Sustainable Urban Development Strategies for Climate Change Mitigation in Developing Countries

Rapid urbanization in developing countries presents both unprecedented challenges and opportunities for climate change mitigation. With urban populations projected to reach 6.7 billion by 2050, developing nations face the dual challenge of accommodating growing urban populations while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This comprehensive review examines sustainable urban development strategies specifically tailored for developing country contexts, analyzing policy frameworks, technological solutions, and implementation mechanisms. The research synthesizes evidence from multiple case studies across Asia, Africa, and Latin America to identify effective mitigation strategies. Key findings indicate that integrated approaches combining compact urban design, green infrastructure, sustainable transportation systems, and renewable energy integration can reduce urban carbon emissions by 40-60% while improving quality of life. However, implementation faces significant barriers including limited financial resources, weak institutional capacity, and rapid informal settlement growth. The study recommends multi-stakeholder partnerships, innovative financing mechanisms, and context-specific adaptation of global best practices to achieve sustainable urban development goals in developing countries.