Eco2 cities: ecological cities as economic cities

An overview of the ‘Eco2 Cities: Ecological Cities as Economic Cities’ Program, helping cities in developing countries achieve greater ecological and economic sustainability, also addresses proactive risk management.

Divided into three parts, part one is describes the approach, background and rationale, key challenges, and lessons drawn from cities which have managed to turn these challenges into opportunities. Part two outlines a City-based Decision Support System that introduces a set of core methods and tools to help cities as they develop their own Eco2 pathway towards applying the steps outlined in part one. Part three is a ‘Field Reference Guide’ containing background literature designed to support cities in developing more of an in-depth insight and fluency with the issues at two levels.

The Eco2 Cities Program is an integral part of the World Bank’s new Urban Strategy which is currently being developed in consultation with stakeholders. The Eco2 Cities Program is also complementary to the ongoing efforts the World Bank and its development partners are making in sustainable development and climate change.