Soluções Baseadas na Natureza no Ciclo Urbano da Água

Objectives

At the end of this course, students should have the following skills: - describe the connection between green infrastructure and water in an urban environment - describe the characteristics of Nature-Based Solutions used in an urban environment - describe the potential contributions of Nature-Based Solutions to urban water management, both in terms of quantity and quality - describe the multiple benefits of Nature Based Solutions used in urban environments - carry out a critical assessment of benefits in relation to the costs of Nature Based Solutions used in urban areas.

Syllabus

Introduction: the challenges of water management in an urban environment. History of Nature-Based Solutions for the management of water in urban areas and different nomenclatures. Characterization of Nature Based Solutions for an efficient management of the water cycle in an urban environment. Solutions for flow control and for improving water quality. Interface between water management and natural processes (blue and green infrastructure) and connection with the city. Introduction to ecosystem services in Nature-Based Solutions for urban water management. Cost-benefit assessment of Nature-Based Solutions. Presentation of case studies, with identification of multiple uses.

Prerequisites

Sanitary Engineering

Cross Competence Component

The course allows the development of soft skills in Critical and Innovative Thinking (creativity, strategic thinking) in group work and exam. It allows the development of Interpersonal Skills (oral presentations, communication and organizational skills, team work) and Intrapersonal skills (self-discipline, enthusiasm, perseverance) in the development and presentation of group work. It allows developing information and media literacy skills (including the ability to locate and access information, as well as to analyze and evaluate media content) in the group work. The percentage of assessment associated with these skills should be around 20%.

Ethical Principles

All members of a group are responsible for the group's work. In any assessment, every students shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used. In an oral assessment, every students shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.