ARCS 10.0

The multi-disciplinary ARCS 10.0 – NAGAR Conference invites scholars, professionals, students, and civic actors to engage in critical reflection and share empirical insights on how cities, especially in the Global South, can transition toward inclusive, climate-resilient, and sustainable urban futures. In alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Paris Agreement, and the Sendai Framework, the conference seeks to examine how governance, policy, planning, and management can shape more adaptive and equitable urban systems.

We invite papers, case studies, project reports, and working paper submissions that explore real-world initiatives, research, and experiences related to urban and regional sustainability. Contributors from all disciplines and practice areas are encouraged to participate and share their work. Submissions should reflect original contributions and clearly indicate their intended track(s) during registration.

1. SDGs, governance, and policy: Institutions, participation, and evidence-based frameworks

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) offer a shared global vision for tackling some of the most urgent and complex environmental, social, and economic challenges facing humanity. But translating this vision into meaningful action requires more than just long-term planning. It depends on strong and inclusive governance, well-designed policies grounded in evidence, and institutions that are both accountable and adaptable. This conference theme invites participants to examine how national and local governance systems can work in concert with policy innovation and multi-stakeholder collaboration to advance the SDGs. By fostering dialogue on coherent policy frameworks, participatory decision-making, and institutional resilience, the theme seeks to uncover pathways for accelerating equitable and sustainable development. It calls on practitioners, researchers, and policymakers to reflect on what it takes to create governance systems that not only deliver on global goals but also empower communities and build lasting capacity for change. The sub-themes include:

• Evidence-based policymaking
• Multi-Level governance and institutional coordination
• Participatory governance and civic engagement
• Financing and regulatory mechanisms for the SDGs

2. Urban economy and livelihoods: Circular economy, inclusive growth, and resilient livelihoods

As cities continue to grow and reshape the global landscape, they are increasingly recognized as vital hubs of economic activity, innovation, and opportunity. Yet, the speed and scale of urbanization often deepen existing inequalities and strain natural resources. This theme focuses on reimagining urban economies in ways that not only drive growth but also ensure that such growth is inclusive, resilient, and environmentally responsible. It explores how principles of the circular economy—such as resource efficiency, reuse, and regenerative systems—can be embedded into urban development to support both economic vibrancy and sustainability. This theme will engage in interdisciplinary dialogue around resilient livelihoods that can withstand economic and environmental shocks, particularly in the context of the Global South. The theme emphasizes the need to diversify income sources, support informal and creative economies, and design policy frameworks that prioritize equity and adaptability. By rethinking how urban systems value work, waste, and wellbeing, this track aims to uncover practical pathways toward economic models that empower communities while safeguarding the planet. The sub-themes are:

• Economic growth
• Circular Economy
• Inclusive and Resilient Livelihoods
• Local economic development and urban-rural linkages

3. Environmental extremes and adaptation strategies: Attaining resilience through sustainable approaches

Extreme weather events like heatwaves, floods, droughts, wildfires, and storms are becoming more frequent and intense, affecting our ecosystems, communities, health, and economies in serious ways. This conference brings together researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders to better understand these challenges and to share practical ways to adapt. It values approaches that combine scientific insights with local and traditional knowledge, recognizing that real resilience comes from communities working together. By encouraging open conversations across different fields and experiences, the conference hopes to inspire solutions that not only reduce risks but also help people and places become stronger and more prepared for whatever comes next.

• Natural hazards and society
• Nature-based solutions (NBS)
• Role of community in disaster risk reduction
• Adaptation and mitigation strategies
• Environment, Social and Governance (ESG)

4. Inclusive urban transformation: Placemaking, identity, and equity across age and gender

In an era marked by rapid urbanization and widening social inequalities, the concept of inclusive transformation calls for a fundamental rethinking of how cities are designed and governed to better reflect the diverse needs, identities, and aspirations of all residents. This theme critically examines how inclusive placemaking can help address disparities across dimensions such as gender, age, culture, and identity, fostering urban environments that are equitable, diverse, and resilient. It invites thoughtful dialogue on the role of urban design, participatory governance, and meaningful community engagement in shaping public spaces that promote a sense of belonging, safety, accessibility, and cultural expression for everyone. By centering inclusivity in urban transformation, this approach aims to build cities where all individuals can thrive and participate fully in civic life. The sub-themes are:

• Inclusive and resilient placemaking
• Gender-responsive planning and management
• Role of culture and identity
• Age-Sensitive planning and management
• Equity, belonging, and urban justice

5. Future of urban living: Trends in housing and real estate

The housing and real estate sector is undergoing rapid transformation driven by urbanization, technological innovation, demographic shifts, and evolving economic dynamics. This theme addresses the question of how these changes are reshaping the way we plan, finance, and govern living spaces. It invites dialogue on building inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities through innovative housing models, smart technologies, and equitable policy frameworks. As cities grow and diversify, the challenge lies in ensuring that housing is accessible, adaptable, and responsive to human needs. This theme encourages collaboration across disciplines to envision housing not just as infrastructure, but as a catalyst for social stability, dignity, and opportunity. The sub-themes are:

• Affordable Housing and Inclusive Development
• Smart and Sustainable Housing
• Real Estate Investment and Market Dynamics
• Land Use Planning and Management
• Land Markets, Property Rights, and Governance

6. Urban network services and infrastructure: Innovation, integration, and accessibility

As cities expand rapidly, the need for reliable, equitable, and resilient urban services like water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), transportation, and education becomes more pressing than ever. These essential services form the foundation of inclusive, healthy, and sustainable urban life. This theme seeks to foster interdisciplinary conversations on overcoming challenges and driving innovation in these sectors. It emphasizes developing policies and practices that improve accessibility, affordability, and quality, while addressing social disparities and equipping cities to meet future growth and environmental pressures. The sub-themes are:

• WASH
• Sustainable Urban Transportation
• Education Infrastructure and Accessibility
• Infrastructure finance

7. Digital solutions and AI-driven innovation: Smart application, E-governance, and ethical tech

Digital solutions and AI-driven innovations are rapidly transforming how cities are managed, offering new tools to tackle complex urban challenges with greater efficiency and insight. This theme explores the potential of technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and smart sensors to enhance urban governance, service delivery, and resilience. The theme will explore how these innovations can promote inclusive, transparent, and adaptive urban systems, while addressing ethical considerations and digital divides. By integrating technology with community needs, cities can become more responsive, equitable, and prepared for the future. The sub-themes are:

• Smart Technologies and AI for urban solutions
• Digital governance in decision making
• Role of AI and digital infrastructure in urban management
• Ethical challenges in the implementation of AI