INTRODUCTION TO VOLUME 16, ISSUE 1 : 2018

Abstract

Our environment today is changing because of the rapid urbanization and this scenario has intensified as we face the climate change affect. The challenges and issues that we experience today are more complex, multifaceted and are becoming more visible and frequent. Cities are vulnerable and at the same time have to play significant roles in tackling climate change through various actions of preparedness, mitigation and adaptations. Cities are complex systems combining spatial and non-spatial elements. A system, which consists of interconnected and interdependent elements, can only function well if these elements interact with each other. These elements comprise physical environment, social, infrastructure and economy. The interaction among the elements enable the city to function as a whole. In this context, to achieve a sustainable and resilient city requires a collaborative effort from various disciplines and interrelated expertise to address each element. The increase on the awareness and interest in the related research areas have witness the upsurge on the efforts towards achieving sustainable and resilient cities. Every day new studies and findings emerged from scientists, researchers, academics and scholars deliberating on ways to mitigate, prevent and prepare for the future risks that may pose impact to our cities either physically, socially or economically.