Sustainable Cities of the future / The Technologies of Nature

Training description

Academic program

Building healthier, environmentally respectful cities that foster a flourishing economy and society is still one of the biggest challenges of our century. 

Creating sustainable cities requires holistic, system-based approaches to the multiple environmental, societal, and economic hazards. It is necessary to consider the co-benefits and unintended consequences and have an in-depth understanding of the complex societal, technological and environmental barriers and the enablers for effective change. 

While modern technologies give many answers, nature shows us how to integrate human activity into the natural cycle and to harmonize the creations of people and nature.

Bio-inspired solutions/technologies are increasingly explored and applied in practice due to their higher contribution to sustainability.

The program includes 25 hours/week: lectures - projects - workshops - research laboratories and company visits.

We invite students to join us for an innovative, multidisciplinary and exciting summer program and discover how sustainable thinking can be inspired by the laws of nature and to explore how technology can contribute to creating sustainable cities for the future.

Built around the topics of Bioenergy, Bio-Architecture, Bio-Technology and Circular Bio-Society, the 2023 Summer School is a journey from theory to practice experienced on campus, in companies and research laboratories, in nature, and in cities.

The academic program includes, but is not limited to, the following themes and topics:

• System thinking and introduction to the laws of nature and their applicability in architecture and urban planning

• Sustainable Energy in the cities of the future: Bioenergy: biomass, biofuel, Solar Energy, Energy Supply & Management, Smart Grids

• Bio-Architecture, regenerative architecture, and bio-urbanism: artificial intelligence in urban planning, sustainable materials and AI-based applications in sustainable material development, 3D printing for sustainable architecture, netzero carbon construction

• Bio-society, Bio-metric technology and circular economy in the cities of the Future

Upon success, students may obtain a certificate and 3.5 ECTS credits.
 
Cultural Program

Besides the academic lectures, complementary field trips, project site and cultural visits will allow students to enjoy the Champagne region (Troyes) and to discover the splendid cultural heritage of France’s capital city, Paris and the Parisian world renowned for its cultural life including world famous theatres, museums, architectures and excursions on Seine River.
All students will discover the French culture in addition to cultural visits, which will contribute to a perfect understanding of the local social and professional environment.
 
Note: Program content may be subject to change or cancellation based upon low enrollment.

Practical information

We invite students from engineering, architectural, urbanistic, environmental and societal studies, or related fields to join us for this two-week summer program entirely taught in English (B2 level recommended).

Required academic level:

• Advanced Bachelor's Degree students

• Master's Degree students

• PhD students

• Young researchers and professionals who want to improve and find new opportunities in their work and research

Location:
EPF Paris campus and our partner school ESTP are located in Cachan (minutes away from the center of Paris by subway) on a green land and in Troyes where teaching and research activities are organized. Students’ life is energizing since students may benefit from sports facilities, a residence, and restaurants close to the premises.

Application and fees

Applications are open until May 31st 2023 online here: OP ESTP (alcuin.com)

The program fee of 1 500 € for the two weeks covers:

• Tuition and documentation

• Welcome and farewell events

• Access to EPF Paris and ESTP

• Free internet access

• Official programme certificate

• Cultural and social events

• Transfer between Troyes and Paris-Cachan

Accommodation is not covered but you can receive information upon request.
Living expenses, individual insurances and visa fees are not included.