Ana Duch T-Figueras

Cities are the engines of growth for most national economies. As centers of production, innovation, creativity, trade and connectivity, urban areas are taking a leading role in stimulating global economic growth and competitiveness, resulting in higher incomes per capita and higher productivity. However, cities can also be places where some of the most important challenges of the 21st century, such as inequality, unemployment, segregation and poverty, are concentrated and exacerbated. How can cities balance the economic advantages they have and the associated challenges brought by rapid urbanization and economic growth? What is the role of local governments in achieving and ensuring sustainable economic growth and facilitating job creation? Can cities foster economic development? This volume is part of a book series called "IESE Cities in Motion: International Urban Best Practices." Cities and the Economy focuses on how cities can address these challenges in order to achieve sustainable economic growth, and assess the role of city governments and firms in promoting and ensuring local economic development. The book aims to be: - an insightful analysis of the main urban economic trends and challenges- a collection of international best practices on sustainable urban economies and local economic development- a tool to help city managers and policymakers in their endeavors to develop and deploy policies and initiatives to achieve urban areas that are economically, socially and environmentally sustainable.

Mobility is a key dimension of cities. As urbanization accelerates, the demand for mobility and transportation escalates. This booming demand stresses the existing urban transportation systems and infrastructures, intensifies widespread congestion and traffic gridlock, increases road accidents, and augments CO2 emissions and air and noise pollution, which is starting to cause serious health concerns. How will our current transport systems cope with this rising demand for mobility in cities? How can city planners and mayors around the world come up with strategies and solutions that enhance sustainable and integrated urban transportation systems? What is the future of urban mobility? This volume is part of a book series called "IESE Cities in Motion: International urban best practices." Cities and Mobility & Transportation focuses on how to address the mobility challenge in cities. It aims to be: - an insightful analysis of the main urban mobility and transportation trends and challenges- a collection of international best practices on sustainable urban mobility- an instrument to help city managers and policymakers solve the urban mobility challenge and improve accessibility in cities for the benefit of all.