Sustainable Urbanisation

Sustainable urbanisation refers to the development of cities that meet the needs of present and future populations while preserving the environment. It seeks to harmonise urban growth with ecological balance. The concept is increasingly vital as urban populations continue to rise globally.

Urbanisation Trends

Urbanisation is the process of people moving from rural areas to cities. Currently, over 4.2 billion people, or 55% of the global population, live in urban settings. Projections suggest this number will exceed 5 billion by 2030. By 2050, approximately 68% of the world’s population is expected to reside in urban areas.

Historical Context of Urbanisation

Historically, urbanisation has evolved . In 1901, only 11.4% of India’s population lived in urban areas. This figure is projected to rise to 40% by 2025. Urbanisation has been a key factor in economic development and social change.

Economic Significance of Cities

Cities are economic powerhouses. They contribute over 80% of global gross national product (GNP). Urban areas encourage innovation, job creation, and economic activities that drive national economies.

Challenges in Urban Development

Despite the economic benefits, urban development often neglects sustainability. In India, urban planning has focused on real estate and road expansion. This has led to severe pollution and traffic congestion. Motorised transport contributes to 60% of urban pollution.

Pollution Crisis in Urban Areas

Air pollution is issue in many cities, particularly in India. It severely impacts health and life expectancy. For instance, residents in Delhi may lose up to 11.9 years of life due to pollution. The expansion of grey infrastructure and increased vehicular emissions exacerbate the problem.

Environmental Degradation

Urbanisation has led to the degradation of urban commons, green spaces, and water bodies. Construction activities contribute to air pollution, accounting for 10% of pollution levels in some cities. Road dust and emissions from industrial units further worsen air quality.

Significance of Sustainable Urbanisation

Sustainable urbanisation is crucial for various reasons:

• Access to Clean Water: It addresses water scarcity in urban areas.
• Affordable Housing: Promotes equitable land management for housing initiatives.
• Effective Waste Management: Enhances waste treatment processes in growing cities.
• Enhanced Transportation: Focuses on eco-friendly public transport solutions.
• Equitable Resource Allocation: Ensures fair distribution of resources.
• Environmental Sustainability: Aims to create eco-friendly environments.

Government Initiatives

Governments play important role in promoting sustainable urbanisation. Key initiatives include:

• Atal Mission for Urban Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT): Aims to improve basic services and infrastructure.
• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U): Seeks to provide affordable housing for all by 2022.
• Climate Smart Cities Assessment Framework 2.0: Promotes sustainable practices in urban areas.
• TULIP
  The Urban Learning Internship Program: Offers practical experience in urban planning.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan: Encourages self-reliance and economic growth.

Waste Management Innovations

Effective waste management is essential for sustainable urbanisation. Key strategies include:

• Distributed Waste-to-Energy Systems: Encourages community-based waste management.
• Decentralised Waste Management: Promotes partnerships for efficient waste processing.
• Small-Scale Waste-to-Energy Plants: Converts municipal waste into renewable energy.

Smart Water Management

Water management is vital for urban sustainability. Innovative approaches include:

• Smart Water Metering: Detects leaks and optimises distribution.
• Advanced Wastewater Treatment: Recycles water for non-potable uses.

Urban Digital Twins

Digital twins are virtual replicas of urban areas. They help simulate and analyse various scenarios. This technology aids in urban planning and resource management. Predictive modelling using artificial intelligence enhances decision-making based on real-time data.

Sponge City Concept

The Sponge City concept integrates permeable surfaces and green infrastructure. It aims to enhance water retention and flood mitigation. This approach promotes the preservation of natural water bodies and wetlands within urban landscapes.

Smart City Infrastructure

Smart city technologies improve urban efficiency. They include:

• Intelligent Traffic Management: Reduces congestion and emissions.
• Smart Grids: Enhances energy efficiency.
• IoT-Enabled Services: Improves public service delivery.

Fire Risk Assessment Systems

Real-time fire risk assessment systems utilise sensors to monitor environmental conditions. They assess fire risk and trigger alerts to residents and authorities. This enhances public safety in high-risk areas.

Cybersecurity and Digital Resilience

As cities become more digital, cybersecurity is paramount. Robust measures protect critical infrastructure from threats. Implementing redundancy ensures continuity of services during cyber incidents.

Biophilic Design in Urban Spaces

Biophilic design integrates nature into urban environments. It enhances the quality of life for residents. Examples include green roofs and rainwater gardens. These features promote biodiversity and improve air quality.

Community Engagement in Urban Planning

Engaging communities in urban planning is essential. It ensures that developments meet local needs. Participatory processes encourage transparency and collaboration between citizens and authorities.

Global Examples of Sustainable Urbanisation

Several cities worldwide exemplify sustainable urbanisation. For instance, Copenhagen is renowned for its cycling infrastructure. Singapore’s Jewel Changi Airport showcases biophilic design. These cities serve as models for others seeking sustainable solutions.

Future of Sustainable Urbanisation

The future of urbanisation hinges on sustainable practices. As populations grow, cities must adapt to changing needs. Emphasis on green technology and community involvement will shape urban landscapes.

Conclusion

Sustainable urbanisation is a multifaceted challenge. It necessitates collaboration among governments, communities, and businesses. The integration of innovative technologies and sustainable practices is vital for creating resilient urban environments.