Starting the journey towards sustainable cities

As someone who has lived most of my life in cities, I have always been fascinated by how they grow, why they attract people and help generate ideas and innovations, but also how they can be well managed — especially as they expand. With more than half the world’s population living in conurbations — a figure that will rise to seven out of 10 by 2050, according to the World Bank — understanding the answers will become more critical. On top of that comes the challenge that climate change presents, and the need for cities to contribute towards the efforts to reduce harmful emissions.

I have embarked on an MSc Master's course in sustainable cities at Birkbeck College, University of London, and will use this blog to explore issues that are covered on this course and how they relate to the ongoing debate about how to make cities productive, pleasant and sustainable places to live.