Editorial Introduction

Urban-Rural Regeneration and Cultural Sustainability

Abstract

In the current rapid urbanization view of most countries in the world, it is important to pay attention to legislation and policy development, the improvement of adequate infrastructure and basic services, urban planning and design. This will create an inclusive, tough, prosperous economic environment and maximize the benefits of agglomeration. Sustainable urban rural development remains one of the most pressing global challenges of the twenty-first century. Central and local governments and their partners should pay greater attention to one another and work together to build on a more harmonious, fair, inclusive and environmentally sustainable planned environment at the urban-rural scale. According to the UN-HABITAT Global Activity Report 2015, the world has experienced rapid urbanization. In 2008, the urban population exceeded the rural population. By 2050, it is expected that two thirds of the world's population will live in urban areas. With more than half of humanity living in cities, it is estimated that urban areas account for 70% of the world's gross domestic product and therefore have led to economic growth and prosperity (UN-HABITAT, 2015).