Sustainable Urbanization
Sponge City: A Sustainable Solution to Urban Water Management.
The article explores the concept of “sponge cities” as a sustainable solution to urban water management amidst increasing global urbanization and climate change. Sponge cities use a combination of natural and engineered infrastructure, such as permeable surfaces, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting, to absorb, store, and reuse rainwater. This approach aims to reduce flooding, conserve water, and promote biodiversity while improving air quality and climate resilience. The article highlights successful global examples and discusses the challenges and future outlook for implementing sponge city principles worldwide.
Read MoreSponge City: A Sustainable Solution to Urban Water Management.On Two Wheels Toward a Sustainable Future.
The article focuses on bicycles as a vital tool for sustainable mobility, offering health, environmental, and traffic benefits. With over 1 billion bicycles globally, they help reduce carbon emissions and congestion. The bicycle market, especially e-bikes, is expanding, with innovations in eco-friendly materials further reducing environmental impact. As cities invest in cycling, bicycles play a vital role in creating greener, healthier urban environments.
Read MoreOn Two Wheels Toward a Sustainable Future.NIMBY – Not In My Backyard
The “Not In My Backyard” (NIMBY) phenomenon reflects local opposition to projects affecting nearby areas. While it encourages civic debate, it can delay important initiatives due to distrust and emotional responses. NIMBY is a key aspect of democratic decision-making.
Read MoreNIMBY – Not In My BackyardCities and Climate Action. World Cities Report 2024
UN-Habitat has released a report examining the connection between urban growth and climate change. The report states that “the fight against climate change and the struggle to achieve more sustainable and equitable urbanization are two sides of the same coin.”…
Burgas Is at the Top of Smart Urban Development
This article highlights Burgas as a leader in smart city development in Bulgaria. Despite uneven use of smart technologies across the country, Burgas excels with eco-friendly mobility, digital platforms, and sustainability initiatives. Its participation in international networks like “Sharing Cities” and the Green City Accord supports its progress. While challenges remain, Burgas is advancing toward a smart, sustainable future.
Read MoreBurgas Is at the Top of Smart Urban DevelopmentStruggles in Smart Cities Development in the Western Balkans: Key Factors and Statistics
This article examines the challenges of smart city development in the Western Balkans, including financial constraints, outdated infrastructure, and a shortage of skilled workers. Governance issues, public skepticism, and environmental concerns also hinder progress. The region requires comprehensive strategies, investment, and collaboration to overcome these obstacles and ensure equitable, sustainable urban growth.
Read MoreStruggles in Smart Cities Development in the Western Balkans: Key Factors and StatisticsSmart Technologies in Pancevo: Innovation and the Struggles of Maintenance
The article explores the adoption of smart technologies aimed at enhancing urban life in Pancevo, Serbia. While these innovations offer great potential, the city faces significant challenges in maintaining and upgrading them. The article examines both the successes and struggles of these technologies, offering valuable insights into the broader challenges faced by cities in the Western Balkans.
Read MoreSmart Technologies in Pancevo: Innovation and the Struggles of MaintenanceOrdos “Ghost City”: Navigating the Pitfalls of New City Development
Imagine a city built from scratch, with grand boulevards, futuristic architecture, and luxury homes—yet eerily empty. This is Ordos, China that began as a bold vision for urban transformation but quickly became a cautionary tale of overambition, speculative development, and the unpredictable forces of market economics. What went wrong? And how has Ordos managed to turn its story around, slowly finding new life amid its vast, empty streets? Writing about Ordos offers a unique lens on the complexities of modern city-building, the pitfalls of rapid urbanization, and the resilience required to reinvent a failed dream.
Read MoreOrdos “Ghost City”: Navigating the Pitfalls of New City DevelopmentBalancing Dreams and Realities: The Hardships of Creating New Cities
Numerous new city projects are currently being implemented across various countries, aiming to become smart cities, sustainable cities, or a combination of both. Building a completely new smart and sustainable city from scratch comes with numerous challenges, ranging from the initial stages of master planning to final execution and long-term operations. The article focuses on challenges which new city projects face.
Read MoreBalancing Dreams and Realities: The Hardships of Creating New CitiesIt All Starts Locally: World Urban Forum in Cairo
From 4–8 November 2024, Cairo hosted the largest World Urban Forum (WUF), drawing thousands of participants from 182 countries. The forum brought together policymakers, urban planners, business leaders, students, civil society representatives, and innovators to discuss some of the most…