Description: Urban resilience refers to the capacity of urban areas to absorb and recover from shocks and stresses, such as climate change and natural disasters. This concept involves not only resistance to adverse events but also the adaptation and transformation of cities to face future challenges. Urban resilience is based on the integration of sustainable technologies, smart urban planning, and active community participation. Resilient cities are those that implement green infrastructures, efficient resource management systems, and inclusive policies that promote social cohesion. Resilience focuses not only on physical infrastructure but also on the economic and social health of its inhabitants, promoting a holistic approach that considers the well-being of the population. In an increasingly urbanized world, urban resilience becomes imperative to ensure sustainability and quality of life in the cities of the future.
History: The concept of urban resilience began to gain attention in the 1990s, especially after natural disasters such as Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which highlighted the vulnerability of cities. Since then, various initiatives and frameworks have been developed, such as the ‘Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction’ of 2015, which promotes resilience in urban communities. In 2016, the New Urban Agenda of the UN also emphasized the importance of building resilient cities in the face of climate change and other challenges.
Uses: Urban resilience is used in the planning and design of cities to mitigate the effects of natural disasters, improve infrastructure, and promote sustainability. It is applied in the creation of public spaces that absorb rainwater, in the implementation of renewable energy systems, and in the promotion of sustainable mobility. Additionally, it is utilized in risk management policies and community education to prepare citizens for emergencies.
Examples: Examples of urban resilience include the city of Rotterdam, which has implemented a rainwater management system that uses green spaces to reduce flooding. Another case is Copenhagen, which has developed a climate adaptation plan that includes the creation of parks and water retention areas. In Latin America, Medellín has transformed its vulnerable neighborhoods through the integration of efficient public transport and safe public spaces.
