This volume is concerned with problems related to development and planning, which affect both urban and rural areas. Accelerated urbanisation has resulted in the deterioration of the cities’ environment and loss of quality of life. Urban development can also aggravate problems faced by rural areas, such as forests and mountain regions, as well as coastal areas. Solutions are proposed towards reducing environmental impacts and the non-sustainable use of available resources. The interaction between different regions are taken into consideration and new methodologies for monitoring current detrimental conditions as well as planning and implementation of novel mitigating strategies are developed.

Special emphasis is placed on increasing efficiency and reducing emissions through energy-saving and eco-friendly building designs. Planning has a key role to play in ensuring that such approaches, as well as new materials and processes, are implemented in the most effective manner.

Academics, policymakers, practitioners and other stakeholders from across the globe discuss novel research findings and their incorporation in planning and development strategies, assessment tools and decision-making processes.