Urban Surge

By Natalie Richards

Over the next 30 years, global trends are expected to see urban growth that is equivalent to the population of 250 additional cities with a population size of 10 million. This surge is put squarely into perspective when one realized there are only 32 cities of this magnitude in the world today.

The United Nations forecasts the most acute shifts in population distribution to occur within the Continents of Africa and Asia, where urban populations are expected to exceed twice their current size.

Despite the unprecedented levels of wealth, health and progress demonstrated globally, modern cities face unprecedented challenges. Above and beyond traditional concerns of governance, community leaders and decision-makers are charged with resolving major questions stemming from population growth, migration, social exclusion and inequality. As well there are issues surrounding climate change and sustainability. The ongoing trend of rural to urban migration places significant strain on municipal resources across the globe; no region is immune to this trend.

Urban surge is a challenge, but also provides a unique opportunity to improve community wellbeing by harnessing the potential of creative and human-centric design strategy. However, strategy must be informed by vision, and vision must be informed by high quality information.