While there has been much recent research into achieving sustainability in urban areas, most of this is specific to a particular region. This volume broadens these discussions by extending the analysis from North American and European cities to include East Asian cities. Many cities in Asia have deep historical roots, have sustained dense populations through time and have grown prosperous in recent decades. They also face significant environmental degradation and other planning challenges. In bringing together and comparing strategies and experiences from three distinct global regions, this book offers unique insights and new perspectives on the challenges of moving towards greater urban sustainability. While questioning which strategies can promote sustainable cities in a global context, the book also illustrates that while formulae generated out of American and European experience cannot be universally applied, some of the analytical approaches and experience of the other developed countries can offer insights for those working in different contexts. It argues that managing urban change for greater urban sustainability in diverse regions requires detailed understanding of local issues and regional strategies as well as strong support from local communities.
'The volume is unique in using the contemporary discourse on urban sustainability as a bridge to research and policy in three different continents - Asia, Europe and North America. In particular, it places the challenges and recent experience in moving toward sustainable cities in Asia - the most rapidly growing part of our urban world - in a comparative context.' Larry Bourne, University of Toronto, Canada 'The book provides a welcome addition to the Western focus of the literature on urban sustainability...a useful contribution, particularly for those interested in growth management and the Asian experience.' Environment and Planning B: Planning and Design '...provides an enthralling treatise of sustainable development issues.' Centre for Education in the Built Environment: Projects and Initiatives
