The hosting of mega-events has a tremendous effect on developing and emerging countries. These can be positive in terms of economic investment, job creation, skills development and international branding but also can be negative in terms of their environmental footprint, for example via carbon emissions caused by international visitors to the event. Besides the environmental considerations, the important question needs to be addressed as to how such a mega-event, in particular the expenditure and investments that come with it, will benefit the poor.

While this aspect might not be as relevant in a developed country context, it is crucial in a developing one. This manual identifies mega-events as innovative catalysts to promote climate change awareness and sustainable urban development. The authors consider in detail the FIFA World Cup (South Africa 2010; Brazil 2014), The Olympic Games (Brazil 2016) and the Commonwealth Games (India 2010). They share first-hand experiences of preparing for and hosting mega-events in South Africa, India and Brazil with three case studies from the cities of Cape Town, New Delhi and Rio de Janeiro.

The manual also provides recommendations, which the authors hope will serve as encouragement to the sustainable development efforts of developing countries hosting or planning to host mega-events in the future.