SDG 11: Sustainable cities and communities

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi actively contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) by promoting sustainable urban development and fostering resilient communities. The university engages in research and initiatives focused on urban planning, architecture, and environmental sustainability, addressing challenges such as climate change and urbanization. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, SUAD supports innovative solutions that enhance liveability and sustainability in cities. Additionally, its educational programs empower students with the knowledge and skills to design inclusive, safe, and sustainable urban environments, ensuring that future leaders are well-equipped to create vibrant communities that thrive in harmony with their surroundings.

Culture and Heritage

The university offers 2 distinguished post graduate programs in the departments of Sciences and Engineering, and in the department of History of Art and Archaeology in the area of heritage restoration and culture preservation

Master in physics

Specialization in Non-Destructive Characterization with Applications for Cultural Heritage

The dual focus of this programme makes it as a unique cross–disciplinary master degree programme in the UAE that addresses scientific research subjects relating to cultural heritage

Master in Archaeology and Cultural Heritage

This programme offers an innovative approach to the study of Archaeology and Heritage, that is based on
new technologies and experiential learning. It is multidisciplinary, yet, it gives priority to Archaeology and Heritage with particular focus on the challenges faced in Abu Dhabi and the Emirates in general.

Events and Activities

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Hosts Pivotal Event on the Restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral

In the field of heritage restoration, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi centred its event on the restoration efforts of Notre Dame Cathedral after the devastating fire. This gathering underscored significant progress in the global mission to preserve cultural heritage. Combining a conference with an interactive exhibition, the event showcased SUAD's dedication to fostering innovation and excellence in the protection of heritage.

Cultural Heritage and Desert Environment in the Arabian Peninsula Exhibition by Students of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi

In partnership with Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and L’Observatoire des Patrimoines the exhibition held at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi showcases the diverse fields of research involved in cultural heritage studies, highlighting the contributions of undergraduate students from the departments of Archaeology and History of Art, Geography and Planning, and Sciences and Engineering. Titled "Cultural Heritage and Desert Environment in the Arabian Peninsula" the exhibition illustrates interdisciplinary research in cultural heritage science, emphasizing the connections between ancient civilizations and future generations. It featured research posters, private collection artifacts, and archaeological findings from the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, along with 3D copies of artifacts in interactive holographic displays. This event aims to promote the significance of scientific analysis in understanding ancient societies and advancing research in material culture and archaeology.

Heritage, Art market, and Eco-responsibility

The event explored the intersection of heritage, art, and eco-responsibility, recognizing these as valuable aspects of human culture that connect generations and shape environments. It discussed how ancient societies lived in harmony with nature, offering lessons for modern urban planners and architects focused on sustainable city-building. While the art world celebrates creativity, it also raises concerns about its environmental impact, particularly through the transportation of artworks and the networks involved. The event aimed to address how to maintain the sustainability of beauty and livable spaces in a post-industrial world, and the role of art in driving positive climate action. The discussions also examined the commitment of cultural and art institutions, as well as artists and collectors, to eco-responsibility and the sustainable solutions they are implementing. COP28, held in the UAE during the Year of Sustainability, was seen as an ideal platform to highlight these issues and pass on the commitment to future generations.

Access to Museums and Libraries in the UAE

The university offers special rates for students and staff at prestigious institutions like the Louvre, Guggenheim, and Qasr Al Hosn, not only enhancing their educational experience but also encouraging cultural engagement. providing a great opportunity for them to explore art and history firsthand.

Sustainable Practices and Initiatives

Sustainable Commuting

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi has taken significant steps to promote sustainability by providing transportation for 359 visiting faculty members via dedicated buses. This initiative reduces the reliance on personal vehicles, thereby minimizing carbon emissions and encouraging eco-friendly practices within the university community. By facilitating convenient and sustainable transportation options, the university not only enhances accessibility for faculty but also fosters a culture of environmental responsibility, aligning with its broader commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices on campus.

Remote Working

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s remote working policy, allowing employees to work five days per month from home, significantly reduces commuting, leading to lower carbon emissions. This initiative not only eases traffic congestion but also enhances work-life balance, contributing to overall employee well-being. By promoting flexible work arrangements, the university actively supports sustainability efforts and fosters a greener campus environment.

Affordable Housing for Staff and Students

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is committed to supporting its staff and students by providing affordable housing options, ensuring a comfortable living environment that fosters both personal and professional growth.

The university offers a Housing Allowance to employees and delegates residing within the UAE. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with housing costs, making it easier for staff to focus on their roles and responsibilities.

The amount of the Housing Allowance is subject to regular reviews. These reviews consider changes in the rental and housing market, ensuring that the allowance remains fair and relevant. This adaptability reflects the university’s commitment to the well-being of its staff and students in an ever-changing economic landscape.

Conferences

Greening Information Management for Sustainable Development

The exponential growth of digital information/data have led to the creation of data centres that consume energy. Governments need to undertake green data stewardship strategies and policies to reduce social, ecologic and environmental challenges that have so far received little attention. There is paucity in research on green information management. In this conference, researchers of Records Management and Archival Science discussed the impact digital information has on sustainability. They presented their preliminary findings regarding the steps government institutions are undertaking to promote green information management for sustainable development.

Oasis agri-urban metabolism as a source of paleo-innovation for coping with global warming

The event focused on how oasis agri-urban systems, developed over thousands of years, offer solutions for addressing global warming. These systems created sustainable microclimates through a combination of dense housing, intensive agriculture, and the use of local resources. Unlike modern industrial-urban systems, which rely on fossil fuels and generate pollution, oasis metabolisms promote circular economies and sustainability. The event highlighted two key methods for establishing sustainable agri-urban systems: reusing treated wastewater and eco-construction. It emphasized that drawing inspiration from these ancient systems could provide a path forward for adapting cities to climate challenges and reducing global warming.

City of Challenges: Towards Eco-Technological Innovation? Examples from Morocco and South Korea

The event discussed the future of cities in the context of eco-technological innovation, with a focus on smart and knowledge-based cities. It emphasized that economic imperatives must no longer outweigh ecological concerns in the face of the planet's environmental challenges. The city of the future, especially in the Anthropocene era, must redefine the concepts of intelligent, sustainable, and resilient urban living. Innovation in these cities depends on how various elements of the innovation ecosystem come together, just like in nature, where growth and sustainability are influenced by the surrounding conditions. The examples of South Korea and Morocco were highlighted as interesting case studies for integrating both ecological and technological dimensions in urban planning, showing the need for cities to balance these aspects for sustainable development

Research and Publications on Sustainable Cities and Communities

Sustainable Development Goals