Wanli Fang

When people think of Bhutan, they often picture pristine forests, quiet monasteries perched on cliffs, and the famous philosophy of Gross National Happiness. And it’s true—Bhutan is one of the greenest and most peaceful places on Earth. It’s also one of the few countries that absorbs more carbon than it emits. That alone makes Bhutan a global climate champion. But behind this beautiful picture is a country that’s confronting some tough challenges.

Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the Singapore Urban Week along with other colleagues from the World Bank Beijing office, as well as delegates from China’s national government and participating cities. For all of us, this trip to Singapore was an eye-opening experience that highlighted the essential role of integrated urban planning in building sustainable cities, and provided practical solutions that can be readily adapted to help achieve each city’s own development vision.

As an urban dweller in Beijing, a rapidly modernizing city, my daily life would look like a science-fiction movie for people from just a few decades ago. I use my mobile phone to buy groceries, pay for meals, take photos, access the subway, and find my way to unknown places. Digital technology has disrupted urban development and transformed city life, which makes me wonder: How will disruptive technologies reshape the future of cities, especially those in emerging economies?