Ecological environment competitiveness in emerging economies: a case of urban India

Cities can contribute to the mitigation of some of the world economy’s principle problems relative to degradation of the environment through imposition of the circular economy model, in the analysis of Singhal. The traditional method of resource use involved extraction, making a product and then disposing of the waste, and, often, ultimately the product itself – referred to as “take, make, dispose†. The result is inefficient resource utilization and production that leads to environmental degradation. Cities can participate in the creation of an economy that results in a more sustainable utilization of resources through energy management in all buildings, more effective waste management and recycling, more energy efficient approaches to design and construction of buildings, facilities, and transportation equipment and systems. The circular economy is clearly needed as we enter the 21st century in which resource availability and the need to integrate all members of society in consumption of the products that are created with it. Solar and wind power and other renewable energy sources have been the first step in this effort. We how speak of smart cities, robotics and artificial intelligence as components in the creation of the economy that the world needs and cities have a central role to play in its development.