China's Cities: All Show, No Substance?

Chinese urban sprawl has the potential to be transformed into urban sustainability.

1 minute read

July 29, 2010, 7:00 AM PDT

By Tim Halbur


Erica Schlaikjer, of TheCityFix.com, writes about the state in which growing urban areas of China find themselves and the potential for future sustainable growth.

Cities in China are "becoming ever less habitable," and their future will depend on an "urban awakening" that includes the Chinese government's support of public participation in urban planning and decision-making, says Zhang Song, a professor at Tongji University's College of Architecture and Urban Planning, in a two-part interview on chinadialogue.

Thanks to Garrett Bradford

Tuesday, July 27, 2010 in TheCityFix

courses user

As someone new to the planning field, Planetizen has been the perfect host guiding me into planning and our complex modern challenges. Corey D, Transportation Planner

As someone new to the planning field, Planetizen has been the perfect host guiding me into planning and our complex modern challenges.

Corey D, Transportation Planner

Ready to give your planning career a boost?

View of dense apartment buildings on Seattle waterfront with high-rise buildings in background.

Seattle Legalizes Co-Living

A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.

December 1, 2024 - Smart Cities Dive

SunRail passenger train at platform in Poinciana, Florida.

Central Florida’s SunRail Plans Major Expansion

The expanded train line will connect more destinations to the international airport and other important destinations.

November 24, 2024 - Hoodline

Times Square in New York City empty during the Covid-19 pandemic.

NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project

Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.

December 1, 2024 - StreetsBlog NYC

White Memphis Area Transit Authority bus on street in Memphis, Tennessee.

Limited Transit Access Stifling Memphis Economy

The city ranks low for transit access to jobs, limiting opportunities for local workers and businesses.

30 minutes ago - WREG

Row of old brick homes in Flushing, Queens, New York with high-rise buildings in background.

NYC Likely to Legalize ADUs as Part of ‘City of Yes’ Reforms

Homeowners in some neighborhoods could soon be able to build accessory dwelling units in their backyards, garages, or basements.

1 hour ago - Business Insider

Close-up of hand holding small white square thermoelectric generator in lab with computer in background.

Harnessing Waste Heat Through Thermoelectricity

Heat from industrial installations and buildings can be captured to create renewable electricity.

December 3 - Fast Company

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.

Planning for Universal Design

Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.