Sustainable Societies

Human Settlements

The term human settlement refers to the physical and living environments of individuals and families which lead to the formation of communities, villages, towns and cities. These settlements are supported by networks of infrastructure, water supply, sanitation and transportation. Their inhabitants derive their livelihoods from activities such as agricultural production, pastoral farming, home-based enterprises, business and industry, health and family care facilities, the provision of services, and the organization and management of the communities through different levels of civic actions and governance.

Health, relative safety, access to education at all levels, decent housing and livelihoods of the people are basic elements and issues in the sustainability of human settlements.