Urban environments and their associated ecological communities are distinct from natural ecosystems and can be considered as unique including both cultural and ecological components. As such, the study of urban ecology includes not only the description of the physical, chemical and biological aspects of a place and the response of species to urban circumstances, but also social issues related to the political and psychological forces that contribute a broader understanding of the ecology of place. Presentations in this theme of WEEC 2017 can include topics as diverse as indicator species, the value of a watershed approach to ecological restoration or the importance of “listening” to the history and social influences of a place.  There are also numerous opportunities in urban environmental education for student and community engagement through citizen science and environmental stewardship. We would like to hear examples of case studies, problem-based learning, field-work, lab projects, community collaborations and other approaches to environmental education that highlight how students can better understand and explore the unique nature of urban ecosystems.