Go wild in the cities to help save the planet

Ruth Richardson of Levitt Bernstein

A rewilding policy is not just for rural areas. We should be designing urban environments that safeguard our future, argues Ruth Richardson

The global population is set to reach 11bn by the end of the century. That’s an additional 3.2bn people compared with today, in a world where many cities are already facing serious housing crises.

Add to this the fact that global warming is threatening the very existence of humans – and many other species – at an exponential rate and, among other issues, placing significant pressure on food and resources. The concept of “rewilding” the planet is therefore something of a necessity if we are to address these issues. 

Last month the government pledged to protect 30% of the nation’s countryside by 2030 in a bid to aid biodiversity recovery. That’s an extra 400,000ha on top of what we have now. Many other countries are doing something similar.

This is premium content. 

Only logged in subscribers have access to it.

Login or SUBSCRIBE to view this story

Gated access promo

Existing subscriber? LOGIN

A subscription to Building Design will provide:

  • Unlimited architecture news from around the UK
  • Reviews of the latest buildings from all corners of the world
  • Full access to all our online archives
  • PLUS you will receive a digital copy of WA100 worth over £45.

Subscribe now for unlimited access.

Alternatively REGISTER for free access on selected stories and sign up for email alerts