Climate change, dwindling natural resources, and growing urban populations will change the future of cities. Building successful future cities, or reshaping urban centers, requires harmonious coexistence with the natural environment and ecosystems, and now is the best time for us to think carefully about how to make these future cities a reality.
In developing countries like China, many emerging cities are still under construction. It is important to minimize the use of petroleum fuels during the development process. However, large cities with high development density often generate considerable carbon emissions due to population migration, transportation of goods, food and water, which makes people question whether this is really right?
In comparison, abandoning the distinction between urban and suburban areas and adopting a composite regional development model may be a more sustainable urban development model. Connected with agriculture and ecosystems, this regional development model can recycle nutrients and water resources and make more efficient use of local resources. Some cities will provide high-tech medical and educational services, and each will form a living area providing commercial and social services. Information and communication technology can reduce the need for transportation and reduce carbon emissions.
This kind of development method can loosen funds and thereby increase social welfare. In the past, in order to support the intensive development of metropolitan areas, too much money was spent on infrastructure construction, and was reduced to social development such as health and education.
Of course, this kind of development requires a new economic model to use resources more flexibly and efficiently. Such an economic model can be thought of in three directions. The first is to strengthen the value of protecting ecosystems, such as raising carbon prices to encourage green living and punish waste of resources. The second is to distribute resources equitably so that renewable energy is no longer just for the rich. Third, legislation promotes the effective use of renewable energy: encouraging people to think carefully about the types of energy they use and increasing the supply of renewable energy.
With 50% to 70% of existing buildings in wealthier countries expected to last by 2050, they should focus on moving existing cities toward a low-carbon future. For example, in less dense suburbs in the United States, updated methods can start from the implementation of mixed development at public transportation intersections, bringing new vitality and services without causing too drastic changes to the suburban landscape.
In addition, streets are updated to include sidewalks and bicycle routes to reduce car use. Preserving green space can improve drainage systems and air quality, reduce the urban heat island effect, and improve health. The multi-use building design maximizes efficiency and value, with apartments being used as offices and vice versa, as well as using the roofs for intensive food growing.
Carefully planning the future development model of the city is the way for every city to survive.
For details, please refer to the website: http://www.theguardian.com/sustainable-business/urbanisation-inventing-clean-economy-place
Source: Environmental Information Center (2014-05-01)
