World Town Planning Day has been celebrated every year since 1949 on 8 November. The day commemorates the importance of city planning and design, reminding us that the discipline plays a crucial role in creating sustainable and liveable urban environments. At a time when urbanisation continues to advance at a dizzying pace, reflecting on urbanism is a very relevant factor.
On 8 November
Commemorates World Town Planning Day, a date that invites us to reflect on the development of our cities and the planning of urban spaces. This date promotes awareness of creating sustainable environments.
Its origins date back to the last century, when the engineer Carlos María della Paolera, a pioneer in the field and former director of the Institute of Urbanism of Buenos Aires, proposed in 1949 to establish this day as World Town Planning Day. His legacy lives on as a milestone in the history of urban planning in Argentina.
One of Carlos María della Paolera’s most outstanding contributions was the creation of the symbol of urbanism, which has become a globally recognised emblem. This design features a golden sun radiating on a blue and green background.
The importance of urbanism
Urban planning is a discipline that encompasses the planning, design and management of urban areas. It aims to improve the quality of life of citizens by promoting access to essential services, resource efficiency and environmental sustainability. It is essential to address the challenges that arise as more people move to cities, such as traffic congestion, lack of affordable housing and environmental degradation.
Sustainable cities: the 21st century approach
Today, the concept of sustainability has become a fundamental pillar of urban planning. Sustainable cities strive to balance the needs of current generations without compromising those of future generations. This involves promoting efficient public transport systems, creating green spaces, managing natural resources responsibly and promoting diversity and inclusion.
Urban population growth, climate change and rapid urbanisation are significant challenges facing urban planners today. It is therefore crucial to prioritise the design and planning of resilient and sustainable cities to address these issues. Cities must adopt climate change adaptation strategies and reduce their carbon footprint.
At Renta Corporación we are constantly changing to adapt to the needs of the population. World Town Planning Day gives us the opportunity to reflect on the key role that town planning plays in creating sustainable and liveable cities. As cities continue to grow, it is essential that we continue to innovate and adapt to address the challenges ahead.