Urbanization

The proportion of the world's population living in urban areas is expected to exceed 60 per cent by 2030. Urbanization creates problems such as pollution, overcrowding, congestion and large amounts of waste, which need to be addressed. In the face of such growth there is an urgent need to consider how urbanization can be better managed to improve its sustainability.

The challenge is to meet the everyday needs and hopes of urban people without harming the environment or living conditions of other people, both now and in the future. It is this idea of conserving resources for the benefit of future generations that is the principle behind sustainable development. This book also shows how the reader can play an active part in ensuring a more sustainable future.

'Databank' boxes give key facts, 'Opinion' panels highlight quotes from well-known speakers on the subject. There are also weblinks with useful website addresses which link to sites with more information about a particular topic.