Sustainable Urban Infrastructure Transitions in the ASEAN Region: A Resource Perspective

Drawing from the conclusions in the forthcoming global report of the International Resource Panel “The Weight of Cities: Resource Requirements of Future Urbanization” this regional report aims to support policy makers by delving into the specifics of the ASEAN member countries – their dense cities, economic growth characteristics, susceptibility to climate change impacts, high informality, relative political stability, and other characteristics – and shows a way forward that speaks to the opportunities and obstacles faced by regional leaders. The report also links ASEAN concerns to global processes, such as the Sustainable Development Goals, Paris Agreement, and the New Urban Agenda. It stresses the importance of linking global, regional, national, and local action, recognizing the role of various levels of governance in ensuring sustainable urbanization. The bottom line is that building sustainable cities is not the job of local government alone.