Plan Philly: Engaging in Urban Dialogue

Sustainable development and sustainability have become important concepts in today’s planning world.  Efforts in this area are based on the recognition that current consumption and living habits may be leading to problems such as the overuse of natural resources, ecosystem destruction, urban heat islands, pollution, growing social inequality and large-scale climate change. The idea of sustainability is new and many question its value because of the tendency of politicians and others to use it as a buzzword without much meaning behind it.  When most people refer to cities that are more sustainable or energy-efficient, they typically refer to such qualities as: compact, efficient land use, less automobile use with better access by foot, transit and bike, efficient resource use, less pollution and waste, the restoration of natural systems, good housing and living environments, a healthy social ecology, sustainable economics, community participation and involvement, and preservation of local culture.  Sustainable design practices are becoming increasingly common in new development projects, but how to modify existing urban and suburban conditions with sustainable considerations remains a challenge.