Around 2.5 billion more people will be living in cities by 2050, that is to say, two out of every three people are likely to be living in cities or other urban centres. Along with climate change and other challenges, to ensure the quality of life, we are in dire need of more sustainable and resilient urban planning.
In this process of profound transformation, some key transitions are needed. The urban planning, architecture, construction, real estate, transport, technology industries all have roles to play.
With COP26 fast approaching, it is critical to explore how cities can lead the transition to a low carbon and climate-resilient economy.
Climate resilience is a key consideration in infrastructure planning. Infrastructure development and planning pave the way for sustainable, resilient, and inclusive cities. Cities should depend on, value and maintain strong links to the environment and strive for restoration of the natural world. All buildings should reach net-zero operational carbon emissions. Buildings must be designed to minimize material use and maximize suitability for renovation and adaptation. Recycled and renewable materials that are regeneratively managed should sit at the core of construction.
Over the next ten years business and policy makers require to implement a number of concrete actions that will make the above transitions possible. For instance, implement short-medium- and long-term science-based targets to reduce the whole life carbon footprint of built structures toward net-zero emissions. Through unlocking the potential of digitalization to facilitate data recording and transfer among stakeholders, more holistic urban planning, greater transparency and enhanced efficiency across the built environment sector can be achieved. Future-proof buildings and infrastructure to withstand environmental, social and health-related shocks through urban planning, performance standards, as well as leveraging on emerging technologies.
Keeping in the key transitions outlined above and the call to action for business and policy makers, this webinar wishes to show case best practice and case studies that can help attendees understand that solutions are available and at reach.
