Urbanization continues at a record pace all over the world, especially in emerging and developing economies. China has decided that the best way for the government to deliver essential goods and services to rural people is to encourage them to move to existing and/or new cities and become urban dwellers. Cities are seen as destinations, especially for young people in search of employment, education, social contacts and cultural advantages. The future for the human race is in cities.

We need to learn more about cities and how they function. We know that they consume enormous quantities of materials and energy and release large quantities of wastes. Cities are the source of air, water and soil pollutants. Heat islands and CO2 domes, combined with particulates and ozone affect human health. Lack of park and green space disconnects urban residents from the natural world and may have adverse psychological effects.

In UEP2014 we will continue to explore the nature of the urban environment and how it affects human health and well-being.

TOPICS LIST:
Urban environments and how they function
CO2 greenhouse gases and warming
Air, water and soil pollutants
Human health in the city
Vegetation in the city
Built environment and urban climate
Alleviation of urban stress problems

Submit abstracts by 7 March 2014.
Young Research Scientist Award application deadline: 21 February 2014