"I believe Peter Calthorpe to be the pre-eminent urban planner of our time. Herein is the first unobstructed view of a realistic, non-utopian urban society that can systemically address climate, economics, quality of life and the coming transition. The thesis of the book needs to be understood by all: the greatest and most innovative source of renewable energy rests within urban design, not solar panels or wind turbines. Peter's resonant vision creates a straight path to a workable, humane future."—Paul Hawken, author of Blessed Unrest
"Peter Calthorpe provides a distinctive framework in which effective design can channel future development to grow a dynamic, healthy, and low-carbon society. Yet again, Peter adds a critical dimension for moving us forward intelligently."—Edward Mazria, founder of Architecture 2050
"This insightful book represents an important platform for thought and design as we intentionally seek to be less destructive as a species and we begin to dream what it might be like to go forward in a way that honors the place of humans in the larger natural world."—William McDonough, McDonough & Partners, author of Cradle to Cradle
"Calthorpe points out that urbanism is often left off the list of climate solutions, but in order to confront global warming, we have to look beyond clean tech and examine where we live and how we design our communities. This book offers a blueprint for transforming our cities and towns into low-carbon centers of vibrant public life."—Frances Beinecke, president, Natural Resources Defense Council
"Calthorpe offers a double win. Making cities better for the atmosphere and climate also makes them more enjoyable and productive for humans to live in. The ideas have been proved; now they need to be applied at a climate-stabilizing scale."—Stewart Brand, author of Whole Earth Discipline
Introduction
Chapter 1:
Urbanism and Climate Change
Chapter 2:
The Fifty Year Experiment
Chapter 3:
Toward a Green Urban Future
Chapter 4:
Design for Urbanism
Chapter 5:
The Urban Footprint
Chapter 6:
The Urban Network
Chapter 7:
The California Experiment
Chapter 8:
Four American Futures
Chapter 9:
A Sustainable Future
