IHOPE

To ensure the human future, it is of utmost importance that the conditions, ideas, and practices that nurture both the planet and our species be implemented. Of particular concern are today’s cities, many of which are not sited or planned for long-term sustainability. IHOPE asserts that the laboratory of the past is where sustainable urban forms can be identified and their characteristics evaluated for future use. We propose to demonstrate how insights from the study of ancient urban systems can add to composite pools of knowledge that integrate with 21st century technological and other knowledge of how to reduce future risk and vulnerability. This Foundation will explore how long-lasting cities of the past remained sustainable, even in the face of environmental change. The team will examine how their form, metabolism, governance, and environmental management—especially in regards the wider support system—have ensured sustainability, and how unearthing data on ancient urban systems can bring fresh ideas to the human future.