Cities in the Shadow of Pandemic and Climate Crisis. New quality of space and reality

The authors of this monograph delve into an analysis of the impacts and consequences of diverse crises on cities, exploring the responses and adaptive mechanisms crucial for navigating challenges and fostering development, even in crisis conditions. The publication specifically addresses such issues as the spatial ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g. effects on urban spatial policies, the informational layer of cities, resident behaviour, and the informal labour market), cities’ strategies in addressing the climate crisis (e.g. urban agriculture, the creation of green urban spaces), contemporary concepts of city development aimed at enhancing the quality of life (e.g. functional mix, walkable city, New Urbanism), and crises from a regional perspective (e.g. flood threats). The authors present diverse viewpoints and employ various research methods, exploring cities in Europe and the Americas to highlight both differences and universal challenges.

This monograph is the culmination of extensive collaboration among scholars from the University of Warsaw and universities in Latin America, including Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Universidad Mexiquense del Bicentenario, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León in Mexico, and Universidad de los Llanos in Colombia. Some articles were co-authored by teams comprising researchers from both Poland and Latin America.

Keywords: cities, COVID-19 pandemic, climate changes, urban spaces, urban greenery

The monograph introduces an innovative perspective on urban issues within the context of Polish geographical literature, focusing on both Polish and Latin American cities. A notable strength lies in the methodological aspect [and] the balanced proportion between a thorough analysis of the examined problems and the presentation of practical solutions. The monograph is poised to capture the interest of a diverse readership, including geographers, researchers from various disciplines in social sciences and related fields, doctoral students, as well as individuals intrigued by contemporary urban development issues.
from the review by Wioletta Kałamucka

Many studies [featured in this monograph] stand out for their exploration and testing of unique methodological proposals, encompassing variables, indicators, and data. The evolutionary approach taken towards the examined issues is particularly intriguing. Numerous phenomena studied within urban issues are intricately linked to their current developmental paths. Altering these paths necessitates robust external stimuli, such as the introduction of tourism into traditional agricultural or rural communities. However, this is not always beneficial for the traditional life of local communities, despite stimulating economic development. This could potentially be a valuable avenue for future research initiatives.
from the review by Andrzej Matczak