Perspectives on environmental sustainability and land use dynamics in peri-urban interface of Global South

Peri-urban transitions drive rapid spatial transformations and environmental changes at the urban periphery on a global scale. In the Global South, these peripheral landscapes are characterised by heterogeneous morphologies, reflecting dynamic land-use changes, rapid real estate expansion, and unregulated development. Peri-urban regions are particularly susceptible to the challenges of metropolitan growth and the pressures of globalisation, yet they exhibit considerable variation in economic, social, and environmental conditions. The rural-urban interface in the Global South represents a complex and fluid transition zone, where population expansion often occurs at the expense of environmental sustainability. The pressures associated with peri-urbanisation frequently lead to the degradation of ecological systems, the decline of agricultural land, and the proliferation of informal settlements. However, with appropriate policy interventions and strategic planning, this transition can be harnessed to promote sustainable development. This paper examines sustainable urbanisation as a critical pathway for addressing the challenges of peri-urbanisation in the Global South. By exploring strategies that integrate environmental conservation, equitable land-use planning, and inclusive governance, the study highlights how sustainable approaches can mitigate adverse impacts while fostering resilient and adaptive urban growth.