signal · indexed from World Bank Documents & Reports

Handbook for Livable and Resilient Cities - Integrating Hazard and Risk Informationinto Urban Planning

World Bank

Published

04 Aug 2026

Coverage

INT

Rapid urbanization in cities worldwide has led to significant environmental, social, and economic challenges. These include heightened exposure to extreme weather and climate events, increased air and water pollution, rising poverty levels, shrinking green spaces, and greater risks to lives, livelihoods, and assets from natural hazards, disasters, and climate shocks. As these risks intensify, national and local governments must work together to improve urban livability and resilience through risk-informed urban planning. In this handbook, livable and resilient cities are defined as urban areas and their surroundings, where green urban growth, social inclusion, resilient built environments, and shared prosperity are promoted. The focus is on preventing and reducing the impacts of natural hazards and risks and the effects of climate change. In a livable and resilient city, planned and sustainable growth ensures people have access to healthy environments, affordable housing, basic services, jobs, and low-carbon transportation and economic opportunities.