The Colombo Port Expansion Project: Can a rising tide lift all boats?

This case urges the reader to consider the links between the competing priorities of sustainable development, infrastructure, and globalization using the Colombo Port Expansion Project (CPEP) as an example.

Conflict Management using Public Participation GIS (PPGIS): Locating Undesirable Public Facilities in South Korea

This case study will help students to learn comparative analytic perspectives and conflict management using an innovative approach. It helps students understand the use of the Public Participation Geographic Information System (PPGIS) method as a scientific and systematic tool for participatory governance to reduce conflict in allocating undesirable facilities.

The Regional Environmental Center: A Case Study in Regional Solutions to Cross-Boundary Water Issues

The case is designed to highlight the role of the REC in addressing cross-boundary water issues in two specific projects and to discuss the reasons why the organization has taken the role of intermediary and secretariat, as opposed to taking on more of an action-oriented role. The most important lesson the readers should glean from

The Curitiba Solution?

This case explores the Brazilian city of Curitiba in its pursuit of sustainability through urban planning and development, referencing flood management control, recycling programs, and bus rapid transit specifically.

Public Transit in Abidjan: SOTRA’s Post-Conflict Crisis

This case explores the incentives guiding a P3 transit company in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire after the government (its primary stakeholders) collapses. As a main tool for post-conflict recovery, the company attempts to address growing needs around public transit as well as its own financial setbacks. 

The Yellow Dragon and the Great Green Wall: Combating Desertification in Northern China

This case looks at sustainability and suitability of large-scale ‘green’ tree planting efforts in combating desertification, sandstorms, and air quality issues in urban China. Case focuses on progress in Zhangbei County to examine local implementation of national environmental projects.  

"Making Work Pay" for Seattle Public Housing Residents: Jobs Plus and the Challenge of Serving Diverse Populations

This case offers students the opportunity to practice defining the unique needs of a diverse population, and translating this definition into effective program design and service delivery.

The Singapore Smart Strategy – Deploying Smart Grids through Intelligent Energy Systems (IES)

This case focuses on the Singaporean government’s strategy for implementing smart grid technology as a means to further empower its energy dependent modern economy. The Intelligent Energy System (IES), a Singaporean government led smart grid pilot project, can be seen as a part of a long term urban development plan to: invest in critical energy

Finding a Viable Solution to Haiti’s Energy Crisis

This case examines the development challenges facing Haiti’s energy industry in the wake of the 2010 earthquake.  A top policymaker considers environmental, social, and economic factors to determine whether liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports could solve the country’s electricity problems. 

Which Way Does the Wind Blow? Wind Power Investment and Development in Mexican Cross-Border Communities

This case study explores the various dimensions and challenges of developing Baja California state’s first wind farm and illustrates the energy dilemma faced by a region experiencing high electricity costs due to climate, detachment from the national grid, and an incompatible national energy regulatory structure. The case addresses multiple pillars of sustainability.