Cities around the world are growing and increasingly more people are moving from rural to urban areas. Today, 55 % of the world’s population lives in cities, and by 2050, the number is expected to be about 68 %.
Increased urbanization has many positive outcomes and can connect people, reduce poverty and foster human development. At the same time, the increased pressure on cities leads to a stronger need to build sustainable cities and offer public services such as sustainable public transport systems, waste management and efficient energy solutions.
In order to deliver these solutions and create cities that are sustainable in the longer term, new technological solutions – together with good governance that consider the social aspects of sustainability – are needed.
Sweden works to create smart cities where social sustainability plays a major part. Green areas help create meeting places, and they also play the role of air cleaners, water collectors and noise reducers. By building in favour of bikes and pedestrians, car traffic has been reduced in the city centres, leading to better health among the residents.
Read more about renewal of city districts
