Urban spaces

The past decade has witnessed several developments that have made us think about urban issues in new ways. For the first time in human history, more than half of the world’s population lives in urban areas. Demographic projections suggest this figure could rise to well over 60% over the next two decades.

Transforming urban areas

New thinking about cities has meant a different approach to urban life. While urbanisation was once criticised as being unmanageable and counter-productive, it is now considered a key element in promoting economic growth, if well managed. In many countries, cities are leading the way in innovations and responses to global development challenges, including climate change, energy efficiency, and economic development.

The past decade has witnessed several developments that have made us think about urban issues in new ways

Urban planners face the challenge of having to find a delicate balance between the needs of its citizens against the use of natural resources. It is essential that inhabitants have easy access to basic utilities such as water and power without causing harm to the environment they depend on. But a pleasant city life also depends on the availability of green areas, low noise levels, and a well planned transportation network.