In 2008, for the first time in history, more than half of the world’s population, 3.3 billion people, will be living in urban areas. Urbanization—the increase in the urban share of total population—is inevitable, but it can also be positive. This Report looks beyond current problems. It examines the implications of impending urban growth and discusses what needs to be done, with specific attention to poverty reduction and sustainability. In 2008, for the first time in history, more than half of the world’s population, 3.3 billion people, will be living in urban areas. Urbanization—the increase in the urban share of total population—is inevitable, but it can also be positive. This Report looks beyond current problems. It examines the implications of impending urban growth and discusses what needs to be done, with specific attention to poverty reduction and sustainability.