India needs to transition from a growth-at-any-cost model

India's rapid urbanisation necessitates a paradigm shift from growth-at-any-cost to a sustainable urban development model. This approach focuses on creating cities that are not only economically vibrant but also environmentally resilient and socially inclusive, addressing the pressing challenges of climate change and inequality. ‎Stopping development on "Greenfield" land (undeveloped land) is a key strategy for conservation, as it protects natural habitats and biodiversity, reducing sprawl and preserving ecosystems, contrasting with "Brownfield" development (redeveloping existing sites) which is often favoured for sustainability by reusing infrastructure and avoiding new land consumption, though greenfield projects can be designed sustainably from scratch, making sustainable land use and prioritising brownfield redevelopment crucial for balancing growth with environmental protection. 

The reasons why Greenfield development is a concern are plenty. For example, building on undeveloped land destroys ecosystems, leading to biodiversity loss and the displacement of species; sprawling development often requires more driving, increasing greenhouse gas emissions, and consuming pristine land uses up valuable natural resources, hindering goals for sustainable living. However, there are sustainable alternatives like ‎Brownfield redevelopment, as reusing old industrial or derelict sites (brownfields) revitalises areas without encroaching on natural land, a core principle of sustainable development; focusing development in existing urban areas, using public transport, and incorporating green spaces within developments. However, when Greenfield development is unavoidable, employing green building practices, renewable energy, and efficient design to minimise impact. The overarching aim is sustainable development—meeting present needs without compromising future generations, balancing economic growth with environmental integrity.

‎            Key points of this sustainable transition include fostering competitive and diverse economies, supporting innovation, and creating quality jobs. This involves investing in infrastructure, logistics, and digital connectivity to enhance efficiency and attract investment. Implementing green infrastructure, improving waste management and sanitation systems, and ensuring sustainable water and energy use. Strategies focus on mitigating climate risks, such as flooding and heat waves, and enhancing biodiversity. ‎Adopting these principles is crucial for India to manage its urban future effectively, ensuring cities are liveable, prosperous, and sustainable for generations to come. Experts universally agree that sustainable urban development is a necessity, not merely an option, for ensuring an economically sound, socially responsible, and environmentally sustainable future. Cities are major contributors to climate change, consuming over two-thirds of the world's energy and generating more than 70% of global CO2 emissions. Given that cities account for a large majority of global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, the way they are planned and managed is critical to addressing climate change and improving the quality of life for a rapidly urbanising global population. 

Now, why must we prioritise sustainability? It is because over half of India's population will live in cities by 2030, adding millions to urban centres, straining resources. Huge gaps in water, sanitation, transport, and housing, with significant investment (trillions needed) with thus be required. Extreme pollution (air/water) impacting health, alongside climate change effects, will demand nature-based solutions. Growing disparities in access to basic services, housing, and livelihoods highlight the need for inclusive planning. Key solutions include a shift from piecemeal to holistic, polycentric urban development, linking satellite towns with core cities; embedding wetlands, green corridors, and permeable surfaces into master plans for climate resilience and drainage; promoting transit-oriented development to encourage compact, walkable cities and efficient public transport; empowering urban local bodies with better funding (property tax reform, land value capture); mandating resilience benchmarks in engineering for floods, heatwaves, and water sensitivity; addressing affordable housing gaps and ensuring basic amenities reach all residents, including slum dwellers, as well as leverage smart city tech and explore innovative financing like green bonds. ‎In essence, India needs to transition from a growth-at-any-cost model to building cities that are economically productive, environmentally resilient, and socially inclusive for all citizens.