Green Thinking Review
Edition 76
The Flourishing City
Designed Like a Living System
A living-systems view of urbanism that asks cities to replace machine logic with care, connection and adaptability—and draws a practical lesson from Medellín’s transformation.
Original cover · lighter PDF availableWhy this edition matters
A question with consequences.
Fast-growing African cities need more than efficient infrastructure. Designing streets, transport, public space, ecology and civic life as connected systems can help urban places respond to inequality, climate stress and change without losing their humanity.
Inside GTR 76
A complete conversation, in one focused edition.
Cities as ecosystems
Seven flourishing moves cities can make in 2026
Actions for the first 90 days of 2026
Medellín: urban transformation as a living system
Cover story
The Flourishing City: Designed Like a Living Ecosystem
Cities tell stories about what we value.
Ideas become useful when they meet a real place, a real challenge and the people shaping what comes next.
GTR reflection · Shareable thought
“A flourishing city is not the most efficient machine; it is a living system that connects people, restores nature and learns to care.”— Green Thinking Review, Edition 76
How to cite
Reference this edition.
Green Thinking Review. “The Flourishing City: Designed Like a Living System.” GTR 76, 9 January 2026. https://www.greenthinking.sheltagroup.com/issues/flourishing-city
Permanent edition linkOriginal edition published by Green Thinking Review. Page summary and reading links are provided for discovery and accessibility.
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