Medellin strives to become Latin America’s first ‘eco-city’

The Colombian city, notorious decades ago for its crime and violence, is reinventing itself.

Medellin, Colombia — About 30 years ago, Medellin was considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world. Drug cartels reigned, homicides and explosions were commonplace, and only the foolish strolled the streets at night. Through a series of smart investments in poor communities, transportation infrastructure, schools, technology and public parks, the city has transformed itself into a model of urban planning and innovation, garnering international recognition for its entrepreneurialism and modernity. Now, Medellin wants to reinvent itself again – this time as Latin America’s first “eco-city” with wide-ranging initiatives in renewable energy, transportation, housing, water management and waste.