The Challenge

Today, at the turn of the 21st century, we are facing a new stage in city building, the challenge to build cities for everyone: cities that are environmentally safe and efficient, cities that are healthy and socially good, and cities that can address the economic needs of society. We need to build the sustainable city.

A city is the most complex phenomenon that man has created. It addresses major needs of civilization - of human interaction, economic development and culture. But it was also burdened with major problems of environmental management and social structure. A new understanding of good urban planning and community life addresses major problems created during the last decades. It deals with environmental issues and resource and waste flows; traffic flows and infrastructure; economic development and social integration; the concepts of cultural roots and identity; and the cultures of citizenship and city administration.

The rebuilding of cities is already a major concern. Several major programs for the reconstruction and revitalization of residential areas exist. Many areas, formerly used for other purposes such as military or industrial, are being rebuilt for new uses. In Central and Eastern Europe the ongoing economic transformation leads to an increased demand for better housing and living conditions.

Project part-financed by the European Union (European Regional Development Fund) within the BSR INTERREG III B Neighbourhood Programme.

 

© 2007 Baltic University Programme