From food to tech, coronavirus to spur urban planning rethink

(Eco Business, 20 Mar 2020) Covid-19 could prompt new approach to urban design in Asia-Pacific region, home to some of the world’s most densely populated cities

The coronavirus pandemic sweeping across the planet will force city authorities and planners to more seriously consider factors such as population density, technology, food security and inadequate housing, urban experts said.

As of Wednesday morning the outbreak, termed Covid-19, had infected about 200,000 people worldwide and killed roughly 8,000, according to a global tally kept by Johns Hopkins University.

In response, countries have tightened border controls, imposed travel bans, locked down cities and stepped up surveillance using technology powered by artificial intelligence (AI).

“It is likely that Covid-19 will prompt a rethink of urban design and planning in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Tony Matthews, a senior lecturer in urban and environmental planning at Australia’s Griffith University.

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Eco Business, 20 Mar 2020: From food to tech, coronavirus to spur urban planning rethink