The business of sustainable cities Book

Ultimately, to be sustainable, cities must function for peoples, protect their health, provide shelter, and offer opportunities for employment and cultural expression. Leaders around the world are seeking new answers to these requirements by revisiting traditional approaches and pursuing innovative solutions. In this report international, national, nongovernmental, and public and private business and industry leaders and officials present their approaches to urban energy, transportation, and solid waste services that advance environmentally sustainable development. In each case the approach improves the quality of life in cities and presents new entrepreneurial opportunities. As detailed in this publication, new efficiencies and more effective services in these sectors are not only possible but proven, and they are well worth examining in a time of diminishing fiscal resources and increasing human needs in sprawling cities. Of vital importance, these innovations in delivering energy, transportation, and waste management services reduce or avoid environmental health effects. In many cases they invite privatization and demonstrate cooperative approaches between public and private entities, as well as encourage alliances among business, industry, and municipal leaders. The evidence in this report points to new directions in investments and technology choices that are responsive not only to the goals of Agenda 21 and the work of the Commission on Sustainable Development, but also to the World Conference on Human Settlements, HABITAT II.