Ateneo - UPO

The course introduces Nature-based Solutions (NbS) as integrated approaches for addressing environmental challenges such as soil degradation, pollution, and climate change. Students will explore the functioning of environmental matrices (air, water, and soil), analyze water and energy balances, and investigate the synergies between NbS and renewable energy sources. Several case studies will be examined across different socio-economic sectors, and exercises will be proposed to reinforce the understanding of fundamental concepts.

Slides and additional material (also in English) available on the DIR page of the course

The course aims to provide students with a solid understanding of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) as effective tools for addressing environmental pressures and promoting climate adaptation. By the end of the course, students will be able to: 1) Identify the main types of NbS and their areas of application 2) Analyze the functioning of environmental matrices (air, water, and soil) from an ecosystem perspective 3) Interpret water and energy balances in different environmental contexts 4) Evaluate the synergies between NbS, climate change, and renewable energy sources.

Basic knowledge of Physics and Climatology.

Frontal lectures integrated with case study analysis, exercises and guided discussions aimed at developing critical analysis and solution application skills.

Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special Education Needs can request specific services and tools via the Staff Sviluppo e Coordinamento Carriere e Servizi alle Studentesse e agli Studenti, consulting the University webpage: https://www.uniupo.it/en/services/services- students-physical-or-learning-disabilities Students with disabilities, learning disabilities or special education needs, once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities, concerning academic aspects.

Written Exam consisting of 3 open-ended questions. Each answer is worth a maximum of 10 points. Students will also have the opportunity to submit a report on a case study of their choice, incorporating the fundamental concepts covered in the course. If the report receives a positive evaluation, it may contribute to the final written exam score, with a bonus of up to 3 points.
The written exam is worth up to 30/30, eventually with Laude. To achieve a passing grade (18/30), students must reach at least 16/30 on the written exam if they earn at least 2 bonus points from the report, or 18/30 directly from the written exam alone. To achieve Laude, it will be necessary to start from a written exam score of 29/30.
The report, to be developed during the lessons, is a tool for self-assessment that allows students to demonstrate their ability to apply the fundamental concepts learned (understanding and synthesis) to a real context, developing independent judgment and practical skills.Evaluation of Written Exam

Evaluation of the Answers in the written exam (max. 10 points per answer):
- Score 0-5: Limited or incorrect knowledge of fundamental NbS concepts or inability to apply basic concepts.
- Score 6-7: Basic understanding of NbS and the functioning of environmental matrices. Terminology is correct, but analysis is weak or not well-articulated.
- Score 8-9: Complete and well-structured answer. A clear ability is demonstrated to analyze the problem and the strategies to counter it in specific contexts, with critical analysis of synergies.
- Score 10: Exceptionally concise, well-articulated, and rigorous answer. Full mastery is demonstrated in proposing NbS intervention strategies and evaluating effectiveness, with impeccable use of terminology and critical analysis.

Evaluation of Optional Report (Max +3 Bonus Points)
+1 Point: The report describes an NbS case study correctly but elementarily. The application of concepts is basic, without an in-depth analysis of effectiveness or impact.
+2 Points: The report is complete and demonstrates a good capacity for critically analyzing the effectiveness of NbS and proposing strategies adequate for the context.
+3 Points: The report is of high quality, with exceptional independent judgment and technical-scientific rigor in the analysis of the case study.

The course addresses the principles, applications, and potential of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) as integrated tools for environmental sustainability and climate change adaptation. Particular emphasis is placed on the analysis of geophysical processes related to environmental matrices—soil, air, and water—and the understanding of water and energy balances. The course explores the main causes of degradation within these matrices and the alterations that affect the climate system. Students will gain skills in evaluating the role of NbS in climate mitigation, albedo regulation, and carbon sequestration.

By the end of the course, students will be able to critically analyze environmental challenges and the intervention strategies based on Nature-based Solutions (NbS). They will be able to describe the functioning of environmental matrices in degraded contexts, interpret water and energy balances, and evaluate the effectiveness of NbS in mitigating the impacts of climate change. Furthermore, they will develop fundamental cross-disciplinary skills for independent judgment, critical analysis of data, and technical-scientific communication in contexts of participatory design of environmental solutions.