Towards the end of the 20th century, the structural and large-scale transformation of the industrial economy triggered-off urban changes, which rapidly involved almost all advanced cities over the last 30 years. These changes ushered in regeneration policies and comprehensive urban marketing strategies aimed at improving cities' competitiveness in terms of investments, flows of people, creativity related to new professionalisms and services, and the rediscovering of local traditions. At the same time, these changes challenged the idea of the city as a common good, starting with its public spaces.
In the light of these changes, what features should the cities of the 21st century have to compete at more advanced levels in terms of innovation, creativity, social cohesion, environmental sustainability and different use of public spaces and common goods?
In this regard, a first focus is on environmental sustainability, according to the indicators used by the European Commission in determining the ranking of the Green Cities (eco-friendly mobility, increase in green areas, reduction in consumption of soil and water, separate waste collection, predominant use of clean energy, involvement of citizens in the diffusion of good practices). A second focus is on what kind of city is being built from a social and cultural perspective, starting from the behaviour of people in public spaces. On these topics further lectures of Dr. Sara Spanu are planned.
In order to study these changes, the course will be organised around the following topics:
1. transition from modern to post-modern city;
2. the role of planning and architecture;
3. a selection of examples of urban and land policies;
4. meanings of public space and public city.