What does the future of cities around the world look like?
Click start to play today’s Crossword, where “urban” is one of the answers to the clues.
The pandemic year – 2020 – was a critical one for cities. It affected the core of urban living, and caused governments worldwide to re-evaluate how well communities are equipped to support each other.
According to a September 2021 study by global auditing and consulting firm Deloitte, a few trends stand out when it comes to future urban development. At the centre of all the ideas is the importance of making cities more human, and nurturing a strong sense of connection.
Here are a few trends that Deloitte identified as part of the focus for global urban cities in the future:
1. Green planning
Cities are being planned for people, keeping their health and wellbeing front and centre, with ‘green’ streets, and public spaces that will serve as centres of social life.
2. 15-minute cities
Cities are being built keeping convenience in mind. Amenities and most services are within a 15-minute walking or cycling distance, creating a new approach for neighbourhoods.
3. Circular economy
This principle is based on a healthy circulation of resources, with an emphasis on limiting municipal waste volumes through recycling, producing locally (for instance, through urban farming), and sharing, reusing and restoring everything – from furniture to clothes.
4. Sustainable infrastructure
Going forwards, cities will have regenerated buildings – they will optimise energy consumption, along with the use and management of resources, such as water and energy.
5. Surveillance through AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) is going to be the modus operandi of city officials, to ensure safety and security for their residents, while safeguarding privacy.
Do you think their predictions are spot on? Play today’s Crossword and tell us at games@gulfnews.com.
