Rents and repayments alone are not the only expense attached to our buildings. Many are leaking energy, leaving a hole in our pockets as well as climate ambitions. And it’s high time to fix them.
Category: Cities
The workers leaving cities in favor of the countryside – And what it means for business
Two years after the onset of COVID-19, the future of work remains a topic of lively, even heated, debate. Early in the pandemic, some were quick to announce the demise of the centre-city office. The apparent success of remote work, they said, would lead to a revival of the suburbs, exurbs, and rural areas, with “work hubs” popping up as needed.
Unlocking water security in Africa: Mayors hold the key
With mounting pressures on water resources from climate, urbanisation and demographic trends in Africa, more partnerships between national and local leaders are needed. Mayors in particular now need to turn the key to unlock the development of better water policies for better lives.
Keeping food on the table: cities for sustainable food systems
By 2050, up to 55% of the world population will be living in urban areas, consuming 80% of the world’s food. Already around a third of produced food goes to waste at a value of USD 940 billion annually.
Covid-19 and commercial real estate: the threat to city finances
Mass adoption of remote working has reduced the value of living close to city centers along with demand for office space. A sharp adjustment in property prices is likely, presenting cities with significant fiscal risks. In response, mayors will need to rethink the role of city centers and actively work to shore up revenues.
New faces in new places? The new geography of work
Teleworking transformed the world of work for many over the last two years. Many commentators have speculated that it will change our geography too – as people leave cities for greener environments and more affordable housing.
Old tool for the new school: the return of social housing in cities
After decades of favouring market-based solutions, cities are increasingly deploying social housing as a means to address the worldwide urban housing crisis.
Can office conversion help solve the housing crisis in cities?
The rise of remote working during the COVID-19 crisis significantly reduced activity in cities’ business districts, renewing policy makers’ interest in turning underused office buildings into much needed residential housing in cities. This creates a unique window of opportunity to shape more sustainable and inclusive urban development.