D-8 chief: Rapid urbanization pressures energy, infrastructure

Rapid urbanization around the world is increasing pressure on housing systems, transport infrastructure, water security, utilities, waste management, food systems and energy demand.

Report informs that D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation Secretary-General Sohail Mahmood said this at the High-Level Energy and Urban Dialogue held as part of the World Urban Forum (WUF13).

According to him, the D-8 represents a demographic strength of 1.28 billion people and a combined GDP of more than $5 trillion: "D-8 members have mostly young populations, are located in strategic geographical positions, have growing industrial and technological potential, and possess major renewable energy resources, including solar, hydro, wind and geothermal energy, as well as green hydrogen."

He added that rapid urbanization is increasing pressure on housing systems, transport infrastructure, water security, utilities, waste management, food systems and energy demand: "Rapid urban growth also goes hand in hand with increased climate vulnerability. According to the World Bank, developing countries will need trillions of dollars in investments in resilient urban infrastructure by 2030 to achieve their climate and development goals."

Mahmood said about 56% of the world's population currently lives in urban areas: "This figure is projected to reach about 70% by 2050. According to estimates by the International Energy Agency, global electricity demand driven by urban infrastructure, cooling systems, transport and digital services will increase by more than 75% by 2050, especially in developing countries."