Why we need to future-proof our cities | Spotlight EP 3, Earthrise x Bloomberg

Summary

Urban expansion in the Global South will account for 95% of growth in the coming decades, yet these regions face the most severe climate impacts despite contributing little to the crisis. While wealthy nations invest in high-tech solutions, the Global South is turning to sustainable, low-cost methods like mud-based architecture and living bridges to adapt. From floodproofing homes in Manila to innovative water systems in Africa, these grassroots solutions highlight the need for inclusive, accessible climate strategies that benefit all, urging a shift from exclusive, high-tech solutions to those that can save us all.

Takeaways

• 😀 Urban expansion in the global South will account for 95% of growth in the coming decades, with many of these cities already facing extreme climate vulnerability.
• 🌍 The global South is disproportionately affected by climate change despite contributing little to emissions, while rich countries are responsible for 92% of excess emissions driving the crisis.
• 💡 Cities like Viera, Mozambique, and Yangon, Myanmar, are some of the most vulnerable to extreme weather events, but rarely receive enough attention or aid for adaptation.
• 🏙️ While wealthy nations can afford high-tech solutions to climate adaptation, the global South is developing low-cost, locally relevant solutions that deserve more global recognition.
• 🌱 Indigenous practices, such as mud-based construction in West Africa, are being revived as sustainable alternatives to modern concrete, offering energy efficiency and recyclability.
• 🌳 In North India, living tree bridges, made from fig trees, help communities cope with flooding during monsoon seasons, showcasing nature-based solutions to climate challenges.
• 🌧️ In Manila, residents have creatively flood-proofed their homes by elevating structures and waterproofing walls—simple, effective measures with no hefty price tags.
• 💧 Cities in the global South are developing sustainable water supply systems and zero-waste architecture to help adapt to climate change, often with local knowledge and community involvement.
• 🌍 The future of sustainable urban planning hinges on solutions that are not just for the wealthy but are accessible and effective for everyone, especially in the global South.
• 🏗️ We need to rethink urban development in a way that doesn’t just cater to the rich but builds resilient cities that can protect and uplift all populations, regardless of income or region.

Q & A

What percentage of urban expansion will take place in the global South in the coming decades?

95% of urban expansion in the next few decades will take place in the global South.

What is the relationship between the global South and climate vulnerability?

The global South, despite contributing little to climate change, is home to some of the most climate-vulnerable cities, which are severely affected by extreme weather events.

Who is primarily responsible for the climate crisis?

Rich countries are responsible for 92% of excess emissions, which directly cause the climate crisis.

What is the focus of the current conversation about urban adaptation to climate change?

There is a lot of focus on solutions for cities in rich nations, but cities in the global South, which are most vulnerable, are often left out of the conversation.

How are cities in the global South approaching the climate crisis differently than rich countries?

Cities in the global South are adopting more affordable, locally tailored solutions such as mud-based architecture, water-proofed homes, and sustainable infrastructure instead of relying on expensive high-tech solutions.

What is the significance of mud in urban planning in the global South?

Mud, traditionally used in indigenous architecture, is a highly energy-efficient material, capable of retaining heat in winter and staying cool in summer. It's being rediscovered as a sustainable building material in cities like Dakar, Senegal.

What are living bridges, and how do they contribute to climate adaptation?

Living bridges, made from the roots of fig trees, help communities in North India cope with swelling rivers during monsoons. These bridges provide protection from soil erosion and are being adapted in European cities as well.

How are residents of Manila adapting their homes to frequent flooding?

In Manila, residents in flood-prone areas lift their homes above street level and apply waterproof coatings to walls to protect against floodwaters.

What role do indigenous solutions play in the future of urban planning in the global South?

Indigenous solutions, such as mud construction and living bridges, offer highly sustainable, effective responses to climate challenges, demonstrating that traditional methods can be key to future urban planning in the global South.

What is the ultimate goal for urban planning in relation to climate change?

The goal is to build sustainable cities that can protect and serve everyone, not just the wealthy, ensuring that cities are resilient to climate change and can protect vulnerable populations worldwide.