Issue 16: Health and Well-Being

All Roads Lead to Health

There is a growing awareness among city dwellers about the impact of urban life on their health and well-being, from air pollution and mental stress to lower immunity to diseases.

But can urban life be good for health? How do we create cities that promote good health and well-being for citizens?

In talking to experts and exploring examples from cities across the world, this is what we have learned:

Interventions, both small and large, can have an impact.

We take it for granted but basic public sanitation is critical for the health and well-being of city residents, says Jack Sim, founder of the World Toilet Organization. On the other hand, beyond providing basic health facilities, public health advocate Liak Teng Lit believes in creating health-promoting environments that prevent people from falling ill in the first place. How can this be achieved? Researchers Elly Chiu and Denise Tan explore how cities can redesign their urban environments to promote healthy behaviours through place-based and human-centred approaches, from creating superilles neighbourhoods in Barcelona to nudging elevator users towards staircases in Los Angeles. Public transport expert Lucy Saunders outlines how cities can develop healthy streets that are inviting, pedestrian-friendly and accessible via public transport.

A city that plays well stays healthy.

We were inspired by examples of how sports could lead to better health for citizens. Kazan clinched a Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize Special Mention in 2018 when it overcame a history of violence and poor public health by promoting sports and healthy living through good urban planning, community engagement and urban design. Toyama reinvented itself as a compact city for healthy seniors, while Vancouver leads the way in promoting active living and cycling. Singapore is looking to enhance the growth and health of young children through play in nature, as well as in ensuring easy access to sports and recreation facilities for communities.

Most of all, a healthy city is prepared for future disruptions.

In addition to creating conditions that promote good health and well-being, cities also have to deal with issues such as ageing populations and climate change. Cities would need to learn to be smart—to incorporate new technology and leverage data to enhance their ability to adapt to these coming disruptions. Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Masagos Zulkifli shares Singapore’s approach to fostering a liveable environment in light of coming climaterelated challenges, whereas Dr Hiroo Ichikawa, Professor Emeritus of Meiji University, discusses possible technological solutions to address Tokyo’s ageing population and shrinking workforce.

We hope this issue inspires city leaders and citizens to work together to create healthy and liveable cities. I wish you all an enjoyable read.

Khoo Teng Chye
Executive Director
Centre for Liveable Cities