Page 22 - Landscape-Issue160

BOOK REVIEW

HEALTHY CITIES, SHARED FUTURE

This book identifies the urgent need to reshape urban environments, enabling
public service officials worldwide to address the pressing issues confronting
the population – from lifestyle diseases and social inequity to the climate crisis.
As governments are tasked with serving the people and safeguarding the land,

the concept of urban sustainability lies in the ability of cities to respond to the
immediate needs of their residents, while preserving resources and opportunities
for future generations.

he book places emphasis on the
unequal impacts experienced by
Tmarginalised communities and
presents climate resilience strategies for
cities. These include adaptive urban planning,
investment in green infrastructure and the
integration of nature-based solutions. These
approaches are vital to ensuring that cities
are prepared for environmental challenges
and that they can adapt to rapidly changing
conditions.
Exploring the social aspects of urban
resilience, the book highlights the
importance of health and wellbeing,
equity and community engagement.
Effective policy frameworks, leadership and
governance mechanisms are important for
a paradigm shift towards sustainable urban
areas. In prioritising long-term, inclusive and
adaptable solutions, cities can become the
places where everyone can thrive.

“The economic growth and
welfare of the community
is dependent on the
careful maintenance
and inclusion of natural

vegetation and trees
within the city.”

DR Michael Leech, SACLAP.
The book is published by Micromega
Publications and edited by Maliga Naidoo,
Director of the Academy of Leisure Sciences
Africa. She is a passionate advocate of
parks and leisure and a firm believer in
the transformative power of green spaces,
championing their role in boosting human
resilience and peoples’ connection to nature.
Her academic foundation is complemented
by her expertise as an exercise physiologist
specialising in lifestyle diseases, and her
work consistently centres on transforming
public environments to enhance health and
wellbeing in communities.
www.madeindurban.co.za n

20 Landscape SA • Issue 160 2025 Check us out www.salandscape.co.za