The Biocultural City as a Utopia or the Future Reality? : Models, Policies, and the City of Ixelles

In an era marked by global uncertainties and pressing challenges, this scholarly monograph offers insights into the future of European cities based on over a decade of research. Today, halfway through implementing the United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, pressing issues such as climate change, pandemics, economic upheavals, increased inequities, conflicts, and technological leaps require innovative responses that embrace all fields of society. Addressing these challenges, the authors advocate for innovative solutions that embrace the pivotal roles of culture and ecology. Drawing from extensive studies centered on the city of Ixelles, Belgium, this book examines the transformative power of integrating biocultural goals into public policies. Through adopting a biocultural approach, Ixelles has achieved sustainable development objectives and addressed critical topics such as gender equality, multiculturalism, and societal change. Discussing diverse models and policies to enhance community regeneration and global connectivity, the book emphasizes the imperative of collective action for the betterment of all and the planet. It will appeal to students, scholars, and policy-makers interested in a better understanding of biocultural approaches, sustainability, and policy solutions for the pressing issues of our time.