Smart Growth

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the city and its urban planning developed in tandem with industrialisation, facilitating the economic growth of this sector and without contemplating the needs of society and the natural environment.

In 1933, the first Athens Charter was published, which set out the guidelines for the correct planning of the functional city in order to offset the consequences of industrialisation. Along with other principles, the strategy was zoning by use, which generated neighbourhoods with different functions (such as leisure, work or mobility) and diverse densities.

Town planning architects, such as LeCorbusier or Tony Garnier, proposed other urban planning models in order to address the aftermath of industrialisation. Up until the 21st century, industrial cities progressively changed their frontage and improved the quality of life of the residents.

New challenges have emerged in the 21st century for the planners: the notable increase in the city's population, along with the ensuing environmental impacts. New concepts, such as Smart Growth have therefore begun to be used. Moreover, the New Athens Charter was updated in 2003 to adapt to those challenges.