The document discusses the importance and challenges of cities in achieving sustainability. It notes that cities are increasingly critical to economic prosperity but face issues regarding productivity, sustainability, and quality of life due to factors like urban sprawl, population growth, and demands on resources. Achieving sustainability will require coordinated efforts across areas like transportation, energy, water, and food systems through innovations that encourage dense, connected urban development and diversified, local and renewable sources.

1. Sustainability What it means for our cities Michael Chappell Director Pracsys Economics