Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Sustainable Planning
Overview
This three-session workshop series introduces participants to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) through the lens of sustainability, ecology, and urban planning. Led Marjan Flandia, MSET learner with a background in biology, landscape architecture and economy, who is driven by a strong belief in the necessity of a sustainable society. This series emphasises the importance of spatial thinking for building a sustainable society.
Using the free, open-source software QGIS, participants move from foundational skills to advanced spatial analysis while working on two real-world sustainability case studies: biodiversity protection and sustainable urban development.
Dates and times
Location: Cosmos
Time: 9:00–11:00 CET
Dates: 10 January 2026, 17 January 2026, 24 January 2026
Session 1: Foundations of GIS & Biodiversity Mapping
Saturday 10 January 2026, 9:00–11:00 CET, Cosmos
Program
Theoretical Foundations of GIS
Installing and Setting Up QGIS
Project 1 Introduction & Hands-On Practice
This is a step by step beginner's workshop where the participants will discover the power of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and learn how to use free, user-friendly software (QGIS) to create maps and analyze spatial information, all through the lens of real-world sustainability projects.
Key Learning Outcomes
A foundation in what GIS is, how it works, and its importance for solving modern problems
Key concepts like coordinate systems and file types
A guided installation of the free QGIS software
Practical skills to launch QGIS and set up a workspace
An introduction to the first project, applying these new skills to a biodiversity case study
Session 2: Advanced Styling & Spatial Data Editing in QGIS
Saturday 17 January 2026, 9:00–11:00 CET, Cosmos
Program
Advanced Styling – Spatial Analysis in QGIS
Editing and Enhancing Spatial Data
Introducing to the second Case Study
This workshop builds on foundational skills to explore more advanced techniques for visualizing geographic information and managing spatial data. The session focuses on transforming basic maps into powerful analytical tools and customizing data for specific project needs.
Key Learning Outcomes
Advanced Visualization and Spatial Analysis
Data Editing
Session 3: Full Environmental Analysis & Professional Map Design
Saturday 24 January 2026, 9:00–11:00 CET, Cosmos
Program
Introducing to the second Case Study and Preparing Data for Environmental Analysis
Advanced Spatial Analysis in QGIS
Creating a Professional Map
This workshop guides participants through a complete environmental case study, from initial data preparation to advanced spatial analysis and professional map presentation. The session focuses on applying practical GIS techniques to address real-world planning challenges.
Key Learning Outcomes
Case Study Introduction & Data Preparation
Advanced Spatial Analysis Techniques
Map Design & Layout