SynopsisContent Page

In the last 50 years, global biodiversity has experienced a catastrophic decline. According to the 2024 Living Planet Report, there has been a 73% average decline in the size of monitored wildlife populations worldwide. The primary cause of this decline is not natural disaster, but human activity, with urbanisation being a major factor in this depressing picture. The theme of this issue, “Coexistence” is both a reminder and a response to this debacle. The term "Coexistence" means a state of two or more entities existing together at the same time or in the same place, without causing harm to the other. Coexistence can range from mere physical presence to deep mutual respect and cooperation. Although the term encompasses social, cultural and political spheres, in the context of this issue, we largely focus on the coexistence of the urban and natural - two dimensions of our existence whose interface has transformed from one of respect to contestation. This issue seeks to remind us of this interface in the hopes of rereading the city as a multispecies ecology that is not meant for humans alone. An article on Kyoto explains the respect of the traditional Japanese society for nature in urban planning, two articles from India show how even in this rapidly urbanising country respect for natural features can achieve multispecies futures around a natural depression in north India, and how judicious planning policies fulfil dual goals of urbanism and thriving wildlife in central India. Another interesting article expounds how Bonnet Macaques have adjusted their lifestyle to the urban context. Worth special mention is also an article on how the right policies for meeting the gigantic housing demand in Indian cities can be designed creatively to attain low-carbon futures. While unlimited freedom for humans on this planet will remain a mirage (and that may not be a bad thing) as articles in this issue illustrate, prudently limiting human freedom to respect other denizens of this planet can lead to a richer and more sustainable world.