There is a widespread consensus that progress towards sustainable development is essential. Human activity cannot continue to use resources at the present rate without jeopardizing opportunities for future generations. Cities are the main arena of human activity, but they are also the greatest consumers of natural resources. However, urban sustainability is not just about environmental concerns, it is also about economic viability, liveability and social equity. Recently, much attention has focused on the relationship between urban form and sustainability, the suggestion being that the shape...

Representing a major advance in the sustainable development debate, this text moves on from theoretical discourse about sustainable urban forms to proven knowledge and good practice. It presents research which defines elements of sustainable urban form - density, size, configuration, detailed design and quality - from macro to micro scale. Case studies from Europe, the USA and Australia are used to illustrate good practice within the fields of planning, urban design and architecture.

Achieving Sustainable Urban Form represents a major advance in the sustainable development debate. It presents research which defines elements of sustainable urban form - density, size, configuration, detailed design and quality - from macro to micro scale. Case studies from Europe, the USA and Australia are used to illustrate good practice within the fields of planning, urban design and architecture.

This book presents the latest thinking on the benefits and dangers of higher density urban living. It offers diverse opinions and research, from a wide range of disciplines, and gives an insight into both the theoretical debate and the practical challenges surrounding the compact city. Essential reading for anyone with an interest in sustainable urban development.