URBiNAT Researcher at the University of Coimbra’s Center for Social Studies, and co-Project Coordinator, Isabel Ferreira, has recently been awarded an INA Award 2023 honorable mention. This accolade is in recognition for her doctoral thesis in Sociology – Cities and Urban Cultures, titled “Governance, Citizenship and Participation in Small and Medium Cities: A Comparative Study Between Portuguese and Canadian Cities”. The thesis, conducted under the supervision of Claudino Ferreira, and defended at the University of Coimbra in July 2022, was approved with a Distinction.
Isabel Ferreira’s work integrates the CES Theme Line “Urban Cultures, Sociability and Participation,” reflecting her commitment to exploring the nuances of urban life and citizen engagement. Currently, besides the URBiNAT project, she co-ordinates “TRANS-Lighthouses – Beyond green: beacons of transformative nature-based solutions for inclusive communities”. These projects underscore her focus on sustainable urban development and community inclusivity.
The INA Award, aimed at celebrating the Best Research on Public Administration, serves to acknowledge yearly research studies that make a significant impact in the public administration sector. The theme for the 2023 edition, “Social, Economic and Environmental Sustainability in Public Administration,” resonates with Ferreira’s work, with its emphasis on the importance of sustainable actions, innovative tools, public policies, and the analysis of the specific Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development.
Isabel Ferreira’s work has and will undoubtedly continue to shape sustainable and inclusive urban environments. Her thesis contributes to the academic community, and wider community of practice which the URBiNAT project has been building. In particular, it provides practical insights for policymakers and urban planners aiming to create more sustainable, participatory, and inclusive cities.
