Climate change, dwindling natural resources, and a growing urban population will all reshape the future of cities. Building successful future cities, or revitalizing urban centers, requires harmonious coexistence with the natural environment and ecosystems. Now is the perfect time to consider how to make these future cities a reality.
In developing countries like China, many new cities are still under construction, and minimizing the use of petroleum fuels during the development process is crucial. However, large, densely populated cities often generate considerable carbon emissions due to population migration, the transport of goods, food, and water, raising questions about whether this approach is truly appropriate.
In contrast, abandoning the distinction between urban and suburban areas and adopting a diversified regional development model may be a more sustainable approach to urban development. By integrating with agriculture and ecosystems, this model allows for the recycling of nutrients and water resources, leading to more efficient use of local resources. Some cities will provide high-tech medical and educational services, while simultaneously developing residential areas that offer commercial and social services. Information and communication technologies can reduce the need for commuting and decrease carbon emissions. This development approach can free up funding, thereby increasing social welfare. In the past, excessive funds were invested in infrastructure to support the dense development of metropolitan areas, leaving insufficient resources for social development such as health and education.
Of course, this development model requires a new economic model to utilize resources more flexibly and efficiently. This economic model can be considered from three directions. First, it's about strengthening the value of protecting ecosystems, for example, by raising carbon prices to encourage green living and punishing wasteful resource consumption. Second, it's about distributing resources fairly, ensuring that renewable energy is no longer the exclusive domain of the wealthy. Third, it's about legislating to promote the effective use of renewable energy: encouraging the public to carefully consider the types of energy they use and increasing the supply of renewable energy.
In wealthier countries, 50% to 70% of existing buildings are projected to be usable until 2050, so they should focus on building low-carbon futures for existing cities. For example, in less densely populated suburbs in the United States, renewal can be achieved through mixed-use development at public transportation hubs, bringing new vitality and services without drastically altering the suburban landscape.
In addition, updating streets by adding sidewalks and bicycle lanes can reduce car use. Preserving green spaces can improve drainage systems and air quality, mitigate the urban heat island effect, and promote health. Multi-purpose building designs maximize efficiency and value; apartments can be used as offices and vice versa, while rooftops can be used for intensive food cultivation. Carefully planning future urban development models is essential for the survival of every city.
For detailed information, please refer to the website: http://www.theguardian.com/sustainable-business/urbanisation-inventing-clean-economy-place Source: Environmental Information Center (2014-05-01)
