CIEE HS Summer Abroad: Urban Design in Amsterdam

Cities impact the environment—they use 60% of global energy and produce 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

In Amsterdam, discover the inner workings of a smart city. Witness how urban planning and technology can help lower the use of natural resources, lessen environmental impact, and ensure a good life for residents. Participate in Design Thinking workshops alongside other Global Navigators to define an urban issue, design, and model a solution, and then present it to a panel of experts.

Amsterdam, one of three cities piloting the Thriving Cities Initiative, intends to become a circular city by 2050 in which everything produced and consumed is reusable. Hear from changemakers and experience exclusive tours of organizations and companies driving Amsterdam’s transition to a smart and circular city.

Soak in the Dutch way of life, too. Stroll along Amsterdam’s canals and parks. Join in on its bicycling culture with local teens. Visit colorful markets and taste traditional dishes like poffertjes and Dutch fries. On excursions, venture outside Amsterdam to explore city planning in cities like Almere, Eindhoven, and Rotterdam.