A composite report from each of the contributors to the PASCAL EcCoWell 2 Recovery Programme has recently been published. In a series of postings, we are now for the convenience of subscribers, publishing each report separately with a short introduction from the programme leader, Peter Kearns.

The Datong report illustrates what can be achieved at a district level in promoting learning and building community with leadership from a local community college. Taipei’s community colleges have been the main instruments for progressing the innovative Taipei learning city. The Datong report shows how this role continues to evolve with the focus of this report on building Taipei as an Eco-City and Happy Farm. The report shows how environmental objectives can be harnessed to promote the happiness and well-being of residents in the city.