Enrique Peñalosa Londoño's new book, Equality and the City stands as a profound manifesto for sustainable urbanism, drawing from his tenure as mayor of Bogotá, Colombia, and his extensive international experience. Through a meticulous blend of case studies, practical criteria, and philosophical reflections, Peñalosa offers a compelling vision for cities that prioritise equality, accessibility, and human dignity.

I’ve been super interested in urban planning and development for many years now, and have read quite a lot on the subject so I was really looking forward to reading this- and I wasn’t disappointed!

Peñalosa's narrative is anchored in his transformative initiatives as mayor, notably the development of the TransMilenio Rapid Bus Transit system. This system, a hallmark of his administration, exemplifies his commitment to providing efficient, inclusive transportation solutions. With dedicated bus lanes, bike paths, and a rapid metro line, TransMilenio accommodates 2.5 million passengers daily, reaffirming Peñalosa's belief that true urban advancement lies in accessible public transport, not private car ownership.

Central to Peñalosa's ethos is the creation of vibrant public spaces, a cornerstone of urban equality. Throughout his tenure, he spearheaded the establishment and enhancement of over a thousand public parks, fostering communal interaction and recreation. These initiatives underscore his belief that city design transcends mere engineering, since it shapes the very fabric of human happiness and societal equity.

Equality and the City seamlessly weaves together Peñalosa's experiences, insights, and aspirations, offering a comprehensive framework for reimagining urban landscapes. His prose, crammed with information, retains a captivating quality that propels the reader through a rich collection of ideas and observations. Despite often repetitions, which is my main and only complaint about this book, Peñalosa's arguments remain cogent and persuasive, augmented by compelling case studies that elucidate the practical implementation of his principles.

One of the book's most interesting aspects is its emphasis on inclusivity and social equity. Peñalosa's vision transcends mere infrastructure; it embraces a holistic approach to city planning that prioritises the needs of all citizens, irrespective of socioeconomic status.

Equality and the City serves as a rallying cry for policymakers, urban planners, and activists alike. Peñalosa's pragmatic yet visionary outlook offers a roadmap for effecting tangible change in the built environment. By highlighting the obstacles to sustainable urbanism and proposing actionable solutions, he empowers readers to become catalysts for positive urban renewal.