Michael Dudley

<p>The New York City Parks and Recreation Department is being criticized for continuing to use Amazonian Ipe wood for its park benches and boardwalks.</p>

<p>The 164-story Barj Dubai is just one of many examples of architecture's new obsession with enormous buildings. While undeniably spectacular, these structures also raise questions about their social and environmental sustainability.</p>

<p>Israel is planning to construct a so-called "Palestinian Highway", which critics believe will be used to fragment Palestinian territory.</p>

<p>The mortgage crisis is contributing to a dramatic increase in homeless families.</p>

<p>With the housing market faltering, developers are eyeing an emerging and lucrative market: luxurious garages for expensive cars.</p>