PL4-304 Climate adaptation in spatial planning

Contents and structure

The course combines knowledge about climate change adaptation with practical exercises related to spatial planning. The theoretical part of the course focuses on societal characteristics and processes of importance for climate change adaptation, as well as different approaches to climate change adaptation. This provides a foundation for critical reflection on different strategies for climate change adaptation, interrelations between societal change and climate change, and between climate change adaptation and mitigation.This is meant to provide the necessary background to complete the practical exercises and course work.

The practical exercises have a vocational focus, offering valuable planning experience to the student. The student will work with planning legislation in different countries, and specific challenges related to climatic changes for spatial planning in a local context. Excursions will provide insights into the integrative perspective of spatial planning.

Learning Outcome

Knowledge:

The student has

• understanding of central concepts in and approaches to climate change adaptation
• knowledge of interrelations between climate change adaptation and other important global planning objectives according to the UN sustainable development goals
• advanced knowledge of how societal factors and contexts influence climate risk
• advanced knowledge of advantages and challenges associated with different approaches to climate change adaptation worldwide
• insight into legal instruments for planning for climate change adaptation in various countries

Skills:

The student is able to

• conduct localized climate risk assessments
• develop alternative strategies for local climate change adaptation based on climate risk assessments
• coordinate measures for sustainable climate change adaptation
• search and select literature to assess adaptation strategies
• apply theoretical perspectives in discussions of practical solutions

General competence:

The student can

• conduct assessments and planning processes with the aim of reducing climate risk
• reflect upon future perspectives on sustainable land use
• communicate climate issues relevant for societal and spatial planning
• participate in co-production of knowledge about climate issues in interdisciplinary and international groups
• take a leading role in planning processes
• present and discuss, in oral and written form, complex issues across scientific borders
• provide and handle constructive feedback on written and oral presentations

Entry requirements

Completed bachelor degree of 180 ECTS

Recommended previous knowledge

It will be an advantage to have completed the following courses (or equivalent knowledge): 

• GE4-300 Climate Change and Climate Policy 
• BI4-301 Climate Change Ecology
• PL4-303 Runoff Management
• GE4-306 Natural hazards in spatial planning

Basic knowledge of spatial planning and national planning legislation will be an asset.

Teaching methods

• Student active methods, e.g. presentations and discussions
• Seminars, lectures, workshops
• Excursions
• Practical planning exercises 

Compulsory learning activities

Compulsory learning activities

• Approved participation in 2,5 day start seminar (together with PL4-305)
• 2 approved written assignments, including student peer response
• Approved participation in 1-2 excursions
• Approved participation in 4-7 seminars and workshops

Any absence must be clarified with course responsible in advance

Assessment

Individual project assignment 

Grading A-F, where F is not passed

Examination support material

All

More about examination support material