World
Global issues, U.N., etc.
Breaking the 'Blue Covenant'
In this interview about her new book, "Blue Covenant," Maude Barlow argues that current and future shortages of fresh water aren't the result of drought, but rather the massive overuse, abuse and mismanagement of water sources.
Will Private Ownership Save the Environment?
Private individuals, investors and charities are buying up environmentally sensitive land all over the world for preservation, but this article wonders whether this method is really such a good idea.
Science on Cities
The latest issue of Science is dedicated to looking at cities, their development and the changing demographics that are shaping our urban lifestyles.
It's a Man, Man, Man, Man World
Some geologists believe that humanity's effects on the planet are so significant and enduring that the Earth has entered a new epoch: the Anthropocene.
From 'Peak Oil' to 'Peak Food'
The increasing use of food grains in biofuels, rising meat consumption in Asia and perverse government farming subsidies are having a serious effect on global food security.
Making Happier Cities
More cities across the globe are pushing civic improvement projects that seek to improve both the local economy and the happiness of its people.
The Widening Gyres
Scientists are warning that unless consumers use fewer plastics and oceangoing vessels and oil platforms dispose of their wastes differently, gigantic plastic Garbage Patches swirling in the Pacific gyres will continue to grow.
Curitiba's Jaime Lerner Discusses Sustainable Cities
This March 2007 presentation from the TED conference features former Curitiba Mayor Jaime Lerner discussing the rise of the sustainable city.
Growing and Greening
A recent report argues that for developing countries, improving environmental health is dependent on improving economic health. But proper governing is crucial in meeting these ends.
Waterfree Urinals Pay Big Efficiency Dividends
Waterfree urinals are a sterling example of the benefits offered by new technology. Forged from a partnership between manufacturers and labor groups, waterfree urinals save 6 billion gallons of water a year from the Rose Bowl to the Taj Mahal.
When Climate Changes, Preservation Changes
Climate change is throwing a wrench into the gears of many preservation efforts.
Globalization and the Power of Urban Tourism
Cities across the world are stressing the importance of tourism in supporting local economies. In this article, Susan Fainstein wonders if globalization will result in an overall reduction in the type and variety of urban places and attractions.
Calling the Kettle Black
The launch of the Tata microcar has raised concerns about a huge magnification of traffic congestion and pollution. But without changes in the developed world, such criticisms are hypocritical, write Brendan Smith, Tim Costello and Jeremy Brecher.
Tapping Into the Wisdom of Crowds
In this article, author James Surowiecki discusses the idea that -- contrary to common assumption -- there is a lot of wisdom to be found in crowds.
Friday Funny: Caped Crusaders Serving Cities
Superheroes exist outside the pages of comic books, and they are committed to improving their communities. Though there are few "supervillains" to tackle, these superheroes serve their cities through civic volunteerism and general do-goodery.
Eco-Villages Rising Slowly, But Steadily
Despite slow going at the eco-intentional community Arcosanti in Arizona, hundreds of similar "eco-villages" have popped up around the world.
...And Not a Drop to Drink
Desalination plants are being seen as the solution to declines in global freshwater supplies. But as Scott Thill reports, the plants may be an environmental disaster in the making.
The Threat of Ocean Acidification
There is growing evidence that the gravest peril for ocean species may be posed by “the other CO2 problem” — acidification of the world’s oceans as a consequence of the influx of carbon dioxide generated by human activities.
New President Could Slow Population Growth
This op-ed form The Christian Science Monitor argues that a new president would most likely enact policies to encourage family planning throughout the country and across the globe.
Urban Innovators on List of Planet Heroes
The Guardian has released a list of the "50 people who could save the planet," including some urban innovators who are changing the way the world thinks about cities.
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.
EMC Planning Group, Inc.
Planetizen
Planetizen
Mpact (formerly Rail~Volution)
Great Falls Development Authority, Inc.
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
