Contemporary Megaprojects: Organization, Vision, and Resistance in the 21st Century

Contemporary megaprojects have evolved from centralized authorities to encompass large-scale construction, space exploration, and cutting-edge technology. This collection showcases their impact on society and the environment, with case studies ranging from mega-plantations to ocean mapping.

Format: Hardback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 13 August 2021
Publisher: Berghahn Books

From the discreet, modernist endeavors of centralized authorities in the past, contemporary megaprojects have grown to encompass a wide range of activities, including large-scale construction and space exploration. This transformation has been driven by advancements in technology, the involvement of the private sector, and the emergence of decentralized and dematerialized processes.

In this comprehensive collection, scholars from various disciplines examine the impact of contemporary megaprojects on society and the environment. Through case studies that span diverse sectors, such as mega-plantations in Southeast Asia, ocean mapping, and sports events, the contributors showcase the increasing ambition and pervasiveness of these projects. They also highlight the significant challenges and controversies associated with them, including concerns about environmental degradation, social displacement, and economic inequality.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the role of cutting-edge technology in enabling the realization of contemporary megaprojects. From advanced construction techniques to satellite imaging and virtual reality, technology has played a pivotal role in shaping the design, planning, and execution of these projects. However, the authors also emphasize the ethical and social considerations that arise with the widespread adoption of these technologies, such as the potential for surveillance, data mining, and privacy breaches.

Another important aspect of contemporary megaprojects is the involvement of the private sector. While the public sector has historically been the primary driver of infrastructure development, private companies have increasingly played a significant role in financing, constructing, and operating megaprojects. This has led to concerns about the concentration of power, the potential for profit-driven decision-making, and the lack of accountability for environmental and social impacts.

To address these challenges, the book advocates for a more decentralized and democratic approach to megaproject development. This includes promoting public-private partnerships, engaging local communities in decision-making processes, and implementing sustainable and socially responsible practices throughout the project lifecycle. The authors also highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in megaproject management, as well as the need for long-term planning and sustainable development strategies.

In conclusion, Contemporary Megaprojects provides a valuable insight into the evolving landscape of contemporary megaprojects. By examining the impact of technology, the private sector, and decentralized processes, the book offers a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with these projects. It provides valuable insights for policymakers, developers, and stakeholders interested in promoting sustainable and socially responsible development in the 21st century.

Introduction:
Contemporary megaprojects have undergone a remarkable transformation from the discreet, modernist endeavors of centralized authorities in the past to encompass a wide range of activities, including large-scale construction and space exploration. This transformation has been driven by advancements in technology, the involvement of the private sector, and the emergence of decentralized and dematerialized processes.

Impact of Technology:
One of the key drivers of contemporary megaprojects has been the widespread adoption of cutting-edge technology. From advanced construction techniques to satellite imaging and virtual reality, technology has played a pivotal role in shaping the design, planning, and execution of these projects. However, the authors also emphasize the ethical and social considerations that arise with the widespread adoption of these technologies, such as the potential for surveillance, data mining, and privacy breaches.

Involvement of the Private Sector:
Another important aspect of contemporary megaprojects is the involvement of the private sector. While the public sector has historically been the primary driver of infrastructure development, private companies have increasingly played a significant role in financing, constructing, and operating megaprojects. This has led to concerns about the concentration of power, the potential for profit-driven decision-making, and the lack of accountability for environmental and social impacts.

Decentralization and Dematerialization:
To address these challenges, the book advocates for a more decentralized and democratic approach to megaproject development. This includes promoting public-private partnerships, engaging local communities in decision-making processes, and implementing sustainable and socially responsible practices throughout the project lifecycle. The authors also highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in megaproject management, as well as the need for long-term planning and sustainable development strategies.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Contemporary Megaprojects provides a valuable insight into the evolving landscape of contemporary megaprojects. By examining the impact of technology, the private sector, and decentralized processes, the book offers a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with these projects. It provides valuable insights for policymakers, developers, and stakeholders interested in promoting sustainable and socially responsible development in the 21st century.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800731516