Vulnerable Cities

Waking up to the need for urban disaster risk management. Read More

12 Things to Know in 2012: Urbanization in Asia

Asia is moving into an era of unprecedented urbanization, a change bringing prosperity and problems. Here are 12 facts and figures about the rise of the city. Read More

Pasig River Forum to Revitalize River Cleanup

Stakeholders of the Pasig River will meet on 24 April in Manila, Philippines to ensure a common view of plans and progress on river cleanup. The forum, organized by ADB and the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission, will focus on implementing actions and leveraging off experiences of other cities and countries. Read More

12 Things to Know in 2012: Waste Management

The rapid urbanization of Asia and the Pacific also bring with it rising consumption patterns and waste quantities. Here are 12 facts about pressing waste management issues facing the region and the world. Read More

Overview

Cities generate over 80% of gross domestic product (GDP) in many countries of the Asia and the Pacific and are engines of economic growth that have lifted millions from poverty, but as they swell in size and number they are under increasing strain. Maintaining vital economic growth, while creating sustainable liveable cities for all is the biggest urban challenge facing Asia.

Since the 1960s, ADB has been assisting its developing member countries (DMCs) meet this challenge with about $15 billion in funding for 200 urban development projects, which have improved urban transport, waste management, and access to clean water and sanitation.

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Fast Facts

44 million
people are added to city populations every year

75%
of the world's resources are consumed by cities

More than half
of the world’s slum dwellers live in Asia

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