In a capitalist society defined by overproduction and mass consumption, a shift in perspective is urgently needed. While initiatives like the zero-/less-waste movement have made strides, they alone are not enough for global change. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are often criticized for being difficult to measure or enforce. There is a growing need to assess and reimagine current practices.
This study circle offers a shared exploration of how urban planning, governance, and individual actions intersect to shape sustainable cities. Together, we will critically examine urban structures—housing, mobility, waste systems, and economic models—to understand their connections and reimagine how they can function in a circular way. Our goal is to think beyond SDG 2030 and explore how systems can support the circular economy.
By the end of the course, participants will be able to critically analyze urban challenges, propose innovative solutions, and create comprehensive plans for sustainable urban development.
Content
- Introduction to urban planning and the relationship between cities and the economy
- Discussion of urban concepts related to circular cities
- Current trends in circular economy and case studies
Practical information
The course combines short lectures, literature seminars, and workshops. Rather than traditional teaching, this study circle is a collective learning process designed to adapt to participants’ needs and interests.
The course is held online in English and consists of five sessions. Each session takes place on Wednesdays from 16:30 to 18:45 over five weeks. It is open to anyone interested in exploring sustainable transformation practices. No prior knowledge is required.
Circle leader
Ewa Gaszczyk is a master’s student in the Sustainable Urban Planning and Design program at KTH, with a background in architecture. In light of the climate crisis, she focuses on exploring potential urban transformations. She strives to create an interdisciplinary, collective learning environment for knowledge exchange.
Kursledare
Ewa Gaszczyk
Har du frågor?
Kontakta Folkuniversitetet i Stockholm