Culture is an important mediator between behavior and the environment, impacting on social participation and environmental action, and thus in turn on sustainable development. It is also of great significance in shaping our quality of life within the context of globalization, both in urban and rural areas. In this volume, renowned researchers from around the world and from a variety of disciplines, including psychology, architecture, design, and urban planning, take a global perspective in looking at the implications of culture and cultural differences for our quality of life and the way in which people interact. These implications are illustrated using real-world examples. The contributions, carefully selected and edited from presentations at the 17th Conference of the International Association for People-Environment Studies (IAPS) held in A Coruña, Spain, deal with the following main themes: - Culture, quality of life, and globalization - Environmental action and participation - Urban sustainability and cultural diversity - Children and the environment - The elderly and the environment A useful tool for researchers, students, and those involved in decision-making processes, this book should contribute to the improved management of environmental resources within a framework of sustainability, multiculturalism, and responsible environmental action.