Climate-Proofing Cities: Adapt, Innovate, Thrive
Christopher Marquis
Professor at Cambridge. Author of “THE PROFITEERS: How Business Privatizes Profit and Socializes Cost”; "MAO AND MARKETS” (a FT Best Book of 2022); "BETTER BUSINESS: How the B Corp Movement is Remaking Capitalism"
This week’s edition of Regenerative Insights centers on regenerative urban design—an approach that reimagines cities as thriving ecosystems, balancing human needs with environmental sustainability. From innovative transportation models to resilient infrastructure and nature-based solutions, the stories highlight how urban spaces can transform into sustainable and equitable environments for all. Leading the discussion is Brompton Bicycles’ initiative, Brompton Renewed, which integrates circular economy principles into urban mobility.
In our Essential Reads, we explore new ideas in urban design, including sustainable city frameworks, climate-resilient infrastructure, and the integration of Indigenous wisdom into urban planning. These cases reveal how holistic approaches are key to crafting cities that support both ecological balance and human well-being.
Our Research Corner dives into the potential of peri-urban areas as laboratories for innovation, showcasing how transitional spaces can drive systemic sustainability transformations. This perspective bridges traditional urban design with forward-looking, regenerative practices.
Announcing a new 3 day executive education program on Leading Regenerative Business at the Cambridge Judge Business School led by Christopher Marquis, click below for more information or feel free to message me directly with any questions!
Let’s dive into the strategies and ideas shaping the cities of tomorrow!
Featured Article:
My recent Forbes article on Brompton Bicycles, known for their iconic folding bikes, is about how the company not only promotes circular economy practices but also makes sustainable urban commuting more accessible. Their new program Brompton Renewed offers refurbished bikes at discounts of up to 20%, providing an affordable entry point for environmentally-conscious riders while promoting circular economy principles. The initiative ensures all bikes meet Brompton's rigorous quality standards, complete with a seven-year frame warranty, making each ride not only eco-friendly but dependable.
The company’s North American President Juliet Scott-Croxford highlights the dual benefits of waste reduction and enhanced accessibility for cycling enthusiasts. By giving bikes a second life, Brompton addresses the global waste crisis within the bicycle industry while fostering a deeper connection with customers. This approach aligns with the brand’s broader mission to enhance urban mobility and sustainability.
Through Brompton Renewed, the company not only reduces waste but also inspires consumers to rethink ownership and embrace products with lasting value.
Essential Reads:
Scaling Climate-Resilient Surfaces
The Smart Surfaces Coalition launched a peer learning network to aid U.S. cities in adopting "smart surfaces" like cool pavements, green roofs, porous materials, and solar panels. Participants gain exclusive access to resources, funding, and policy tools, helping cities combat urban heat islands and flooding through innovative infrastructure.
Designing Sustainable Cities
Imperial College London alumni gathered to explore how cities can address climate challenges while prioritizing health and sustainability. Discussions highlighted urban ecosystem design, behavioral change, policy integration, and community involvement. Alumni startups showcased innovative solutions like energy harnessing turbines, real-time health monitoring, and pollutant extraction technology to enhance urban resilience.
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Beyond Infrastructure for Flood Control
Cagayan de Oro, Philippines, battles worsening floods with costly dikes and flood walls but faces criticism for mangrove and vegetation loss. Experts advocate integrating nature-based solutions, such as watershed restoration and mangrove replanting, to complement infrastructure and build long-term resilience against climate change impacts.
Indigenous Wisdom and Regeneration
Keynotes at the recent Sustainable Brands conference in San Diego highlighted the integration of Indigenous knowledge, complexity theory, and regenerative approaches to create a future-proof economy. Indigenous communities, protecting 80% of global biodiversity, emerged as pivotal allies in conservation. Systems thinking and regenerative technologies were underscored as transformative solutions.
Climate Resilience Framework
The Neighbourhood Futures framework outlines five capacities to tackle climate resilience and health equity in urban areas. This framework addresses vulnerabilities and fosters adaptive, transformative urban strategies against climate extremes, offering cross-disciplinary tools for systemic community resilience.
Urban Climate Resilience
A new Economist Impact report reveals significant gaps in urban preparedness for climate change in 10 major cities. The report highlights resident concerns, key strategies, and case studies to improve resilience, emphasizing public-private collaboration, adaptive planning, and innovative infrastructure solutions.
Urban Transformation in Adelaide
The Thriving Suburbs program invests $34 million into nine South Australian projects to improve community infrastructure. Initiatives include revitalizing the Noarlunga Aquatic Centre and creating vibrant recreational spaces, fostering social cohesion and improving suburban livability across Adelaide.
Research Corner:
Transformative Innovation in Peri-Urban Asia Marshall and Dolley's insightful study in Research Policy delves into peri-urbanization in India and China, emphasizing its dual nature as a challenge and opportunity for sustainable development. The research highlights how rapid urbanization disrupts socio-technical and social-ecological systems, creating complex governance issues while offering unique contexts for transformative innovation. Key opportunities lie in renegotiating governance, reframing sustainability debates, and leveraging peri-urban dynamics for systemic change.
Quick Takeaways:
Executive Director at Harvard Business School | Human Sustainability | Case Studies | Franco-German born in Mexico, raised in Africa, Europe & the US
2dIsabelle Valentine Fagan