Context and Overview
The document titled "How to build a better City in 2021" was uploaded to a public database on July 29, 2025. It features contributions from various urban experts and organizations, highlighting a collective effort towards creating more sustainable and inclusive urban environments. Key contributors include Lior Steinberg from Humankind, Dymphie Braun from Pakhuis de Zwijger, and multiple city captains and advocates for urban improvement.
Rethinking Urban Development
The document emphasizes the need for cities to shift focus from mere technological advancements and economic growth to prioritizing human well-being and happiness. It critiques the traditional approach of designing cities centered around car traffic and technological solutions, arguing that true "smart" cities are those that are fair, inclusive, and safe for all residents. This perspective has gained traction in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the inadequacies of current urban designs.
♀️ Promoting Walkability and Inclusivity
A recurring theme throughout the text is the call for walkable cities. The concept of the "15-minute city" is introduced, suggesting that all essential services should be accessible within a 15-minute walk, bike ride, or public transit trip. This approach aims to reduce dependency on cars, thereby promoting healthier lifestyles and more vibrant communities. The document also highlights the importance of creating spaces that accommodate all demographics, including children, the elderly, and marginalized groups.
Green Urban Spaces
The authors advocate for increasing green spaces within urban areas, such as parks and community gardens, which can enhance biodiversity and improve residents' quality of life. By converting unused parking lots into green spaces, cities can manage stormwater more effectively and combat urban heat. The integration of nature into urban planning is seen as vital for climate adaptation and resilience.
Infrastructure for Sustainable Transport
The document stresses the urgent need for cities to invest in cycling infrastructure to address environmental pollution and traffic congestion. It promotes the idea of bicycle subscriptions as a practical solution for creating greener urban environments. The text calls for a radical rethinking of mobility habits, prioritizing walking and cycling over private vehicle use.
Community Engagement and Social Cohesion
The importance of community engagement is highlighted, with an emphasis on creating opportunities for residents to connect and collaborate. Initiatives that focus on kindness, empathy, and shared experiences are seen as essential for fostering a sense of belonging and resilience among urban dwellers. The document encourages cities to invest in public spaces that facilitate social interactions and community building.
Local Food Systems
In light of the pandemic, there is a growing emphasis on local food systems, encouraging cities to develop integrated food policies that support local producers and promote food security. The document calls for direct connections between communities and local food producers to strengthen local economies and foster social inclusion.
Conclusion
Overall, "How to build a better City in 2021" serves as a comprehensive guide for urban leaders and planners aiming to create more sustainable, inclusive, and people-centered cities. The authors advocate a paradigm shift that prioritizes community needs, environmental sustainability, and social equity, urging cities to learn from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and to invest in long-term strategies for urban improvement.