Sustainable Technologies for Sustainable Cities

The UK-China Virtual Academy for Sustainable Cities initiative speaks to a range of issues relating to sustainable urban development, infrastructure, and utilities. Sustainable communities demand sustainable housing, utilities, and transportation but for manufacturing -focused economies the evolution of sustainable products and processes is also a fundamental requirement. This paper considers that evolution and examines the role of higher education in delivering change short term impact in terms of environmental footprint but also longer term economic impact - the creation of new economic opportunities around sustainable 21st century issues. Technology migration between east and west addresses the global challenges of climate change and dwindling natural resources. However, western models for technology development and implementation need to be rendered useful in a Chinese context. Existing success in supporting manufacturing and process industries in reducing energy demand and environmental impact provides an interesting model for translational research that links the UK with South and East Asia via our Sustainability in Global Manufacturing Network. The paper considers examples that illustrate how multi-disciplinary research and knowledge transfer is delivering environmental, economic, and social benefits to host communities. The Virtual Academy/Sustainable Cities Collaboration breaks down traditional discipline barriers to tackle global problems in a holistic and determined manner.