UNESCO's "Urban Biosphere" to Open Headquarters in Shanghai

According to the online versions of China's EastDay and Shanghai daily, "Urban Biosphere" will open its headquarters in Shanghai within the next several months. "Urban Biosphere" is a UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization) forum for answering the many problems posed by urbanization. Among the many tasks within its charge, Urban Biosphere's first project will be to set up the UN's Environmental Protection exhibition at Shanghai's 2010 World Expo.

According to Kevin Tung of the China International Cultural Communication Center in Shanghai, only 3% of the world's population lived in cities in 1800. In these modern times that figure stands at and will soon exceed 50%. This figure is estimated to stretch beyond 65% within the following 30 years.

"Cities are facing a variety of problems associated with urbanization. Sharing experiences may help us find solutions faster," Tung said.

"Urban Biosphere" was founded as a UN program in 2008, and serves as a platform for global city-planning experts and scientists to share knowledge and to promote best practices in addressing global population problems with urban environs. Urban Biosphere is co-founded by UNESCO, Stockholm University and the Convention on Biological Diversity, as well as other organizations.