Sky-high rents, dearth of affordable housing, demographic change, social inequalities and the energy revolution are just a few of the challenges the Ruhr region is currently facing. A great many places across the globe are running up against the same problems with some variation from country to country and region to region.

The social, cultural and economic activities of a metropolitan area have an impact on its residential development. Conversely, the development of its population influences the identity and structure of a region. The “Agglomeration Ruhr” is a representative example of the continuous land grab by human beings all over the world.

How can industrial, agricultural and residential development be adapted to meet requirements, and how can unused space be effectively utilised? How can the burden on infrastructure be eased? What ways are there to reduce noise and air pollution? This book contains articles by experts, case studies, statistics and charts: It thus provides strategies and possible solutions to questions relating to future-oriented development not only of the economy and energy supply but also of housing, infrastructure, schooling and educational institutions.