Sustainable development is the way forward for future cities; Image copyright: André J Fanthome
The global impact of human intervention on our ecosystems is evident, affecting economies, livelihoods, food security, and the overall quality of life. Human civilisation and technology have irreversibly transformed the planet, leading to challenges like population decline, deforestation, pollution, climate change, and more.
Table of Content:
The Challenge of Sustainable Urban Development
Currently, 55% of the world’s population lives in urban areas, a figure expected to rise to 68% by 2050[1]. In developing nations like India, especially, urban spaces play a vital role in influencing the economy. As urbanisation accelerates, especially in low-income countries, managing growth becomes crucial for sustainable development. Meeting the requirements of fundamental services such as housing, transportation, and community spaces for a burgeoning urban population is a humungous challenge for many countries.
In India, at the current pace of urbanisation, the urban population is set to double to an estimated 800 million by 2050[2]. Researchers suggest that a significant 70-80% of the essential infrastructure to facilitate this transformation is yet to be developed.[3]
It is crucial for us to realise that our urban systems must now become self-sustainable ecosystems. At Morphogenesis, we believe that practising responsible urbanism would lay the foundation for sustainable cities in the future.
A Model for Sustainable Development: Uttorayon Township
Created as a model for a low-cost development, The Uttorayon Township in Siliguri, enhances community living while respecting the environment. The design aims to respect the natural topography for an integrated surface drainage system, saving costs and ensuring sustainable development.
Developing an Optimal Community Cluster – The Uttorayon Township; Image copyright: Morphogenesis
The township successfully uses simple technologies to tackle complex problems. Innovative wastewater and stormwater management systems and treatment, and all waste disposal within the township helped minimise the impact on the surrounding developments. Resources available have been equitably distributed throughout the township to provide for uniform scales of development. While these services are exceptional by Indian standards, the total developing cost of the project added up to only US$6 per square metre providing a sustainable and self-sufficient model for development.
The cluster organisation is designed to aid multiple configurations that can respond to changing social demands and has successfully fostered a close community; Image copyright: André J Fanthome
Tackling Urbanization Challenges Through Sustainable Measures
Urbanisation, environmental sensitivity, and a greener world are core issues that need to be assimilated into our thinking and consciousness and need to be addressed today. Developing policies for high-density housing that regulate the Floor Area Ratio (F.A.R.), curb encroachments in low-lying areas, and ensure inclusive housing for all communities in its vicinity is crucial. Moreover, proposing a comprehensive policy for protecting and conserving natural and manmade water systems is imperative.
We need to consciously work towards global financial and economic models of development to build a sustainable economy, steering away from the currently limited paradigm of economic growth. We need to develop solutions that are comprehensive and easily applicable to slowing and ultimately reversing global warming and climate change.
