Rapid urbanization is an opportunity to build more sustainable, equitable and efficient cities and towns, according to ‘Integrating the Environment in Urban Planning and Management: Key Principles and Approaches for Cities in the 21st Century,' a report by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and Cities Alliance.

Earlier Policy Briefings from PASCAL International Observatory have highlighted the importance of learning for the future of cities and of city authorities themselves demanding more of the universities and other higher education institutions within their regions.  This briefing is focussed on the development of an effective regional role in regional development by these higher education institutions themselves.