, including the renowned Poundbury in England. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in designing livable communities that meet contemporary needs. Recommended for architects, city planners, and academics, as well as anyone interested in sustainable and livable communities, "The Architecture of Community" provides practical design guidelines and fresh insights on creating attractive and humane villages, towns, and cities. With a focus on classical and vernacular urbanism and architecture, this book is relevant to those studying or working in fields such as architecture, urban planning, environmental studies, and sustainability. It is also a valuable resource for those interested in exploring innovative and practical solutions to the challenges facing our communities today.

Charles Montgomery's Happy City is a refreshing take on urban living, exploring the intersection between urban design and the emerging science of happiness. In this exhilarating journey through some of the world's most dynamic cities, Montgomery meets visionary mayors, architects, activists, and suburbanites who have hacked the design of their own streets and neighborhoods. With new insights from psychology, neuroscience, and Montgomery's own urban experiments, Happy City reveals how our cities can shape our thoughts and behavior. The message is both surprising and hopeful: by retrofitting cities and our own lives for happiness, we can tackle the urgent challenges of our age. Recommended for urban planners, architects, designers, environmentalists, and anyone interested in the intersection between urban design and the emerging science of happiness. The book provides a refreshing perspective on urban living and explores the potential of retrofitting cities and our own lives for happiness. It is also relevant to policymakers, city officials, and activists interested in creating sustainable and livable cities. The book draws on new insights from psychology, neuroscience, and urban experiments to reveal how our cities can shape our thoughts and behavior. Happy City is a must-read for anyone looking to tackle the urgent challenges of our age.

Roofscapes, a startup founded by three MIT architecture students, is using timber structures to turn the pitched roofs of Paris into accessible green spaces. These green spaces provide a way to grow local food, anchor biodiversity, reduce building temperatures, improve air quality, increase water retention, and give residents a new way to escape the dense urban clusters of modern times. Roofscapes is about helping build up climate resilience for the future while improving the quality of life in cities now.

Are you curious about how technology is shaping the future of our cities? This book by an internationally renowned architect and urban planner explores the major technological forces driving urban change. Discover how digital systems are transforming urban life and explore new visions for tomorrow's city. With a front-row seat to experimentation and implementation of urban initiatives, the authors call for a new approach to envisioning cities: futurecraft, a symbiotic development of urban ideas by designers and the public. Join the conversation and shape the most desirable future for our cities. Recommended for urban planners, architects, designers, and anyone interested in the intersection of technology and urban life. This book explores the major technological forces driving the future of cities, providing new visions for tomorrow's city. With a front-row seat to experimentation and implementation of urban initiatives, the authors call for a new approach to envisioning cities: futurecraft, a symbiotic development of urban ideas by designers and the public. This book may also be relevant to those studying fields such as urban studies, engineering, and computer science, as well as anyone interested in shaping the future of our cities.

A permanent sunshade will be attached to London's "Walkie-Talkie" skyscraper to prevent reflected sunlight from damaging nearby properties. Developer Land Securities has received planning permission for the "brise soleil" solution after the glare from the building melted parked vehicles and damaged shops in the City of London. Discover how this innovative solution will solve the solar glare issue and protect the surrounding area.

The Netherlands is a country that has a long history of managing water. With almost a quarter of its territory below sea level, the region is prone to flooding. However, the Dutch government has taken measures to protect the entire southwestern region. The Delta Works project is the most sophisticated flood prevention project in the world, and it has reduced the annual odds of flooding to about 1 in 10,000. The project includes various infrastructure projects, such as damming the region's flood-prone estuaries and building the Maeslantkering, which is one of the planet's largest mobile structures. Additionally, the "Room for the River" plan has relocated farms and dikes away from the shore, creating reservoirs and habitats for local wildlife. Rotterdam, a thriving city almost entirely below sea level, embodies the Netherlands' multi-pronged approach to water management. By learning about the Dutch government's innovative solutions to natural disasters, students can gain a deeper understanding of how to create sustainable and resilient communities.

Architecture is a fundamental part of our everyday lives, from the buildings we live in, to the parks we play in, and the streets we walk on. The way we design and construct our communities has a significant impact on our social, economic, and environmental well-being. Let's explore the fascinating topic of how architecture shapes our lives. One of the key concepts in this field is the idea of placemaking. Placemaking is the process of designing public spaces that promote community interaction, creativity, and social cohesion. One of the pioneers of this approach is Jan Gehl, a Danish architect and urban designer, who has developed a human-centered approach to city planning that prioritizes the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit users. Another key concept is the notion of sustainable design. Sustainable design is an approach to architecture that considers the environmental impact of buildings and their materials. One example of this is the Bullitt Center, a commercial building in Seattle that is designed to be net-zero energy and carbon-neutral. Architecture also plays a critical role in shaping social and economic inequality. The design of public spaces can either promote or discourage social interaction, and can either facilitate or impede access to economic opportunities. For example, the High Line in New York City is a public park built on an elevated rail line that was converted into a green space. The park has helped to revitalize the surrounding neighborhood and has become a hub of community activity. Designing communities is an essential and exciting field of study that can inspire us to think critically about the places we live and work, and to envision a more equitable and sustainable future.

Architecture is more than just designing buildings, it's about creating spaces that inspire, evoke emotion and are functional. It's a field that blends creativity, innovation and technical skills to create structures that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical. Architects are responsible for designing everything from homes to skyscrapers, and their work can be seen all around us. From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the towering Burj Khalifa in Dubai, architects have left their mark on the world. In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in sustainable architecture, with many architects incorporating environmentally friendly design principles into their work. This has led to some incredible innovations, such as buildings that generate their own energy, and structures that are made entirely from recycled materials. Studying architecture at undergraduate level will give you a strong foundation in the principles of design, construction and engineering. You will learn how to use a range of software programs to create 2D and 3D designs, as well as how to read and interpret architectural plans. As you progress through your studies, you will have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as urban planning, sustainable design or historic preservation. You may even have the chance to study abroad, gaining valuable experience and exposure to different architectural styles and techniques. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to pursue a range of careers in the architecture industry. You could work for a large architecture firm, designing structures for clients around the world. Alternatively, you could work in the public sector, designing public spaces such as parks or government buildings. Some of the most notable employers in the industry include Foster + Partners, Zaha Hadid Architects, and Gensler. These firms are known for their innovative designs and commitment to sustainable architecture. To succeed in the field of architecture, you will need to be creative, detail-oriented and have strong technical skills. You should also have a passion for design and a desire to create structures that are not only beautiful but also functional and sustainable. In summary, studying architecture at undergraduate level is an exciting and rewarding experience that will equip you with the skills and knowledge to pursue a range of careers in the architecture industry. Whether you want to design skyscrapers or public spaces, this field of study offers endless opportunities for creativity and innovation.

Are you someone who is passionate about the environment, design, and creating beautiful outdoor spaces? Then the study of Landscape Architecture might just be the perfect fit for you! Landscape Architecture is the art and science of designing outdoor spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and sustainable. It involves designing everything from parks and gardens to urban plazas and public spaces. It is a field that combines elements of architecture, horticulture, and environmental science to create beautiful and functional outdoor spaces that enhance the quality of life for people. One of the most appealing aspects of Landscape Architecture is the ability to make a positive impact on the environment. Landscape architects are constantly seeking innovative solutions to environmental problems and creating sustainable designs that minimize the impact on the natural world. For example, green roofs, rain gardens, and bioswales are just a few examples of sustainable landscape design practices that are becoming increasingly popular. Landscape Architecture is also a field that is constantly evolving and adapting to new technologies and research. From the use of 3D modeling software to the development of new materials, landscape architects are always looking for ways to improve the design process and create more sustainable and functional outdoor spaces. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules include courses in design, plant materials, site engineering, and construction. Students can also specialize in areas such as urban design, environmental planning, and historic preservation. Some interesting examples of specializations include designing green roofs for urban buildings, creating sustainable landscapes for public spaces, and restoring historic gardens. After completing their studies, graduates can pursue a wide range of careers in both the public and private sectors. Landscape architects can work for government agencies, private firms, or start their own businesses. Some popular career paths include urban design, park planning, environmental planning, and landscape restoration. Notable potential employers include the National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service, and private landscape architecture firms such as Sasaki Associates and OLIN. To succeed in Landscape Architecture, it is helpful to have strong design skills, an eye for detail, and a passion for the environment. Additionally, strong communication and collaboration skills are essential for working with clients, contractors, and other professionals in the field. In conclusion, if you are someone who is passionate about design, the environment, and creating beautiful outdoor spaces, then Landscape Architecture might just be the perfect field of study for you. With its focus on sustainability, innovation, and making a positive impact on the world, Landscape Architecture is a field that offers endless opportunities for creativity and career growth.

Are you interested in creating sustainable and eco-friendly buildings that are both functional and beautiful? Look no further than the exciting field of Green Architecture! Green Architecture is a field of study that focuses on designing and constructing buildings that are environmentally responsible and energy-efficient. This field incorporates a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, architecture, and environmental science, to create buildings that are both aesthetically pleasing and ecologically sustainable. One example of Green Architecture in action is the Bullitt Center in Seattle, Washington. This building is entirely self-sufficient, generating all of its own energy through solar panels and rainwater collection systems. It's also made entirely from recycled materials, making it one of the most sustainable buildings in the world. Green Architecture is a constantly evolving field, with new research and innovations being made all the time. One notable academic figure in this field is Dr. Ken Yeang, who is known for his innovative designs that incorporate living plants into building facades to create natural insulation. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in sustainable design, green building materials, and renewable energy systems. Potential areas of further specialization include sustainable urban planning, green building certification, and sustainable construction management. Graduates of Green Architecture programs can expect to find a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as architecture, engineering, and urban planning. Key industries for prospective future employment include sustainable construction firms, government agencies focused on environmental policy, and green energy companies. Some notable employers in this field include the United States Green Building Council, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the architecture firm HOK. To succeed in Green Architecture, students should have a passion for sustainability and environmentalism, as well as strong skills in math, science, and design. If you're interested in creating a more sustainable future through innovative and eco-friendly building design, Green Architecture may be the perfect field of study for you!