About Us
WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities is the World Resources Institute’s program dedicated to shaping a future where cities work better for everyone.
We are a team of 300+ local and international experts with deep expertise in urban planning and development, mobility, energy efficiency, resilience, housing, water management and more. 80% of our staff are based in offices in Brazil, China, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Mexico and Turkey.
We focus on integrated solutions to new and long-standing urban challenges, primarily in the global south. Cities in Latin America, sub-Saharan Africa, East Asia, South Asia and the Pacific represent the greatest opportunity for a radical shift in how urban areas are planned, built and governed.
Through innovative research, deep engagement, and global partnerships, our network of local and international experts puts cities on a trajectory of more sustainable and equitable development. We catalyze and accelerate transformative initiatives that turn cities into resilient, inclusive, low-carbon places that are good for people and the planet.
WRI Ross Center was established in 2014 following a $30.5 million contribution from Stephen M. Ross, chairman and founder of Related Companies. It expands the transport and urban development expertise of the EMBARQ network to catalyze innovative solutions in other sectors, including water, buildings, land use and energy.