Science on Cities

"By 2030, nearly 5 billion people will live in cities. This special issue explores the enormous implications of the mass embrace of city life."

"As Grimm et al. show, cities are hot spots of production, consumption, and waste generation. Already, according to the United Nations, cities are responsible for 75% of global energy consumption and 80% of greenhouse gas emissions. Without careful investment and planning, megacities (those with more than 10 million inhabitants) will be overwhelmed with burgeoning slums and environmental problems. There are advantages to city life, such as the relative proximity of health care and jobs. However, Mace describes continuing costs in terms of fertility, and Bloom et al. challenge a commonly accepted perception that urbanization fuels economic growth."

"Cities have taken novel approaches to dealing with urbanization. A News article explores how the Chinese government is encouraging a variety of schemes, including the development of 'eco-cities.' Other News items highlight success stories, including Bogotá's reduction of traffic fatalities, London's reduction of traffic jams, and Mexico's efforts to alleviate urban poverty."