We should have the right to shape the city that shapes us. The built environment affects people’s senses of place and well-being. Building neighbourhoods with natural features through collaborative placemaking boost people’s sense of belonging and multifaceted well-being – quintessential qualities for sustainable cities and communities.

Professor of the Department of Geography and Resources Management and Associate Director of the Institute of Future Cities at CUHK, Mee Kam keeps close tabs on sustainable development of cities, as well as people’s multifaceted well-being.

You can compare life to a mountain. After you’re born, you move uphill. When you’re around 30 years of age, you reach the peak. After that, you head downhill. Your brain function declines and your physical strength deteriorates.