The Asia‐Pacific Co‐operation (APEC) region, which comprises 21 developed and developing economies, is expected to become predominantly urban by 2020 with at least 15 cities…
Abstract
The Asia‐Pacific Co‐operation (APEC) region, which comprises 21 developed and developing economies, is expected to become predominantly urban by 2020 with at least 15 cities exceeding 10 million inhabitants. Whether such megacities will be “healthy” in the sense of physical, mental and social wellbeing is critical to the future of the region. A modified scenario creation technique has been used in this study of APEC megacities to 2020. Fifteen key issues have been identified and these can be grouped using the concept of cities as living organisms. A healthy megacity is one which reduces its resource inputs and waste outputs, whilst simultaneously improving the quality of life for its inhabitants. The study concludes that healthy megacities are possible if appropriate policy actions are taken.
Details
Keywords
Greg Tegart and Ainsley Jolley
Increasing urbanization in the Asia and Pacific region is leading to a rapid increase in the number of megacities. A major concern is the issue of sustainable transport. This…
Abstract
Increasing urbanization in the Asia and Pacific region is leading to a rapid increase in the number of megacities. A major concern is the issue of sustainable transport. This article describes the procedures used and results of a multi‐economy foresight study of sustainable transport in megacities of the Asia‐Pacific region. Key issues and policy actions needed are identified.
Details
Keywords
This paper discusses the emergence of nanotechnology as a major new technology thrust which will revolutionize all aspects of the economy and society in the twenty‐first century…
Abstract
This paper discusses the emergence of nanotechnology as a major new technology thrust which will revolutionize all aspects of the economy and society in the twenty‐first century. This development results from the convergence of the fields of physics, chemistry,biology and engineering at the nanometer level (1 nm=10−9 m). At this level new phenomena operate and new devices and processes can be developed. The boundary between the established field of microtechnology and the new field of nanotechnology is blurred but it is clear that integrated technologies will be developed. In view of the importance of such developments in the Asia‐Pacific region the APEC Center for Technology Foresight carried out a wide‐ranging foresight study of nanotechnology in 2002/2003 and this is reported here. The study provides the strategic policy intelligence to enable economies to improve their strategic planning to deal with future changes stemming from nanotechnology.