Environmental Economics
Brazil, with the largest economy in Latin America is considered to be one of the “super-potential” emerging economies of the 21st century and was an initial member of the BRICS economic block. Due to the size of this country, the environmental aspects of this program are concentrated into the region of Parana - home to the Catarats of Iguazu and to Curitiba, the first green city in the world.
Our program includes a visit to both sides of the Catarats, as we undergo a safari adventure by boat followed with a visit to the world´s largest hydro power plant in electricity generation. Travelling onwards, we will visit Curitiba, a city often referenced by environmental activists. Sustainable urban planning of the city dates back to the 1970s. More recently 150 kms of bicycle pathways and a Rapid Bus Transit system have achieved the impossible, local residents leave their cars at home! The tour ends in the “marvellous city” - Rio De Janeiro - where students will have the opportunity to attend lectures, visit local businesses, and meet with governmental leaders, as well as see the sites.
Architecture
It would be impossible to consider 20th century architecture without studying the work of one of the most influential architects of modern times, Oscar Neimayer. This travel study program to Brazil will give students the opportunity to visit some of the wonderful buildings designed by Oscar Neimayer and others.
The tour commences in Brasilia, the only 20th century city to have been nominated a UNESCO world heritage site. Undoubtedly, the fame of this city is due to the enormous task which Niemeyer undertook - to design a city on a previously inhospitable and arid piece of land. The trip then moves on to Rio, known as the “marvellous city” for its beauty. The sighting of Rio was not particularly favourable either, since it is limited on one side by mountains and on the other by the sea. This was not a stumbling block to Rio’s development, as tunnels and bridges unite the different districts. This along with land reclamation projects, have earned the city recognition for its achievements in urban planning.
Site visits with qualified guides, and qualified lecturers are part of this travel study program.
