Euroscience Open Forum 2012

For the first time we have entered an urban age in which most of our species now live in cities. By 2050 it is predicted that 75% of us will live in cities. These cities are home to 'homo urbanis' and are the crucibles of the future. The number of 'smart cities' that seek to address sustainability goals is increasing, but what can be missing is a comprehensive, systematic and holistic approach to the challenge. The focus of this session will be on climate change and resource depletion. We will review what we have learned about the challenges associated with urban sustainability to-date and apply that learning to the sustainability challenges facing us.

Participants will be challenged to focus on the practical implementation issues surrounding urban sustainability initiatives, the challenges associated with diverse stakeholder engagement and the emerging technologies that hold the promise of breakthroughs in sustainability and better quality lives for all.