As cities worldwide continue to experience rapid urbanization, the associated environmental challenges have become increasingly evident. The detrimental effects of air and water pollution, deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and heightened greenhouse gas emissions have raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of our urban centers. The relentless pursuit of economic growth in urban areas has exacerbated these challenges, leading to overconsumption and environmental degradation.

It is clear that our current course is unsustainable, and urgent action is required to address the pressing issues arising from urban development. Some regions have faced persistent urban crises that are neither accidental nor temporary. The emergence of terms such as ” degrowth” signal appetite amongst built environmental experts of a sustained future. Degrowth advocates for a deliberate reduction in consumption and economic activity to achieve a more balanced and equitable society. By prioritizing well-being over material wealth and promoting sustainable living practices, it is believed that we can work towards mitigating the environmental impacts of urbanization and fostering a healthier and more resilient community.

Nevertheless, a critical aspect that merits consideration in this discourse is the inclusion of impoverished nations that continue to grapple with basic necessities. Merely focusing on well-being may prove insufficient for these countries, where access to fundamental resources remains a challenge. Addressing material scarcity must also be a priority to ensure that all communities can participate in and benefit from sustainable development initiatives.

However , those against degrowth although they widely acknowledged that the degrowth movement poses pertinent criticisms of the prevailing ideology of economic growth and urban development. The central question that emerges from this discourse is whether the degrowth movement offers viable solutions to the multifaceted challenges we face today. Is it tenable to suggest that our only alternatives lie between the impending spectre of ecological collapse or embracing a paradigm of deliberate economic contraction?

In light of these concerns, the ISOCARP Scientific Committee has organised a seminar with the focus on “Degrowth as an Alternative Solution for Sustainable Urban Planning. A Myth or Reality ” This seminar aims to explore the concept of degrowth as a means to achieve more balanced and equitable urban development practices.