Evolving Cities—Towards Healthy Future Case Study Sarajevo

Cities are in constant change. Historically, cities have been the foundation of human civilization, and they have lived in a strong symbiosis with nature, climate, culture, politics, economy, and various global and local challenges. All of these factors are responsible for their growth or their decline. Throughout history, cities have developed in times of accelerated growth and industrialization but also suffered through times of decadence and crises of all sorts. These changes sometimes happen periodically, sometimes gradually, but mostly, this timeframe is uneven and unpredictable. We can find causes of change in different issues, from demographic trends, economic circumstances, spatial planning decisions, and many others. Today, with economy-driven progress, cities are facing negative environmental factors and pollution. This paper will analyse the evolution of cities, today’s need for sustainable and resilient development and growth, and their positive role in urban systems. The example of Sarajevo, with various development leaps related to the population, environment, technology, and social organization, will be analysed. In this case study, we will discuss possible development strategies with a focus on the future, which may produce positive outcomes that would allow the city of Sarajevo to achieve environmental sustainability.