Toward Sustainable Communities in Arid and Semi-Arid Zones of the Global South

Human beings rely on environment modification for the proper satisfaction of needs such as shelter building, food and tool production, water supply, sanitization, and recreation. Environmental changes brought about by human societies have reached a breakthrough point known as Anthropocene, one of the characteristics of which is urbanization. Given that from 2007 most world population is concentrated in urban settlements, decisions taken by authorities, organizations, and citizens in general concerning the urban spaces can constitute a driving force toward sustainability. Construction of sustainable spaces is more urgent in arid and semi-arid zones of the world, which cover around 41% of the world’s land surface, are inhabited by 38% of the global population, and are considered among the most vulnerable regions to climate change. This book aims to highlight opportunities and acquired experiences in applying urban planning strategies, eco-building practices, and low-impact and passive technologies, to the sustainable management of urban spaces in arid and semi-arid regions of Mexico.