Build on the characteristics of ecosystems
Cities can become more sustainable by model ling urban processes on ecological ap3500 principles of form and function, by which natural ecosystems operate. The characteristics of ecosystems include diversity, ap431 adaptiveness, interconnectedness, resilience, regenerative capacity and symbiosis. These characteristics can be incorporated by cities in the apc2010 development of strategies to make them more productive and regenerative, resulting in ecological, social and economic benefits. Each city has a distinctive profile of human, cultural, apm4546 historic and natural characteristics. This profile provides insights on pathways to sustainability that are both acceptable to their people and compatible with their values, traditions, institutions and apw7120 ecological realities. Building on existing characteristics helps motivate and mobilizes the human and physical resources of cities to achieve sustainable development and regeneration.