In many countries, you will often hear people start a conversation by talking about the weather. The typical explanation for this is that weather is such a neutral topic that it is relatively safe to use it as an opening line. But, to what extent is this changing? Climate change is a variation in the “average weather,” which scientifically refers to the statistical … [Read more...] about Two ways that cities can adapt to climate change
Inclusive cities: 4 examples of urban productivity through gender equality
The process of urbanization in Latin America—the most urbanized region on the planet—has had both positive and negative effects. On one hand, the effects of agglomeration in cities such as the concentration of employment opportunities, the diversification of human capital, and massive investment in infrastructure and public services have improved the quality of life of urban … [Read more...] about Inclusive cities: 4 examples of urban productivity through gender equality
10 Platforms to Monitor Hurricanes and Disasters in Cities
As the world’s population becomes increasingly concentrated in cities, we are witnessing the urbanization of disasters. Hurricanes Florence, Maria and Irma and recent earthquakes in Ecuador, Haiti, and Mexico all underscore urban risk. And smaller scale events like fires and floods can have disproportionately large impacts in cities given high population … [Read more...] about 10 Platforms to Monitor Hurricanes and Disasters in Cities
Informality – the Essence of Cities of the South. Reflections from the 8th Caribbean Urban Forum and a Shout-out to Anthony Bourdain
Informality is not irrationality! This was my main take-away from the recently concluded 8th Caribbean Urban Forum held in Kingston, Jamaica. The theme was forming the informal, a deliberate deviation from the more conventional prescription of formalizing the informal. Narratives of the resourcefulness and resilience of Caribbean communities in the face of very challenging … [Read more...] about Informality – the Essence of Cities of the South. Reflections from the 8th Caribbean Urban Forum and a Shout-out to Anthony Bourdain
Urban Sustainability in the Caribbean: the case of Nassau, Bahamas
Sustainable urbanization in the Caribbean is a real and present development challenge. Caribbean cities are often small but not compact. They have immeasurable natural assets but are exposed to severe climate events. They have quality basic education, but struggle to prevent qualified professionals from migrating abroad. Grand hotels and beach resorts are juxtaposed by … [Read more...] about Urban Sustainability in the Caribbean: the case of Nassau, Bahamas