Learning from best practices in sustainable urbanization

Abstract

Attempts for implementing sustainable urbanization have been reported and documented around the world. These efforts have led to a vast number of exemplary sustainable urbanization practices, classified as best practices. Best practices contain valuable information in the form of experiences, and learning from them represents an opportunity to replicate successful practices in other cities. This study collected and analyzed 185 best practices in sustainable urbanization from around the world. The main areas of action, the key methods adopted and the outcomes achieved by these practices were identified. Key elements in successful sustainable urbanization strategies were found by conducting a series of association analyses between the areas of action, methods and outcomes. Findings highlight the importance of community participation, capacity building, education, partnerships and job creation in achieving urban sustainability.