ABSTRACT
Urban systems encompass the flows of materials and energy associated with meeting demands for products and services within cities. The concept also includes aspects of the physical built and transport infrastructures in urban environments. This chapter explores possible pathways to low-carbon urban development by investigating the influences of urban form, approaches to energy efficiency, and the incorporation of renewable energy and waste to energy activities on urban energy and material flows. Within this exploration, factors that influenced the UK’s past energy transitions, recent trends, emerging policy drivers, technological opportunities and social preferences will be addressed.
