ENVR E-119. Transforming the Built Environment for Resilience and Sustainability | Harvard University Center for the Environment

Professor: Grey Lee
Term: Fall
Day: T
Time: 12:30-2:30PM
School: Harvard Extension School
Course ID: 16111

How can real estate and buildings become more responsive to climate risk and other challenges to our communities? The greening of buildings has grown exponentially over the past decade, but is the transition fast enough to meet the needs of our communities in the dynamic times ahead? Can urban resilience become an intrinsic dimension of real estate development to prevent widespread disruptions caused by climate change? The built environment of our communities creates energy and material utilization patterns and subsequent ecological effects. Climate change challenges existing buildings and infrastructure, which has led to new policies and professional responses. Building design and location are a critical determinant of wellness, comfort, and productivity for occupants. This course introduces students to the principles of sustainability and resilience in our communities with a focus on systems dynamics. We use the framework of social equity and basic environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics to explore how urban design and policy can embrace priorities for human well-being. Students become familiar with international standards for sustainable design, operations, and management of buildings more favorable to the integrity of communities such as the US Green Building Council's LEED certifications, passive house, WELL Building Standard, the Living Building Challenge, and other concepts related to sustainable design. We ensure hands-on engagement with local policy protocols and meet practitioners who have participated in the advancement of best practice in sustainability and resilience.