Climate change with its manifold manifestation requires compact small cities with high density (skyscrapers) with white or green (vegetation grown) top roofs of building. In India old cities in their core still have intact narrow winding lanes probably as a precaution from sun. In-between greenbelts and green corridors leading to small compct satellite towns.
I would like to see the topic with reference to relationship between the low/high density cities and greenhouse gas emissions (climate change mitigation). Cities in developed countries have often been accountable for generating most of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions; for example, some estimates indicate that cities are responsible for about 75 percent of global energy consumption and 80 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, there is a need to reduce ecological foot print/carbon foot print from cities. Both low density and high density cities have positive and negative aspects. Low density cities provide spacious living, much freedom and amenities however, the carbon foot print would be much higher in low density cities (due to higher per capita energy, water usages, higher automobile emissions being located far away from the CBD and there may not be public transport connection in low density cities). On the other hand, the high density cities use land and other resources more efficiently. In general, the smaller-than-average house unit size in dense cities means it require less energy to heat, light, cool, and power the buildings. Since homes and businesses are close by in high density cities, it would encourage walking, cycling and the use of public transport causing much less greenhouse gas emissions.
Dear Ajay! Urban form is matter as each form requires different intensity of resource utilization either for living of city dwellers or driving related economic activities.
I agree that forms matter, however as urban planning student, I would love to have clear picture about what kind of urban form need to be promoted and encouraged to adapt climate change implications and why mainly in 3rd world city?