Economia Urbana e Circularidade

No prior knowledge is required. It is recommended, however, that students have a basic understanding of sustainability, economics and spatial planning, acquired during their undergraduate degree programme.

Theoretical-practical classes have an expository, critical analysis and discussion component associated with learning the concepts and
applicable solutions. It is an environment for interaction with students, but conducted in a guided manner. Group learning occurs through
active learning methodologies, including simulated debates, puzzles and collaborative actions. PBL techniques will also be used – projectbased
learning to simulate problem-solving that simulates professional practice, which gives rise to a written document submitted by
students for evaluation.

Master the concepts and determinants of the urban economy.
Understand the dimensions of the urban economy and their interrelationship.
Know how to interpret the economic indicators of a city.
Know and make judgments about the operation of the city’s economy.
Interpret public policies for the city and their potential effects.
Understand the paradigms of the urban circular economy and identify the most relevant areas and stakeholders.
Know how to develop community involvement strategies in circularity projects.
Know and interpret European and Portuguese policy measures for circular cities.
Be able to collaborate in eco-innovation projects associated with circular cities.

1. URBAN ECONOMY: 1.1 Geographic space in economic analysis; 1.2 Externalities and agglomeration economies; 1.3 Market forces and
urban development; 1.4 Economic aspects of land use, housing and mobility in cities; 1.5 Urban problems vs. public policies: debates and
challenges; 1.6 Linear urban economy vs circular urban economy: concepts, economic impacts and barriers.
2. CIRCULAR CITIES: 2.1 Vision for a circular city: key areas; 2.2 Drivers of the transition to circular cities; 2.3 Life-cycle thinking: concepts,
education and community involvement strategies; 2.4 Public policies to promote the circular economy in the city; 2.5 European initiative for
circular cities and regions; 2.6 National Circular Cities Initiative: 2.7 Circular city networks 2.8 Eco-innovation: circular design; circular
purchasing; circular business.

Group work (20%)

The circular economy involves collaboration between different sectors and stakeholders. Group work promotes systems thinking and collaborative solutions.

Individual reflection (15%)

To ensure that all students understand the concepts and contribute.

Each student writes a short reflection (1-2 pages) on what they have learnt and how they would apply the principles of the circular economy in their area of interest.

Class participation and contributions (15%)

Two-thirds attendance is compulsory

This includes involvement in discussions, simulations and participation in case study debates.

Final Assessment Test (50%)

Regardless of the assessment period (standard, resit, special or exceptional), the final mark is always calculated on the basis of 50% of the mark obtained in the exam and 50% of the marks for assignments and/or projects completed throughout the course module.

‘Supplementary oral examinations may be used as an additional assessment tool whenever deemed necessary to resolve doubts or clarify situations where fraud or plagiarism is suspected.’

NAO