The urbanization of developing countries and the growth of spontaneous settlements are taking place on such a scale that national and local governments cannot cope with the demand for decent shelter conditions.

Deals with the necessity of energy conservation in developing countries as they become industralized and their populations grow - the need for increasing amounts of energy places a heavy burden on energy-supply systems.

Emphasizes the possibilities of using renewable sources of energy instead of conventional fuels to heat buildings in the cool season and to heat them in the hot season through the proper design and construction of buildings.

Describes a low-cost innovative sanitation technology which has particular application in high-density, low-income settlements.

This case study examines a successful example of supplying water to a rural settlement. Elements specific to this success are noted, as are aspects of the programme which need improvement.

Reports in a precise way on why inadequate water-supply and waste disposal management in developing countries is one of the consequences of the low priorities and limited funds assigned to these sectors in national development plans.

This study was co-prepared between UNCHS (Habitat) and the Government of Sri Lanka as a midway documentation and assessment of the International Year of Shelter for the Homeless Demonstration project for Low-income shelter.

Examines the factors that hamper the production and use of selected indigenous building materials in developing countries, and identifies measures which can be undertaken to expand their use; provides decision-makers with a basis to undertake reforms in the building materials sector.

This handbook, The Councillor as Communicator, is one of the series of 12 and is intended for use primarily by trainers in national training institutions for local government or training units within local governments themselves.