SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
More information about this goal on sustainabledevelopment.un.org
Teaching
Expanding Engineering Limits: Culture, Diversity and Gender
Especially in the context of urban and rural communities, engineering solutions can only be effective and sustainable if they reflect the needs of a diverse society. The course analyses the interrelationships between engineering sciences, social practices and their culture in the context of gender and diversity. The course discusses to what extent cultural aspects of gender and diversity have a significant impact on who becomes an engineer, which problems are addressed and how the execution and quality of problem solutions, designs, technologies and products are affected.
Social Responsibility, Sustainability and Resilience
The seminar teaches the theoretical concepts of social responsibility, sustainability and resilience. The concept of resilience especially is discussed by the example of "resilient cities". Students will also learn to apply and reflect on the concepts conveyed to practical, highly topical case studies of socio-technical developments, for example in the field of urban mobility (car sharing, e-scooters, etc.).
Social Spaces and Resilience
Resilience is closely linked to the guiding principle of sustainable development. Especially with regard to increasing natural and environmental disasters, dealing with unforeseeable events is becoming increasingly relevant. In this seminar, students learn to reflect resilience-oriented approaches and ways of thinking in the context of their future work as engineers and to apply these approaches to practical decisions.
Research
ACCESS! – Sustainable Mobility in Urban and Rural Areas
The interdisciplinary project integrates various aspects regarding the design of future mobility systems and forms. In addition to technical and infrastructural possibilities, individual mobility needs in terms of inclusion and equality as well as environmental compatibility on a local, regional and global scale are considered in order to shape sustainable mobility.
Cycling Study – Bicycle Commuting and Air Pollution
In the context of a transformation towards more sustainable and socially acceptable forms of mobility, cycling represents a socially, environmentally and economically attractive alternative to motorized means of transport. However, health effects like those caused by air pollution to which cyclists are exposed must also be taken into account. The interdisciplinary study investigates the measured and subjectively perceived air pollution levels of cyclists along an Aachen commuter route.
Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) Hub
The RRI Hub aims to pave the way for socially responsible solutions to complex problems. With the involvement of citizens, students and teachers of the university as well as regional actors from politics and economy, research and technical innovations are to be made sustainable and social. This approach promotes the region and city as a location for innovation. In order to implement participatory and open innovation processes, real "living labs" will also be created in the inner city area, inviting experimentation and exchange between citizens, students and scientists.
External Links
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United Nations: Sustainable Development Goal 11
Further information of the 11th goal from the United Nations on the content and progress