Legal Aspects of Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities

Legal Aspects of Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities

The Course Convenor: Dr. Ievgeniia Kopytsia 


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Course Overview


This master’s-level course at the Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University addresses one of the most critical challenges in climate action: the role of cities in achieving climate neutrality. With cities consuming over 65% of global energy and accounting for more than 70% of greenhouse gas emissions, they are at the forefront of both climate challenges and solutions. Cities face increasing risks from climate change impacts, including extreme heat waves, severe weather events, and deteriorating air and water quality, all of which threaten environmental security and citizens’ well-being. The course takes on particular significance in the context of Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction, offering a unique opportunity to explore how cities can be rebuilt with climate neutrality and sustainability at their core.

Course Structure

The curriculum is organized into five modules:

Module 1: Introduction to Climate-Neutral Cities Module 2: Climate-Neutral Cities: International and European Legal Framework Module 3: Roadmap for Climate-Neutral Cities Module 4: Creating Legal Frameworks for Climate-Neutral Cities Module 5: Current State and Prospects of Climate-Neutral Cities in Ukraine

MODULE 1

This foundational module explores the concept of climate neutrality and its critical importance in urban contexts. Students examine the relationship between sustainable development goals and smart cities, establishing the theoretical framework for understanding climate-neutral urban development. The module emphasizes how cities can transform challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth.

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MODULE 2

This module examines contemporary legal structures governing smart cities, focusing on compliance mechanisms and enforcement strategies. Students analyze the need for adaptive and innovative legal frameworks that can accommodate rapidly evolving urban technologies and climate challenges. The module provides a comparative analysis of different jurisdictional approaches to smart city regulation.

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module 3

Students explore the crucial roles of various stakeholders in developing climate-neutral cities. The module covers government and local authority responsibilities, public-private partnerships, and mechanisms for public participation in smart city planning. Case studies of successful smart cities such as Amsterdam, Barcelona, Seoul, and Turin provide practical insights into different governance models and implementation strategies.

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module 4

This module focuses on practical aspects of developing legal frameworks that integrate climate goals, technology, and community participation. Students examine emerging trends and challenges in smart city regulation, analyzing legal pathways for intelligent and sustainable urban development. The module emphasizes innovative approaches to urban governance that balance technological advancement with social equity.

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module 5

The final module addresses the specific context of Ukraine, examining international and European cooperation in developing climate-neutral cities. Special attention is given to post-war reconstruction, exploring unique opportunities to implement smart city concepts during the rebuilding process. Students analyze how reconstruction efforts can incorporate climate neutrality principles while addressing immediate recovery needs.

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Teaching Methods and Learning Activities

The course employs a diverse range of teaching methods including:

  • Case study analysis of urban legislation
  • Research on municipal institutions’ influence on policy formation
  • Practical exercises in grant proposal writing for urban projects (Urban Innovative Actions, Urbact, Horizon Europe)
  • Development of urban policy documents (city plans, strategies, regulations)
  • Laboratory sessions for hands-on learning


Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, students will be able to:

Analyze urban laws, policies, and initiatives with critical understanding

Evaluate stakeholder interests and engagement mechanisms

Apply theoretical knowledge to practical urban development challenges

Develop models for climate-neutral and equitable smart city policies


Create regulatory frameworks supporting climate-neutral city implementation

Design comprehensive city master plans addressing climate neutrality

Understand the complexities of post-war urban reconstruction

Target Audience

This course is designed for master’s students at the Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University who are interested in urban development, environmental law, and smart city governance.

Final Project

Students will develop a “Climate-Neutral and Equitable Smart City Policy” model in the form of a City Master Plan that addresses:

  • Smart city objectives and goals
  • Stakeholder identification and engagement
  • Integration of diverse interests in smart city governance
  • Legal frameworks for effective implementation of climate-neutral city concepts