#Benefits of green infrastructure in cities

[greenthestral]

Building Sustainable Cities and Communities: The Path to a Greener Future

In today's rapidly urbanizing world, the concept of sustainability has become more important than ever. Goal 11 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focuses on creating sustainable cities and communities. With the global population projected to reach 9.8 billion by 2050, the need for sustainable urban planning and development is paramount. This article explores the significance of Goal 11 and highlights the key strategies and initiatives required to build greener, more resilient cities and communities.

Understanding Goal 11

Goal 11 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has a comprehensive vision for cities and human settlements. It recognizes the importance of inclusivity, safety, resilience, and sustainability in urban areas. By addressing various aspects of urban development, Goal 11 aims to create thriving communities that prioritize the well-being of their residents and the environment.

One of the key objectives of Goal 11 is to ensure the availability of affordable housing. Access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing is a fundamental right for all individuals. However, in many urban areas, housing affordability has become a significant challenge, leading to homelessness and housing insecurity. Goal 11 emphasizes the need to implement policies and initiatives that promote affordable housing options. This can be achieved through social housing programs, rent control measures, and housing subsidies. By ensuring affordable housing, cities can address social inequality, provide stability to residents, and foster inclusive communities.

Sustainable transport systems are another crucial aspect of Goal 11. Transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution in cities. To create sustainable cities and communities, it is essential to prioritize low-carbon and efficient transportation options. This includes expanding public transportation networks, encouraging cycling and walking infrastructure, and promoting the use of electric vehicles. By shifting away from private vehicles and promoting sustainable modes of transportation, cities can reduce congestion, improve air quality, and enhance mobility for all residents.

Efficient waste management is also highlighted in Goal 11. As cities grow, waste generation increases, posing significant environmental challenges. Sustainable waste management practices are crucial to minimize the environmental impact of urban areas. Goal 11 encourages the adoption of integrated waste management systems that prioritize waste reduction, recycling, and resource recovery. This can be achieved through initiatives such as waste segregation, composting, and the establishment of recycling facilities. Effective waste management not only helps reduce environmental pollution but also promotes the concept of a circular economy, where resources are used efficiently and waste is minimized.

Access to green spaces is another essential element of sustainable cities and communities. Urban areas often face challenges related to limited green areas and a lack of connection with nature. Goal 11 recognizes the importance of green infrastructure, which includes parks, urban forests, green roofs, and other natural elements integrated into the built environment. These green spaces provide numerous benefits, including improved air quality, reduced heat island effect, enhanced biodiversity, and increased recreational opportunities. By incorporating green spaces into cities, residents can have access to nature, promoting physical and mental well-being.

Preserving cultural heritage is a crucial aspect of Goal 11. Cities and communities are rich in history, culture, and traditions that contribute to their identity and uniqueness. Goal 11 emphasizes the need to safeguard cultural heritage sites, historic buildings, and traditional practices. By preserving cultural heritage, cities can maintain a sense of identity, promote cultural diversity, and attract tourism and economic opportunities. This preservation contributes to the social fabric and vibrancy of cities, making them more sustainable and livable.

By implementing the objectives of Goal 11, societies can enhance the quality of life for residents, reduce environmental impacts, and promote economic growth. Sustainable cities and communities prioritize the well-being of their residents, ensure social equity, and protect the environment. They provide affordable housing options, efficient transport systems, proper waste management, access to green spaces, and preserve cultural heritage. Ultimately, the successful implementation of Goal 11 leads to inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable urban areas that benefit present and future generations.

Sustainable Urban Planning

Sustainable urban planning is a key factor in the successful achievement of Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. It focuses on designing cities and communities that are not only visually appealing and functional but also prioritize environmental sustainability, resource efficiency, and the well-being of residents.

One of the primary principles of sustainable urban planning is the concept of compact cities. This approach encourages the development of cities that are designed to be dense and compact, rather than sprawling outward. Compact cities promote the efficient use of land, resources, and infrastructure. By concentrating development within a smaller footprint, compact cities minimize urban sprawl, preserve valuable agricultural land and natural habitats, and protect ecosystems. This approach also helps to reduce the need for long commutes, as essential services, amenities, and employment opportunities are located within close proximity to residential areas.

Well-connected cities are another crucial aspect of sustainable urban planning. The goal is to create cities and communities where different neighborhoods and areas are easily accessible to one another. This can be achieved through the design and implementation of a comprehensive transportation network that prioritizes public transportation over private vehicles. Robust public transportation systems, including buses, trains, and light rail, can reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and enhance mobility for residents. Additionally, sustainable urban planning promotes the development of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and encourages the use of bicycles, further reducing reliance on private vehicles and promoting active and healthy lifestyles.

Renewable energy plays a significant role in sustainable urban planning. The transition to clean and renewable energy sources is essential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Sustainable cities and communities incorporate renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels and wind turbines, into their infrastructure. By integrating renewable energy sources, cities can reduce their dependence on fossil fuels for electricity generation, mitigate air pollution, and contribute to a greener and more sustainable energy future.

Sustainable urban planning also emphasizes mixed land-use development. This approach seeks to create neighborhoods and areas where residential, commercial, and recreational spaces coexist in close proximity. Mixed land-use development reduces the need for long-distance travel and promotes walkability. It allows residents to access essential services, educational institutions, employment opportunities, and recreational facilities without having to rely heavily on private vehicles. By integrating various land uses, sustainable urban planning fosters vibrant and diverse communities that promote social interaction and economic vitality.

Furthermore, sustainable urban planning takes into account the importance of green infrastructure. This involves incorporating green spaces, parks, and natural elements into the urban fabric. Green infrastructure provides numerous benefits, such as improved air quality, temperature regulation, stormwater management, and biodiversity conservation. Parks and green spaces offer recreational opportunities, enhance the aesthetic appeal of cities, and contribute to the overall well-being and quality of life of residents.

In conclusion, sustainable urban planning is crucial for achieving Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By designing cities and communities that are compact, well-connected, and resource-efficient, we can minimize urban sprawl, protect ecosystems, and reduce carbon emissions. Sustainable urban planning promotes mixed land-use development, prioritizes public transportation, and encourages the use of renewable energy sources. It also recognizes the importance of green infrastructure and the integration of natural elements into urban environments. By embracing sustainable urban planning principles, cities and communities can create a more sustainable, livable, and resilient future for all.

Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure plays a vital role in creating sustainable cities and communities. It refers to the integration of natural elements, such as parks, green roofs, urban forests, green walls, and permeable surfaces, into the built environment. By incorporating these green spaces into cities and communities, numerous benefits are realized, positively impacting both the environment and the well-being of residents.

One significant advantage of green infrastructure is the improvement of air quality. Trees, plants, and vegetation help absorb pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and particulate matter from the air. Through the process of photosynthesis, plants release oxygen and filter harmful substances, leading to cleaner and healthier air. This reduction in air pollution contributes to the overall improvement of public health, as exposure to pollutants is linked to respiratory diseases and other health issues.

Another benefit of green infrastructure is the mitigation of the urban heat island effect. Urban areas tend to have higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas due to the concentration of buildings, roads, and concrete surfaces that absorb and retain heat. By incorporating green spaces, such as parks and urban forests, cities can create pockets of vegetation that provide shade and evaporative cooling, reducing ambient temperatures. This helps create a more comfortable and livable environment, particularly during hot summer months.

Green infrastructure also enhances biodiversity within urban areas. Traditional urban development often results in the destruction of natural habitats and fragmentation of ecosystems. By incorporating green spaces, cities can create corridors and habitats that support a variety of plant and animal species. These spaces provide shelter, food sources, and nesting areas, promoting biodiversity and ecological balance within the urban environment. By fostering biodiversity, cities can create resilient ecosystems that can adapt to environmental changes and provide ecosystem services.

In addition to the environmental benefits, green infrastructure also provides social and economic advantages. Access to green spaces has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health and well-being. People living in areas with green infrastructure have increased opportunities for outdoor activities, exercise, and relaxation, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall quality of life. Green spaces also provide opportunities for social interaction and community engagement, fostering a sense of belonging and community cohesion.

Furthermore, incorporating green infrastructure into cities and communities contributes to economic prosperity. Green spaces attract tourism and visitors, generating revenue for local businesses. Properties located near green spaces often experience increased value, leading to economic benefits for property owners. Green infrastructure also has the potential to create job opportunities, particularly in the areas of park maintenance, landscaping, and urban forestry.

To fully realize the benefits of green infrastructure, strategic planning and implementation are essential. Cities and communities need to consider factors such as appropriate land allocation, connectivity of green spaces, and community engagement in the planning process. Collaboration between urban planners, architects, landscape designers, environmental experts, and community stakeholders is crucial to ensure the successful integration of green infrastructure into the urban fabric.

Green infrastructure plays a significant role in creating sustainable cities and communities. By integrating natural elements into the built environment, cities can reap a multitude of benefits. Improved air quality, reduced urban heat island effect, enhanced biodiversity, and increased recreational opportunities are among the advantages of green infrastructure. Moreover, it fosters a healthier and more livable environment, positively impacting the physical and mental well-being of residents. By prioritizing and investing in green infrastructure, cities can create sustainable, resilient, and vibrant urban spaces for present and future generations.

Affordable Housing

The lack of affordable housing is a significant challenge faced by many urban areas around the world. It is a complex issue that affects individuals and communities, impacting their overall well-being and quality of life. Goal 11 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals recognizes the importance of addressing this challenge and emphasizes the need to ensure access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing for all.

Affordable housing refers to housing options that are within the financial means of individuals and families, considering their income levels. It is a fundamental right that enables individuals to live in safe and decent conditions, fostering stability and security. However, in many cities, the cost of housing has escalated significantly, making it unaffordable for a significant portion of the population, particularly low-income households.

To address this issue, Goal 11 encourages the implementation of policies and initiatives that promote affordable housing options. One approach is through the establishment of social housing programs. Social housing involves the provision of housing units at below-market rates to individuals and families who are unable to afford market-rate housing. These programs are often administered by government agencies or non-profit organizations and aim to provide affordable and stable housing for those in need. Social housing plays a crucial role in addressing homelessness, reducing housing inequality, and promoting social stability.

Rent control measures are another policy tool used to promote affordable housing. Rent control laws set limits on the amount landlords can increase rents, providing stability for tenants and preventing excessive rent hikes. These measures aim to protect vulnerable populations from the risk of displacement due to rising housing costs. Rent control can help maintain affordable housing options in areas where market forces would otherwise drive up rents, allowing individuals and families to remain in their homes and communities.

In addition to social housing and rent control, the provision of housing subsidies is another strategy to promote affordable housing. Housing subsidies are financial assistance programs that help low-income individuals and families cover the cost of housing. These subsidies can come in the form of rental assistance, such as Section 8 vouchers in the United States, or direct financial assistance to support homeownership. Housing subsidies help bridge the gap between income levels and housing costs, making housing more affordable and accessible to those in need.

Promoting affordable housing not only addresses the immediate issue of homelessness and housing insecurity but also contributes to social stability and inclusive communities. Access to affordable housing allows individuals and families to establish roots, build community connections, and contribute to the local economy. It fosters a sense of stability and security, providing a foundation for individuals to pursue education, employment, and other opportunities that contribute to their overall well-being. Affordable housing also helps prevent the displacement of vulnerable populations, preserving the social fabric and diversity of communities.

However, addressing the lack of affordable housing requires a multi-faceted approach and collaboration between various stakeholders. Governments, policymakers, urban planners, and community organizations play a crucial role in implementing effective strategies and initiatives. It is essential to consider factors such as land use planning, zoning regulations, construction costs, and the availability of financing mechanisms to support affordable housing development.

Furthermore, affordable housing initiatives should prioritize sustainable and energy-efficient design and construction practices. This not only reduces the environmental impact of housing but also lowers ongoing utility costs for residents, making housing more affordable in the long run. The integration of affordable housing with transportation hubs, amenities, and employment opportunities is also important to ensure that residents have access to essential services and can minimize transportation costs.

The lack of affordable housing is a critical challenge in urban areas, impacting the well-being and quality of life of individuals and communities. Goal 11 recognizes the importance of ensuring access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing for all. Through the implementation of policies and initiatives such as social housing programs, rent control measures, and housing subsidies, affordable housing options can be promoted. Affordable housing contributes to social stability, inclusive communities, and provides individuals and families with a foundation for economic and personal development. Addressing the issue of affordable housing requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach, involving governments, policymakers, urban planners, and community organizations to create sustainable and inclusive cities and communities

Sustainable Transport Systems

Transportation plays a significant role in urban areas, connecting people to their workplaces, schools, healthcare facilities, and leisure activities. However, traditional transportation systems heavily rely on fossil fuels, resulting in substantial greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Goal 11 of the Sustainable Development Goals recognizes the need to develop sustainable transport systems that are accessible, affordable, and low-carbon, in order to create more sustainable cities and communities.

One of the key objectives of Goal 11 is to expand public transportation networks. Public transportation, such as buses, trams, and trains, offers an efficient and environmentally-friendly alternative to private vehicles. By investing in the expansion and improvement of public transportation infrastructure, cities can provide residents with reliable and affordable transportation options. This reduces the reliance on private cars, which contribute significantly to congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions. Accessible and well-connected public transportation systems also promote social inclusivity by ensuring that individuals of all socioeconomic backgrounds have equal access to transportation services.

Promoting cycling and walking is another crucial aspect of sustainable transportation. Encouraging these modes of transportation not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also promotes active and healthy lifestyles. Cities can invest in infrastructure that supports safe and convenient cycling and walking, such as dedicated bike lanes, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, and bike-sharing programs. These initiatives not only contribute to reduced traffic congestion and improved air quality but also enhance the overall well-being of residents by encouraging physical activity and reducing sedentary lifestyles.

Furthermore, Goal 11 promotes the use of electric vehicles (EVs) as a sustainable transportation option. Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing local air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. To support the adoption of EVs, cities can establish charging infrastructure, offer incentives for purchasing EVs, and promote public transportation systems that utilize electric buses and trains. The transition to electric vehicles also contributes to reducing dependence on fossil fuels and promoting the use of renewable energy sources in the transportation sector.

In addition to reducing emissions and air pollution, sustainable transportation systems offer several other benefits. By reducing congestion through the promotion of public transportation and active modes of transportation, cities can improve traffic flow and travel times. This enhances overall mobility and accessibility for all residents, including those who cannot afford private vehicles or have mobility restrictions. Sustainable transportation systems also contribute to improved road safety by reducing the number of vehicles on the road and promoting safer infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians.

To effectively implement sustainable transportation systems, cities need to adopt integrated and holistic approaches. This involves comprehensive urban planning that considers land use, transportation infrastructure, and public spaces. Planning should prioritize the development of compact, mixed-use neighborhoods that promote walkability and access to public transportation. It is crucial to engage with communities and stakeholders to ensure that transportation systems meet their needs and preferences.

Furthermore, the use of innovative technologies and smart transportation solutions can enhance the efficiency and sustainability of transportation systems. Intelligent transportation systems, such as real-time traffic monitoring, smart traffic signals, and integrated fare payment systems, can optimize transportation operations and improve overall system performance. These technologies can help reduce travel times, enhance user experience, and minimize environmental impacts.

In conclusion, sustainable transportation is a key component of Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By promoting the development of accessible, affordable, and low-carbon transportation systems, cities can reduce congestion, improve air quality, and enhance mobility for all residents. Expanding public transportation networks, encouraging cycling and walking, and promoting the use of electric vehicles are important strategies in achieving sustainable transportation goals. To realize the benefits of sustainable transportation, cities should adopt integrated planning approaches, engage with communities, and leverage innovative technologies. By prioritizing sustainable modes of transportation, cities can create healthier, more livable, and environmentally-friendly urban environments.

Waste Management and Recycling

Effective waste management and recycling practices are crucial for creating sustainable cities and communities. The increasing population and urbanization have led to a significant rise in waste generation, posing environmental and health challenges. Goal 11 of the Sustainable Development Goals emphasizes the need for integrated waste management systems that prioritize waste reduction, recycling, and resource recovery.

One of the key objectives of Goal 11 is to promote waste reduction. By implementing waste reduction strategies, cities can minimize the amount of waste generated in the first place. This includes promoting the use of sustainable packaging, encouraging the adoption of reusable products, and raising awareness about the importance of minimizing waste. By reducing the amount of waste generated, cities can conserve natural resources, reduce energy consumption, and minimize the environmental impact associated with waste disposal.

Waste segregation is another essential component of effective waste management. By segregating waste at the source, cities can facilitate the recycling and proper disposal of different types of waste. Proper waste segregation involves separating recyclable materials, such as paper, plastics, glass, and metals, from non-recyclable waste. This allows for the efficient recycling and recovery of valuable resources, reducing the need for raw materials extraction and the associated environmental impact. Waste segregation can be achieved through community education and the provision of recycling bins and collection systems.

Recycling plays a critical role in sustainable waste management. It involves the conversion of waste materials into new products, reducing the demand for virgin materials and conserving natural resources. Cities can establish recycling facilities and collection programs to facilitate the recycling process. Recycling initiatives should be comprehensive and cover a wide range of materials, including paper, plastics, glass, metals, and electronic waste. By promoting recycling and creating an infrastructure to support it, cities can reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and incineration facilities, thereby minimizing the environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions associated with these disposal methods.

Composting is another important practice in sustainable waste management. Organic waste, such as food scraps and yard trimmings, can be composted to create nutrient-rich soil amendments. Composting not only reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills but also produces a valuable resource that can be used in gardening, landscaping, and agricultural activities. Cities can promote home composting, as well as establish community composting programs and composting facilities, to divert organic waste from the waste stream and promote the circular economy.

To ensure the effectiveness of waste management systems, it is crucial to educate and engage communities. Public awareness campaigns and educational programs can help individuals and households understand the importance of waste reduction, segregation, and recycling. Citizens can be encouraged to adopt sustainable waste management practices through incentives, such as reduced waste collection fees for households that recycle or compost effectively. Engaging communities in the waste management process fosters a sense of responsibility and ownership, leading to increased participation and compliance with waste management guidelines.

In addition to environmental benefits, efficient waste management and recycling practices also offer economic opportunities. The recycling industry can create jobs and stimulate local economies through the collection, processing, and manufacturing of recycled materials. By promoting a circular economy, where waste is viewed as a valuable resource, cities can contribute to the creation of a sustainable and resilient economy.

Furthermore, sustainable waste management practices contribute to the overall cleanliness and aesthetic appeal of cities. Proper waste collection and disposal systems help maintain cleanliness, reduce litter, and prevent the spread of diseases. A clean and well-managed waste management system enhances the livability of cities, attracting visitors and fostering a sense of pride among residents.

Effective waste management and recycling practices are essential for achieving sustainable cities and communities. Goal 11 emphasizes the adoption of integrated waste management systems that prioritize waste reduction, recycling, and resource recovery. By implementing waste reduction strategies, promoting waste segregation, establishing recycling facilities, and promoting composting, cities can minimize the environmental impact of waste, conserve resources, and promote a circular economy. Public education and community engagement play a crucial role in ensuring the success of sustainable waste management initiatives. By investing in sustainable waste management practices, cities can create cleaner, healthier, and more environmentally-friendly urban environments for present and future generations

Climate Resilience

Building climate resilience is a critical aspect of creating sustainable cities and communities. With the increasing impacts of climate change, such as rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and sea-level rise, it is crucial for cities to develop adaptation and mitigation strategies to reduce vulnerability and enhance resilience. Goal 11 of the Sustainable Development Goals recognizes the importance of incorporating climate resilience into urban planning and development.

One of the key objectives of Goal 11 is to improve infrastructure resilience. This involves designing and constructing infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change. For example, in coastal areas, infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and buildings can be built to be more resistant to storm surges and sea-level rise. In areas prone to extreme heat, infrastructure can incorporate heat-resistant materials and design elements that promote natural ventilation and cooling. By integrating climate resilience into infrastructure planning and development, cities can ensure that their critical systems and services remain operational during and after climate-related events, reducing disruption and protecting the well-being of their populations.

Implementing early warning systems is another important strategy for climate resilience. Early warning systems help cities anticipate and respond to climate-related hazards, such as hurricanes, floods, and heatwaves. These systems involve monitoring weather patterns and environmental conditions, as well as disseminating timely and accurate information to residents and relevant authorities. By providing early warnings, cities can improve preparedness, facilitate timely evacuations if necessary, and minimize the potential impacts of climate-related events on human lives and infrastructure.

Creating green infrastructure is another crucial measure for climate resilience. Green infrastructure refers to the use of natural elements, such as parks, urban forests, green roofs, and permeable surfaces, to manage stormwater, reduce the urban heat island effect, and enhance biodiversity. Green infrastructure helps mitigate the impacts of climate change by absorbing and storing rainwater, reducing the risk of flooding, and providing shade and cooling effects in urban areas. By incorporating green spaces into cities and communities, not only can the negative impacts of urbanization be mitigated, but residents can also enjoy improved air quality, enhanced recreational opportunities, and a better overall quality of life.

In addition to these specific strategies, incorporating climate resilience into urban planning is crucial. Cities need to consider climate risks and vulnerabilities in their long-term development plans. This includes identifying areas at risk of flooding, landslides, or other climate-related hazards and implementing appropriate land-use planning measures. For example, zoning regulations can be updated to prevent construction in high-risk areas or require developers to implement climate adaptation measures in their projects. By integrating climate resilience into urban planning, cities can ensure that new developments are designed with climate change in mind and that existing infrastructure is retrofitted to enhance resilience.

Furthermore, collaboration and partnerships are essential for building climate resilience. Cities should work with various stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, businesses, and academia, to develop and implement climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. Collaboration allows for the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and resources, leading to more effective and comprehensive climate resilience measures. Engaging the community in the planning and decision-making process also fosters a sense of ownership and increases the likelihood of successful implementation.

Investing in climate resilience not only helps cities adapt to the impacts of climate change but also brings multiple co-benefits. For example, green infrastructure not only helps manage stormwater but also improves air quality, enhances urban biodiversity, and provides recreational spaces for residents. Climate-resilient infrastructure can also contribute to energy efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability.

In conclusion, building climate resilience is a crucial component of Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By incorporating climate resilience into urban planning, improving infrastructure resilience, implementing early warning systems, and creating green infrastructure, cities can reduce vulnerability and enhance their ability to withstand the impacts of climate change. Collaboration and community engagement are vital for the successful implementation of climate resilience measures. By investing in climate resilience, cities can protect their populations, infrastructure, and natural resources, ensuring a more sustainable and resilient future for all.

Preserving Cultural Heritage

Preserving cultural heritage is a vital aspect of sustainable development, and Goal 11 of the Sustainable Development Goals emphasizes the significance of safeguarding cultural heritage sites, historic buildings, and traditional practices. Cultural heritage encompasses a wide range of tangible and intangible elements, including monuments, archaeological sites, traditional craftsmanship, folklore, language, and social practices. By protecting and promoting cultural heritage, cities and communities can foster a sense of identity, promote social cohesion, attract tourism, and generate economic opportunities.

One of the key objectives of Goal 11 is to safeguard cultural heritage sites and historic buildings. These sites hold significant historical, architectural, and cultural value, and their preservation is crucial for maintaining a connection to the past and passing on knowledge to future generations. Historic buildings are not only physical structures but also bear witness to the stories, traditions, and identity of a place and its people. By protecting and conserving these sites, cities can maintain their unique character and cultural identity, contributing to a sense of pride and belonging among residents.

Preserving cultural heritage also has economic benefits for cities and communities. Cultural heritage tourism has gained prominence in recent years, with travelers seeking authentic experiences and a deeper understanding of local cultures. By promoting and preserving cultural heritage sites, cities can attract tourists, generate revenue, and create employment opportunities. Local businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and handicrafts, can thrive through the promotion of cultural tourism, contributing to the local economy and livelihoods. Additionally, cultural heritage preservation can revitalize historic districts and neighborhoods, attracting investment and fostering sustainable economic growth.

Furthermore, the preservation of cultural heritage contributes to the social fabric of cities and communities. Cultural heritage is often intertwined with people's identities, traditions, and sense of belonging. By safeguarding cultural heritage, cities can strengthen social cohesion, promote intergenerational dialogue, and foster community pride. Cultural heritage preservation provides opportunities for communities to celebrate and showcase their traditions, customs, and artistic expressions. This engagement with cultural heritage enhances social inclusion and diversity, creating spaces for dialogue, mutual understanding, and appreciation of different cultures and perspectives.

In addition to tangible cultural heritage, Goal 11 also recognizes the importance of preserving intangible cultural heritage. Intangible cultural heritage refers to practices, expressions, knowledge, and skills that are passed down from generation to generation. It includes oral traditions, performing arts, rituals, traditional craftsmanship, and knowledge systems. Preserving intangible cultural heritage not only safeguards traditional practices but also promotes cultural diversity and encourages intercultural dialogue. It is through the transmission and revitalization of intangible cultural heritage that cities and communities can maintain their unique identities and contribute to a rich and vibrant cultural landscape.

To effectively preserve cultural heritage, cities and communities need to engage in comprehensive and inclusive planning and decision-making processes. This involves collaboration with local communities, cultural institutions, heritage experts, and relevant stakeholders. It is important to involve local residents in decision-making processes, ensuring that their voices are heard and their cultural heritage is respected and protected. Additionally, capacity-building initiatives and educational programs can empower local communities to actively participate in the preservation and promotion of their cultural heritage.

The preservation of cultural heritage is an integral part of sustainable development. Goal 11 highlights the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage sites, historic buildings, and traditional practices. By protecting and promoting cultural heritage, cities and communities can foster a sense of identity, social cohesion, and economic opportunities. Cultural heritage preservation contributes to the uniqueness and vibrancy of cities, attracting tourism, and enriching the lives of residents. By integrating cultural heritage into urban planning and development, cities can create sustainable, inclusive, and culturally rich environments for present and future generations.

Conclusion

Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities is a critical component of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. As urbanization continues to accelerate, it is crucial to prioritize sustainable urban planning, green infrastructure, affordable housing, sustainable transport systems, waste management, climate resilience, and the preservation of cultural heritage. By working towards these objectives, cities and communities can create a more sustainable, inclusive, and livable future for all. Embracing Goal 11 is not only an environmental imperative but also a pathway to economic prosperity, social equity, and a greener future for generations to come.

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[mckinlily]

Plot armor but it’s Bruce Wayne’s wealth.

Bruce is one of the richest men in the world. Bruce does not want to be one of the richest men in world.

He starts by implementing high starting salaries and full health care coverages for all levels at Wayne Enterprises. This in vastly improves retention and worker productivity, and WE profits soar. He increases PTO, grants generous parental and family leave, funds diversity initiatives, boosts salaries again. WE is ranked “#1 worker-friendly corporation”, and productively and profits soar again.

Ok, so clearly investing his workers isn’t the profit-destroying doomed strategy his peers claim it is. Bruce is going to keep doing it obviously (his next initiative is to ensure all part-time and contractors get the same benefits and pay as full time employees), but he is going to have to find a different way to dump his money.

But you know what else is supposed to be prohibitively expensive? Green and ethical initiatives. Yes, Bruce can do that. He creates and fund a 10 year plan to covert all Wayne facilities to renewable energy. He overhauls all factories to employ the best environmentally friendly practices and technologies. He cuts contracts with all suppliers that engage in unethical employment practices and pays for other to upgrade their equipment and facilities to meet WE’s new environmental and safety requirements. He spares no expense.

Yeah, Wayne Enterprises is so successful that they spin off an entire new business arm focused on helping other companies convert to environmentally friendly and safe practices like they did in an efficient, cost effective, successful way.

Admittedly, investing in his own company was probably never going to be the best way to get rid of his wealth. He slashes his own salary to a pittance (god knows he has more money than he could possibly know what to do with already) and keeps investing the profits back into the workers, and WE keeps responding with nearly terrifying success.

So WE is a no-go, and Bruce now has numerous angry billionaires on his back because they’ve been claiming all these measures he’s implementing are too expensive to justify for decades and they’re finding it a little hard to keep the wool over everyone’s eyes when Idiot Softheart Bruice Wayne has money spilling out his ears. BUT Bruce can invest in Gotham. That’ll go well, right?

Gotham’s infrastructure is the OSHA anti-Christ and even what little is up to code is constantly getting destroyed by Rogue attacks. Surely THAT will be a money sink.

Except the only non-corrupt employer in Gotham city is….Wayne Enterprises. Or contractors or companies or businesses that somehow, in some way or other, feed back to WE. Paying wholesale for improvement to Gotham’s infrastructure somehow increases WE’s profits.

Bruce funds a full system overhaul of Gotham hospital (it’s not his fault the best administrative system software is WE—he looked), he sets up foundations and trusts for shelters, free clinics, schools, meal plans, day care, literally anything he can think of.

Gotham continues to be a shithole. Bruce Wayne continues to be richer than god against his Batman-ingrained will.

Oh, and Bruice Wayne is no longer viewed as solely a spoiled idiot nepo baby. The public responds by investing in WE and anything else he owns, and stop doing this, please.

Bruce sets up a foundation to pay the college tuition of every Gotham citizen who applies. It’s so successful that within 10 years, donations from previous recipients more than cover incoming need, and Bruce can’t even donate to his own charity.

But by this time, Bruce has children. If he can’t get rid of his wealth, he can at least distribute it, right?

Except Dick Grayson absolutely refuses to receive any of his money, won’t touch his trust fund, and in fact has never been so successful and creative with his hacking skills as he is in dumping the money BACK on Bruce. Jason died and won’t legally resurrect to take his trust fund. Tim has his own inherited wealth, refuses to inherit more, and in fact happily joins forces with Dick to hack accounts and return whatever money he tries to give them. Cass has no concept of monetary wealth and gives him panicked, overwhelmed eyes whenever he so much as implies offering more than $100 at once. Damian is showing worrying signs of following in his precious Richard’s footsteps, and Babs barely allows him to fund tech for the Clocktower. At least Steph lets him pay for her tuition and uses his credit card to buy unholy amounts of Batburger. But that is hardly a drop in the ocean of Bruce’s wealth. And she won’t even accept a trust fund of only one million.

Jason wins for best-worst child though because he currently runs a very lucrative crime empire. And although he pours the vast, vast majority of his profits back into Crime Alley, whenever he gets a little too rich for his tastes, he dumps the money on Bruce. At this point, Bruce almost wishes he was being used for money laundering because then he’s at least not have the money.

So children—generous, kindhearted, stubborn till the day they die the little shits, children—are also out.

Bruce was funding the Justice League. But then finances were leaked, and the public had an outcry over one man holding so much sway over the world’s superheroes (nevermind Bruce is one of those superheroes—but the public can’t know that). So Bruce had to do some fancy PR trickery, concede to a policy of not receiving a majority of funds from one individual, and significantly decrease his contributions because no one could match his donations.

At his wits end, Bruce hires a team of accounts to search through every crinkle and crevice of tax law to find what loopholes or shortcuts can be avoided in order to pay his damn taxes to the MAX.

The results are horrifying. According to the strictest definition of the law, the government owes him money.

Bruce burns the report, buries any evidence as deeply as he can, and organizes a foundation to lobby for FAR higher taxation of the upper class.

All this, and Wayne Enterprises is happily chugging along, churning profit, expanding into new markets, growing in the stock market, and trying to force the credit and proportionate compensation on their increasingly horrified CEO.

Bruce Wayne is one of the richest men in the world. Bruce Wayne will never not be one of the richest men in the world.

But by GOD is he trying.

#batman #bruce wayne #laws of this dc universe say Gotham is always a hellcity #and bruce wayne is always filthy rich #bruce wayne is fighting with everything he has against both those facts #he’s not going to win #but he’s not going to stop either #bruce crying with fistfuls of money in his hands: take it. PLEASE #the public: donate more???

[reasonsforhope]

As relentless rains pounded LA, the city’s “sponge” infrastructure helped gather 8.6 billion gallons of water—enough to sustain over 100,000 households for a year.

Earlier this month, the future fell on Los Angeles. A long band of moisture in the sky, known as an atmospheric river, dumped 9 inches of rain on the city over three days—over half of what the city typically gets in a year. It’s the kind of extreme rainfall that’ll get ever more extreme as the planet warms.

The city’s water managers, though, were ready and waiting. Like other urban areas around the world, in recent years LA has been transforming into a “sponge city,” replacing impermeable surfaces, like concrete, with permeable ones, like dirt and plants. It has also built out “spreading grounds,” where water accumulates and soaks into the earth.

With traditional dams and all that newfangled spongy infrastructure, between February 4 and 7 the metropolis captured 8.6 billion gallons of stormwater, enough to provide water to 106,000 households for a year. For the rainy season in total, LA has accumulated 14.7 billion gallons.

Long reliant on snowmelt and river water piped in from afar, LA is on a quest to produce as much water as it can locally. “There's going to be a lot more rain and a lot less snow, which is going to alter the way we capture snowmelt and the aqueduct water,” says Art Castro, manager of watershed management at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. “Dams and spreading grounds are the workhorses of local stormwater capture for either flood protection or water supply.”

Centuries of urban-planning dogma dictates using gutters, sewers, and other infrastructure to funnel rainwater out of a metropolis as quickly as possible to prevent flooding. Given the increasingly catastrophic urban flooding seen around the world, though, that clearly isn’t working anymore, so now planners are finding clever ways to capture stormwater, treating it as an asset instead of a liability. “The problem of urban hydrology is caused by a thousand small cuts,” says Michael Kiparsky, director of the Wheeler Water Institute at UC Berkeley. “No one driveway or roof in and of itself causes massive alteration of the hydrologic cycle. But combine millions of them in one area and it does. Maybe we can solve that problem with a thousand Band-Aids.”

Or in this case, sponges. The trick to making a city more absorbent is to add more gardens and other green spaces that allow water to percolate into underlying aquifers—porous subterranean materials that can hold water—which a city can then draw from in times of need. Engineers are also greening up medians and roadside areas to soak up the water that’d normally rush off streets, into sewers, and eventually out to sea...

To exploit all that free water falling from the sky, the LADWP has carved out big patches of brown in the concrete jungle. Stormwater is piped into these spreading grounds and accumulates in dirt basins. That allows it to slowly soak into the underlying aquifer, which acts as a sort of natural underground tank that can hold 28 billion gallons of water.

During a storm, the city is also gathering water in dams, some of which it diverts into the spreading grounds. “After the storm comes by, and it's a bright sunny day, you’ll still see water being released into a channel and diverted into the spreading grounds,” says Castro. That way, water moves from a reservoir where it’s exposed to sunlight and evaporation, into an aquifer where it’s banked safely underground.

On a smaller scale, LADWP has been experimenting with turning parks into mini spreading grounds, diverting stormwater there to soak into subterranean cisterns or chambers. It’s also deploying green spaces along roadways, which have the additional benefit of mitigating flooding in a neighborhood: The less concrete and the more dirt and plants, the more the built environment can soak up stormwater like the actual environment naturally does.

As an added benefit, deploying more of these green spaces, along with urban gardens, improves the mental health of residents. Plants here also “sweat,” cooling the area and beating back the urban heat island effect—the tendency for concrete to absorb solar energy and slowly release it at night. By reducing summer temperatures, you improve the physical health of residents. “The more trees, the more shade, the less heat island effect,” says Castro. “Sometimes when it’s 90 degrees in the middle of summer, it could get up to 110 underneath a bus stop.”

LA’s far from alone in going spongy. Pittsburgh is also deploying more rain gardens, and where they absolutely must have a hard surface—sidewalks, parking lots, etc.—they’re using special concrete bricks that allow water to seep through. And a growing number of municipalities are scrutinizing properties and charging owners fees if they have excessive impermeable surfaces like pavement, thus incentivizing the switch to permeable surfaces like plots of native plants or urban gardens for producing more food locally.

So the old way of stormwater management isn’t just increasingly dangerous and ineffective as the planet warms and storms get more intense—it stands in the way of a more beautiful, less sweltering, more sustainable urban landscape. LA, of all places, is showing the world there’s a better way.

-via Wired, February 19, 2024

#california #los angeles #water #rainfall #extreme weather #rain #atmospheric science #meteorology #infrastructure #green infrastructure #climate change #climate action #climate resilient #climate emergency #urban #urban landscape #flooding #flood warning #natural disasters #environmental news #climate news #good news #hope #solarpunk #hopepunk #ecopunk #sustainability #urban planning #city planning #urbanism

[soft-star-dubai]

Professional Technical and Landscape Service

Introduction:

Technical and Landscape service www.softstardubai.ae is best company in Dubai.

Dubai known for its awe-inspiring skyline and innovative infrastructure, is a thriving metropolis that constantly evolves and embraces technological advancements. To support the city’s development and maintain its captivating landscapes. Moreover and wide again and range of the Soft Star technical and more landscape services have emerged near too Dubai. These are services play again pivotal role in enhancing urban living and then again by providing state of the art solutions for construction maintenance and green space etc.

Technical Services:

Dubai’s rapid growth necessitates the expertise of technical service providers who specialize in various areas. First Construction companies second architectural firms and engineering consultancies offer their expertise in designing and building iconic structures that define the city’s landscape. In addition from too be towering skyscrapers too intricate urban planning and again these technical

services contribute to Dubai’s unique skyline and urban fabric.

Moreover, facilities and management companies are key players in maintaining the functionality and efficiency of Dubai’s infrastructure important. They provide comprehensive services. Moreover maintenance repairs, and energy again management for residential and commercial buildings, ensuring that the city’s facilities operate seamlessly.

Landscape Services:

Dubai’s commitment to creating lush green spaces amidst its urban environment has led to a thriving landscape services industry. Landscape architects and designers are instrumental in transforming open areas. and parks and gardens into breathtaking landscapes. By integrating sustainable design practices and innovative techniques or they harmonize the natural and built environments. They providing residents and visitors with serene and aesthetically pleasing surroundings.

To ensure the well-being of these green spaces and landscape maintenance companies employ skilled horticulturists and gardeners. They meticulously care for the plants or trees and lawns ensuring their health and vitality. From irrigation systems to pest control, these services maintain the beauty and functionality of Dubai’s green areas.

Best Technical and Landscape service:

 Technical and Landscape service to a range of professional service focused on the design or installation and maintenances of the outdoor spaces and the infrastructure associated with them. These services are essential for creating aesthetically pleasing and functional environments in residential or commercial and public settings.

Synergy between Technical and Landscape Service:

The seamless integration of technical and landscape services near Dubai offers numerous benefits to the city and its residents. Furthermore By combining innovative construction again

methods with sustainable landscape designs. In addition they create too harmonious urban environment that prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality more.

For instance, incorporating green spaces within too skyscrapers not only enhances the visual appeal but also improves air quality and provides a retreat for residents. Next Technical services contribute to the construction of these green buildings. landscape services maintain and nurture the plants within them.

Conclusion:

The availability of technical and landscape services near Dubai. They played a vital role in shaping the city’s infrastructure and green spaces. Finally through their expertise again more commitment too innovation. These service providers contribute to Dubai’s reputation and as a global hub of modernity and sustainable living etc. Moreover as the city and continues too evolve and the collaboration between technical and landscape are services will further enhance the urban experience ensuring a harmonious blend of technology, architecture, and natural beauty.

#Introduction: #Technical and Landscape service www.softstardubai.ae is best company in Dubai. #Dubai known for its awe-inspiring skyline and innovative infrastructure #is a thriving metropolis that constantly evolves and embraces technological advancements. To support the city’s development and maintain it #Technical Services: #Dubai’s rapid growth necessitates the expertise of technical service providers who specialize in various areas. First Construction companie #services contribute to Dubai’s unique skyline and urban fabric. #Moreover #facilities and management companies are key players in maintaining the functionality and efficiency of Dubai’s infrastructure important. Th #and energy again management for residential and commercial buildings #ensuring that the city’s facilities operate seamlessly. #Landscape Services: #Dubai’s commitment to creating lush green spaces amidst its urban environment has led to a thriving landscape services industry. Landscape #To ensure the well-being of these green spaces and landscape maintenance companies employ skilled horticulturists and gardeners. They metic #these services maintain the beauty and functionality of Dubai’s green areas. #Best Technical and Landscape service: #Technical and Landscape service to a range of professional service focused on the design or installation and maintenances of the outdoor sp #Synergy between Technical and Landscape Service: #The seamless integration of technical and landscape services near Dubai offers numerous benefits to the city and its residents. Furthermore #methods with sustainable landscape designs. In addition they create too harmonious urban environment that prioritizes both aesthetics and f #For instance #incorporating green spaces within too skyscrapers not only enhances the visual appeal but also improves air quality and provides a retreat #Conclusion: #The availability of technical and landscape services near Dubai. They played a vital role in shaping the city’s infrastructure and green sp #architecture #and natural beauty.

[reportsofagrandfuture]

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/03/headway/hoboken-floods.html?unlocked_article_code=1.9kw.gbCb.cy56uUXSa4W2

"A study released by researchers for Rebuild by Design and Ramboll, an architectural engineering firm, suggests that every dollar invested in green infrastructure ultimately yields $2 in “avoided losses” (office closures, waterlogged inventories, flooded basements) and other benefits (improved home values and public health) [...] Just days before the September storm, New York’s mayor, Eric Adams, slashed $75 million that had been slated for the city’s Parks Department to deal with a budget crunch. Disinvestment in parks is going to cost the city in the long run because parks are a first line of defense against climate change."

#city planning #resilience #climate change #severe weather #mitigatingclimatechange

[robertreich]

The Dark Side of Sports Stadiums

Billionaires have found one more way to funnel our tax dollars into their bank accounts: sports stadiums. And if we don’t play ball, they’ll take our favorite teams away.

Ever notice how there never seems to be enough money to build public infrastructure like mass transit lines and better schools? And yet, when a multi-billion-dollar sports team demands a new stadium, our local governments are happy to oblige.

A good example of this billionaire boondoggle is the host of the 2023 Super Bowl: State Farm Stadium.

That's where the Arizona Cardinals have played since 2006. It was finally built after billionaire team owner Michael Bidwill and his family spent years hinting that they would move the Cards out of Arizona if the team didn't get a new stadium. Their blitz eventually worked, with Arizona taxpayers and the city of Glendale paying over two thirds of the $455 million construction tab.

And State Farm Stadium is not unique. It’s part of a well established playbook.

Here’s how stadiums stick the public with the bill.

Step 1: Billionaire buys a sports team.

Just about every NFL franchise owner has a net worth of over a billion dollars — except for the Green Bay Packers, who are publicly owned by half a million cheeseheads.

The same goes for many franchise owners in other sports. Their fortunes don’t just help them buy teams, but also give them clout — which they cash-in when they want to get a great deal on new digs for their team.

Step 2: Billionaire pressures local government.

Since 1990, franchises in major North American sports leagues have intercepted upwards of $30 billion worth of taxpayer funds from state and local governments to build stadiums.  

And the funding itself is just the beginning of these sweetheart deals.

Sports teams often get big property tax breaks and reimbursements on operating expenses, like utilities and security on game days. Most deals also let the owners keep the revenue from naming rights, luxury box seats, and concessions — like the Atlanta Braves’ $150 hamburger.

Even worse, these deals often put taxpayers on the hook for stadium maintenance and repairs.

We taxpayers are essentially paying for the homes of our favorite sports teams, but we don’t really own those homes, we don’t get to rent them out, and we still have to buy expensive tickets to visit them.

Whenever these billionaire owners try to sell us on a shiny new stadium, they claim it will spur economic growth from which we’ll all benefit.  But numerous studies have shown that this is false.

As a University of Chicago economist aptly put it, "If you want to inject money into the local economy, it would be better to drop it from a helicopter than invest it in a new ballpark."

But what makes sports teams special is they are one of the few realms of collective identity we have left.

Billionaires prey on the love that millions of fans have for their favorite teams.

This brings us to the final step in the playbook: Threaten to move the team.

Obscenely rich owners threaten to — or actually do — rip teams out of their communities if they don’t get the subsidies they demand.

Just look at the Seattle Supersonics. Starbucks’ founder Howard Schultz owned the NBA franchise but failed to secure public funding to build a new stadium. So the coffee magnate sold the team to another wealthy businessman who moved it to Oklahoma.

The most egregious part of how the system currently works is that every dollar we spend building stadiums is a dollar we aren’t using for hospitals or housing or schools.

We are underfunding public necessities in order to funnel money to billionaires for something they could feasibly afford.

So, instead of spending billions on extravagant stadiums, we should be investing taxpayer money in things that improve the lives of everyone — not just the bottom lines of profitable sports teams and their owners.  

Because when it comes to stadium deals, the only winners are billionaires.

#youtube #video #videos #super bowl #philadelphia eagles #Kansas City chiefs #sports #NFL #politics #scam

[queer-crip-grows]

Right-to-buy council houses without specifically only releasing housing that already had a replacement built was of the most notable ways of the *many* that Thatcher et al screwed the UK.

I’d love to have a law put in place that landlords either have to sign contracts to provide housing under council house-type contracts with rent controls to people on housing benefit etc, or sell to the local council at compulsory purchase prices.

Same for all the houses not being lived in - use to house people under contractual controls, or have to sell to the council housing central fund.

Personally I’d start converting all the office units that are no longer needed because so many people are working remotely now into housing too.

Same for the huge city centre shops - I’m not sure if the pattern repeats elsewhere, but I live near Glasgow and the city centre has basically died since Covid. No one is renting the huge retail stores and the place is full of unhoused folk, which is a fucking scandal. So convert them into housing; let the buildings see use, and let those folks get off the streets. Pets and kids specifically allowed too - get families out of one-room shelters and into proper homes of their own.

I’ve heard that there would be issues putting in water infrastructure, but given the place is literally crumbling already and usage in so many areas is so low that having workers digging up the streets to install water lines wouldn’t cause enormous disruption, the time to do this is *now*. Build rainwater catchment and purification systems on roofs too - we get so much rain in the UK it’s kind of ridiculous not to use it! Some of that could go directly to drip irrigation in gardens, but plenty could go right into the houses/flats too. And of course this would provide tons of jobs in construction, architecture, planning etc etc.

Install gardens and green spaces around the place while you are doing this - offer some at low rent, or to buy cheaply, to market gardeners, but specifically put spaces in for communal gardens with the idea of offering allotments and encouraging people to grow their own food.

Put solar panels on every roof and integrate spaces for smaller wind turbines amongst the houses too. Huge storage batteries in basements to make the new blocks as low-footprint and self-sufficient as possible power-wise.

It would be a *fantastic* opportunity to create genuinely accessible housing - office buildings and shops already have lifts and wide corridors ideal for wheelchairs and other mobility devices, so keep that in the design when creating housing. There is a hidden epidemic of houselessness amongst disabled people and older folk with mobility needs, so create low-rent council housing that specifically fits those needs there.

It would regenerate the areas - all the smaller shopfronts not suitable for housing conversion would fill up with people offering the things people in residential neighbourhoods need, with a guaranteed payer base. People on low incomes *use* all of their incomes on necessities, so small businesses selling those necessities will do well. Offer small businesses low rents to provide those necessities. Any that don’t fill up, offer to charities and use for council staff offering the aid and advice people transitioning into housing actually *need*.

Carers are generally low-paid - so this would be an opportunity to offer them cheap housing close to a huge client base in the new accessible housing. No need for low-paid, mostly-female workers to dash constantly between clients in cars. They could walk to work and walk in between clients, who would also no longer be trapped in inaccessible homes, so people who are not actually bedbound would hopefully be less housebound.

Put rooms in the blocks for communal and co-op activities to reduce isolation - with the lifts and wide corridors, even people who are functionally housebound are likely to be able to make it to a room in their own building, and even quite young children could get to those places safely on their own if their parents are working. Wraparound childcare, paid and informal, near where folks actually live.

City centre areas that are now largely dead other than unhoused people, with limited and decreasing zero economic activity taking place and a decreasing incentive for businesses to set up there rather than in out-of-town retail parks people need to drive to, would become vibrant communities with every incentive for businesses to set up there, particularly for the small businesses that still employ the majority of people.

It wouldn’t take a lot to extend this model to transform those out-of-town business parks that are currently largely empty either; nothing says the businesses that are still there would need to move, and they would have a huge new pool of potential employees living within easily walkable distance, though there would need to be oversight to make sure places like Amazon didn’t attempt to buy them up and turn them into company housing. There would need to be a little more investment to provide green transport links like electric buses and trains so that it would be easier for small businesses to move in to provide services, but given the tax income that would result and the reduction in pollution the investment would probably pay itself back within a decade or so.

#a queer crip grows #housing #housing crisis #solarpunk #solutions #solutions to climate crisis #walkable communities #walkable cities #urban gardening #urban food growing #providing housing #ending homelessness #climate friendly #climate crisis #the future is accessible #accessibility #accessible cities #accessible communities

[sourcreammachine]

ok so imagine if u had this situation

people in the green area would like to cross the river - there are plentiful crossings in the cbd and a few further downstream, but there’s a wide stretch of nothing bar inconvenient commuter rail tunnels

you could just build a standard road bridge connecting the arterials on either side - but that’s a very very bad idea. arterial motor traffic will be attracted and clog the lower-traffic areas. it’s incompatible. a mere pedestrian bridge would be awful value for money - the river is too wide and we need to plug in alternative modes of transport. not everyone is gna want to walk the long-ish length of this bridge

so, let’s build, for example, a modern-style tram system, running down the middle of the boulevardes

it would be pretty easy to make a modern-style tram and pedestrian/cycle bridge. from the middle of the boulevarde, the segregated tramway can turn and leave the road, or even elevate or descend if that tickles your fancy, becoming rails that motors simply cannot go on, preventing them from accessing the bridge. easy as pie

but i’m becoming sceptical of the uniformity of modern-style lightrail tram systems - they’re incredible, they’re worth it, they’re valuable, but their size and cost may be hampering their deployment. i believe smaller, lesser, more classical tram systems are invaluable in complementing the heavier trams - they could be cheaper, they could be deployed far more rapidly, and require far less manipulation of existing infrastructure and construction of new infrastructure, complementing the heavier systems fantastically. essentially - i’m talking busses but plugged in, trolleys 2. for my hypotheticals from here on out, assume the light tram i’m talking about behaves as a trolleybus

so… it’s far harder to segregate a bus per se than a heavy modern tram. they’re designed for the surface streets, where the cars go. all you can really do is put up a sign saying cars are banned, and prosecute the tits off anyone who tries it. one of the only examples of a bus-only bridge i can find is in Perþ, WA - i’m pretty sure i’ve got mutuals out there so feel free to tell me if i’m wrong

this bridge actually crosses a huge freeway intersection - this main road here is feeding into a horrible major freeway brutally smashing its way through the city centre-ish to cross the swan river. those bus lanes, a backbone of these neighbourhoods, need to connect to roads on the other side of the freeway, so, bus-only bridge. motor traffic can happily go elsewhere, with the integrated rapid-transit bus system shaving minutes off its journey times. a win-win under the so-so circumstances of this freeway’s insufferable existence

but… in my scenario, in an incredibly traffic-dense downtown in an area with few connections, with the motors being required to go a far longer way around than other modes - there being a massive, open route to the bridge is just asking to be chanced

if the tramline is in the centre of the boulevarde, it has to turn and cross the busy motor traffic lanes to reach the segregated tramway to the bridge. beyond extremely tight bollards, a lot of red paint, a fucking massive sign, ANPR with heavy fines, and a fucking raisable barrier if it’s needed - how can unauthorised motor traffic be prevented from using the bridge?

it’s easy with heavy trams, that’re hybrids with lightrail. motor traffic simply cannot go on lightrail tracks. without that benefit, if trams were road creatures only, how can a bridge be totally shut off from a thronging mass of motorists fucking desperate to use it?

#196

[dipperdesperado]

The city is where it’s at. Most of the human world lives in cities. Even so, it doesn’t feel like cities are necessarily made for their citizens. From low walkability to hostile architecture to prolonged development, the design isn’t very human. This isn’t even getting into how this impacts the environment and animals. This comes from bureaucracy-laden planning and design, being imparted from the top down. Approaching the creation of spaces for people without those people being involved leads to a focus on capital holders and what they want. If the conversation is between corporations/developers, municipalities, and citizens, citizens are the most important but least considered group in this conversation. That’s why we have shitty cities, rampant with inequity, unsustainability, and destitution.

That all probably sounds pretty bad. Thankfully, the citizen group has the power to come together and make changes with the resources they have available, creating a more liberatory, solarpunk future. This is where tactical urbanism comes in.

“Tactical Urbanism?”

Simply put, tactical urbanism is a grassroots-driven urban planning methodology that centers on DIY solutions and interventions. Instead of waiting for the city to act on a project, the community uses available resources to improve their community’s livability. This bottom-up orientation allows for iteration and experimentation to solve traffic issues, low numbers of green spaces, or general safety. These low-cost, DIY approaches can show interest in certain types of developments, encouraging long-lasting positive developments for the community.

Tactical urbanism can manifest as parklets, extending sidewalks and crosswalks, bike lanes, public art installations, seed bombing, outdoor seating, or more. It’s people imagining what they wish their city/community had and just going out and making it happen. These can be quick to implement, and even quicker to remove or modify as needed. This essentially allows for live pilots/prototypes of initiatives, where people can actually use the emergent infrastructure, encouraging longer-term solutions.

Tactical Urbanism x Solarpunk x Liberation

This methodology fits in well with the DIY ethos and grassroots-centric focus of solarpunk and liberatory movements. Solarpunk is all about imagining the futures that we want to see, full of equity, love, and harmony. Liberatory practices are the approaches that can bring the imagined into reality. As you can probably gather, tactical urbanism is a way to take action toward these goals, creating community-driven change. This allows for community resilience to be built and gives people a sense of ownership over the commons, creating a new world in the current one. It’s like a tiny revolution in the hearts and minds of those who participate.

With a tactical urbanism lens, a community could create community gardens or food forests on vacant/underutilized land. This space could allow for building relationships with each other and the land, grow collective self-sufficiencies, and inspire more change in the community. Not to mention the benefits this provides to the local food system.

How to Start Participating in Tactical Urbanism?

Participating in tactical urbanism can be as simple as identifying a problem in your local community and coming up with a creative solution. Here are some steps to get started:

Hopefully, after reading this you’re jazzed about the little changes that lead to big changes you can make in your own community. If you’re looking to start something, here is a very simple overview for you to think about:

Inspiration → Look for an issue that you could solve using tactical urbanism. Some examples could be a lack of sidewalks, poor access to food, or the myriad of other issues your area has. Figure out the one you’re interested in and start doing research. Find out of similar issues have been solved through tactical urbanism and try to understand what community members think and want as possible responses to the issue.

Ideation → Synthesize what you’ve learned into more concrete ideas on how to respond to the issue. Here you’ll ideate with the community and decide what directions to move forward in.

Implementation → Create a full plan for the project, including what will be needed (budget, resources, timelines etc). Get a team together and implement the project. Celebrate.

Postmortem → Track the success of the project as it continues to be out in the real world. Always gather feedback from the community and compile findings into digestible formats, so you can present them to people if necessary.

Tactical urbanism is cool because it gives us a powerful tool for creating more equitable and sustainable cities. By empowering communities to take action and make changes in their own neighborhoods, we can begin to build a better world, one DIY project at a time. While the challenges facing urban areas are significant, tactical urbanism offers a way forward that is accessible, inclusive, and empowering. You can literally start now. Identify an issue in your community, gather some friends, and begin creating the future you want to see. Together, we can build a more livable, equitable, and solarpunk world.

#solarpunks #solarpunk #social ecology #tactical urbanism #social revolution #guerilla gardening

[unilifeabroadcareersolution]

Benefits of Paid Education in Switzerland

Unilife abroad career solutions

 

 

Switzerland has become a popular study destination amongst international students globally. With the border connection of Germany, Italy and France, the country offers diverse cultural learnings that benefit international students academically and professionally. High job opportunities, flexible learning and elevated academic investments are top magnets that compel the attention of international students.

 

 

 

Switzerland has top universities

Switzerland has some of the most highly regarded universities in the world. The country's top two institutions, EPFL and ETH Zurich, consistently rank inside the top 40 of the QS World ranking universities , with the latter holding a firm place in the top 10.

In the 2024 rankings, Switzerland had a total of six universities in the top 150, which is highly impressive for a country with a smaller population than London.

Tuition fees are low

Tuition fees in Switzerland are some of the cheapest in Europe. Many of the country's public universities charge less than CHF 1,500 per academic year to all students. Of course, the cost differs between universities – with private institutions often charging more – so it is worth checking each one individually.

Additionally, there will be other costs associated with studying. These can include charges for applications and entrance examinations. In general, though, your budget will not be dented too much more by this. As such, you may well be able to save your money to spend on going out, having fun and exploring the country.

There is a lot to see in the country and nearby

 

 Switzerland is home to stunning natural wonders, from the mountainous Alps to the spectacular Lake Geneva by their side. You will never get tired of exploring these places, which offer endless opportunities to experience the country at its most serene, as well as its most dramatic.

 The country is also bordered by France, Germany and Italy. As a byproduct of this, it has four different national languages, and is a hugely diverse place to live. International students are welcome, and in a great position to learn a brand new language – or maybe even a few.

 

 

 

 

 

Switzerland offers great career opportunities

 

Switzerland has one of the highest average salaries in Europe, and some huge companies have offices in the country. So, studying there can lead to some extremely promising and prestigious career opportunities.

Although it can be difficult for non-EU students to get a visa to stay in the country after graduation, it may soon become easier. Lawmakers recently voted in favour of relaxing restrictions on students in this category. If plans are approved, it could become considerably more straightforward for them to work in the country for longer than the six months to which they are currently entitled.

The quality of life is high

Swiss cities are continually ranked among the best in the world for living standards. Although they can be expensive, wages are high and the crime rate is low – making the likes of Geneva, Zurich and Basel some of the happiest places in Europe.

Switzerland also has a brilliant transport infrastructure, making it easy to travel around and get to know your surroundings. Plus, thanks to its abundance of picturesque countryside, even the journeys themselves will be memorable.

Those who love the outdoors will love living in Switzerland. With so many green areas, from the lakes to the Alps, you will never run out of places to visit. 

Unilife Abroad Career Solutions

Contact us : 8428440444 , 8608777070 , 8428999090

Mail ID : [email protected] , [email protected]

#unilife abroad career solution #paid education #unilifeabroadcareersolution #study in switzerland

[reliaabledevelopers]

Reliaable Developers: Exploring Factors that Drive Land Appreciation

Land appreciation, a fundamental aspect of real estate investment, is influenced by various factors that shape its value over time. Understanding these factors is crucial for investors, developers, and people looking to navigate the complexities of land markets and maximize returns on investment. In this blog, we explore the key factors driving land appreciation in a clear and accessible manner.

Geographical Location:

Geographical location is the most important factor influencing land appreciation. Properties located in prime areas, such as close to urban centers or with scenic views, tend to appreciate more rapidly than those in less desirable locations. Accessibility to amenities like schools, hospitals, shopping centers, and transportation hubs also contributes to land value appreciation. Moreover, the availability of natural resources or unique features can further enhance the desirability of a location, driving up land prices over time.

Let's take the example of Reliaable Residenza, a project by Reliaable Developers which is strategically situated near Anugarahaa Hospital, benefiting from well-maintained roads and an upcoming metro line. Additionally, residents enjoy the convenience of markets within walking distance, further enhancing the area's attractiveness and potential for appreciation.

Economic Growth and Development:

Economic factors have a profound impact on land appreciation. Areas experiencing robust economic growth, driven by factors such as job creation, population growth, and infrastructure development, often see significant increases in land values. Conversely, economic downturns or stagnation can lead to slower appreciation or even declines in land values. Understanding the economic trends and forecasts for a region is crucial for predicting future land appreciation.

Demographic Trends:

Demographic shifts play a significant role in shaping land appreciation trends. Changes in population size, age demographics, and household formations can influence the demand for different types of properties. For example, Reliaable Developers focuses on mixed-use developments, combining residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, catering to diverse demographic preferences, and enhancing the land’s appeal to potential investors.

Infrastructure and Amenities:

Access to quality infrastructure and amenities is a significant driver of land appreciation. Properties located near transportation networks, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and recreational amenities tend to command higher prices due to increased convenience and accessibility. Moreover, investments in infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, public transit, and utilities, can enhance the value of surrounding land by improving connectivity and livability. Reliaable Prime City stands as a testament to this, offering a plethora of amenities including jogging tracks, landscaped gardens, swimming pools, and clubhouses, contributing to its allure and potential for appreciation.

Market Sentiment and Investor Confidence:

Market sentiment and investor confidence play a crucial role in influencing land appreciation. Positive economic outlooks, low interest rates, and favorable investment climates can fuel optimism among investors, leading to increased demand and higher land prices. Reliaable Developers' has consistently garnered positive Reliaable Developers reviews and has a track record for delivering high-quality projects that instill confidence among investors, contributing to sustained interest and potential appreciation in their developments.

Environmental Considerations:

Environmental factors are increasingly shaping land appreciation trends, particularly in the context of sustainability and climate change. Properties with eco-friendly features, such as energy-efficient buildings or green spaces, are becoming more desirable to buyers and investors, leading to higher appreciation rates. Reliaable Dollars Colony, for instance, boasts a rainwater harvesting system, showing its dedication to environmental awareness and potentially increasing its appeal to environmentally-conscious investors.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, land appreciation is influenced by several factors, including geographical location, economic growth, demographic trends, infrastructure investments, market sentiment, and environmental considerations. By understanding these factors and their interactions, investors can make informed decisions and capitalize on opportunities for maximizing returns on land investments. Staying ahead of market trends and conducting thorough due diligence are essential steps in navigating the dynamic landscape of real estate investment.

About Reliaable Developers:Established in 1999 by Dr. Rama Reddy and Mr. H.P. Rama Reddy, Reliaable Developers is a leading name in Bangalore's real estate. Led by Dr. Rama Reddy and Dr. Mahendra Reddy, the company blends tradition and innovation. With a focus on BDA-approved plots, they've delivered over 15,000 plots across prime Bangalore locations. Customers often praise the company’s dedication to excellence and its prime locations of BDA-approved plots in Reliaable Developers reviews, further solidifying its positive reputation in the real estate sector. Notable projects include Reliaable Lifestyle and Dollar Colony, reflecting their commitment to quality and timely delivery. They envision a future driven by innovation and sustainability.

#reliaable developers #reliaable developers reviews #reliaable developers plots #reliaable developers ecity #reliaable developers bangalore reviews #reliaable developers bangalore #BDA Plots near me #BDA Plotted development #reliaable developer projects #bda plots for sale in bangalore #BDA Plots bangalore #Reliaable developers Projects

[queerbrownvegan]

In cities, over half of urban lands are paved for roadways, parking lots, or sidewalks... What is Depaving? Depaving looks into removing impervious surfaces made out of either brick, concrete, asphalt, or stone known to prevent rainwater from entering the soil. Because of this, rainwater often concentrates in local waterways and carries a mix of environmental pollutants such as oil, antifreeze, plastics, pesticides, and heavy metals from the roads and sidewalks directly into rivers or streams. Reducing the environmental impact in local communities is essential in the way infrastructure is being developed, so people (rightly) suggest depaving the structures. While sidewalks and roadways are critical for transport they should be reexamined. We need areas to still be accessible to people with disabilities, but we can look into different sectors to depave our areas. For many low-income communities of color, there is already a lack of green spaces available, contributing to the increase in temperatures. With pavement, during the summertime, the heat island effect increases temperature by around 5-10 degrees in surrounding areas, which fuels the demand for energy usage (air conditioning). By presenting opportunities for pavement removal, it can provide some forms of greenspaces with trees and plants. What are the benefits of depaving? Decrease demand for energy usage, cooling of homes by providing shading, visual privacy, and reduction of noise pollution—the restoration of local habitats for birds, insects, and wildlife. Things we should consider: Lack of accessibility of designs for people with disabilities, especially those with wheelchairs which we must champion for those with disabilities to have the right to design infrastructure. We live in an ableist society. Depaving must be done in a way that doesn't perpetuate the issue.

#queerbrownvegan #environment #environmentalism #activism #ableism #accessibility #environmental justice #social justice #social activism #environmental activism #climate change #climate crisis #education #blog #sustainability #sustainable design

[socialismforall]

Free advice to anyone running for POTUS: When they ask you about the $50K you owe in child support & the $500K you owe the IRS, don't dodge the questions. It makes you look ridiculous.

The Green Party US has 10 months to come up w/a better candidate, maybe a labor leader?*

source: https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/green-party-candidate-cornel-west-owes-half-million/story?id=102293692

Additionally, West was spotted this week at the sentencing hearing of Mark Ridley-Thomas, convicted of "seven felonies — bribery, conspiracy, four counts of honest services wire fraud, and one count of honest services mail fraud — in a scheme in which he extracted benefits from USC for himself and his son while on L.A. County’s powerful Board of Supervisors," according to the LA Times, as one of Ridley-Thomas's supporters.

source: https://twitter.com/JonnyPeltz/status/1696245729273254380

source: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-08-28/ridley-thomas-sentencing

For background on Mark Ridley-Thomas, see this article from Knock LA, a grassroots homeless advocacy and support organization featured in our most recent reading, "Infrastructures of Community": https://knock-la.com/mark-ridley-thomas-anti-homeless-camping-laws/ Knock LA reports that, "rather than acting as “champion of the homeless population,” [Ridley-Thomas] acted as champion of homeless policy," and that "Ridley-Thomas introduced legislation for LA Municipal Code 41.18 on June 30, 2021, which bans “sitting, lying, or sleeping or storing, using, maintaining, or placing personal property in the public right-of-way” around transportation structures (everything from driveways to freeway underpasses) [...]. So far, the measure has been used to effectively ban homeless people from taking up space at over 140 sites across the city, with $2 million allotted by the council for the signage alone."

After leaving the courthouse, West was asked why he was supporting an LA politics insider convicted of bribery when his companion shooed the interviewer away, saying they were "putting West's life in danger": https://twitter.com/theveganforest/status/1696290380361162759

As one commenter put it, "Starting to think this Harvard professor-turned-TV gadfly might not be on the level regarding his commitment to left-wing politics."

*There are nine other candidates in the GPUS primaries already: https://www.fec.gov/data/candidates/president/?election_year=2024&cycle=2024&election_full=true&party=GRE

#politics #cornel west #green party #green party us #gpus #green #greens #mark ridley-thomas #homeless #homelessness #housing crisis #president #presidential race #green party primaries #irs #child support #tax #taxes #unpaid taxes

[sqft-2022]

7 Key Reasons to Invest in Property in Kotabagh for Maximum Gains

Are you considering investing in property in Kotabagh? Explore the unique opportunities and benefits of investing in a property in Kotabagh.

Investing in property is not just a financial decision, it’s a journey toward wealth and stability. Explore the unique opportunities and benefits of investing in a property in Kotabagh.

Investing In Kotabagh 

Kotabagh is a town located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The town is known for its scenic beauty and is surrounded by lush green forests and hills. Kotabagh is a relatively small town and offers a tranquil environment for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

The region is also known for its agriculture, particularly the cultivation of fruits like mangoes and litchis. So the majority of land here is agricultural land.

The distance from Kotabagh to Ramnagar is 30 KM. For this reason, it is also a popular tourist spot. As it is a tourist favorite spot, day by day its land values are appreciated. Who would not want to settle in this beautiful place of Uttarakhand? Being a tourist place, many people consider investing in property to be a better option.

Let’s find out why Kotabagh is becoming a hotspot for property investments.

1. Scenic Beauty and Serenity

Kotabagh boasts breathtaking natural beauty. The lush green surroundings, rolling hills, and pristine forests make it an ideal location for those seeking serenity and a connection with nature. Investing in property here allows you to enjoy this beauty every day.

2. Emerging Tourism Hub

Kotabagh is gradually emerging as a popular tourist destination. With its proximity to Jim Corbett National Park, it attracts nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Investing in a property here could provide an opportunity for lucrative vacation rentals.

3. Affordable Real Estate

Compared to major metropolitan areas, property prices in Kotabagh are relatively affordable. You can purchase land or homes at a fraction of the cost, making it an attractive prospect for both investment and personal use.

4. Potential for Appreciation

As Kotabagh gains recognition, property values are expected to be appreciated. Investing now means potentially reaping substantial profits in the future. Also, Improvements in infrastructure, such as roads and connectivity, are on the horizon. This development will increase the accessibility and convenience of the area.

5. Rental Income- Buy Property in Kotabagh

Tourists and nature enthusiasts frequent Kotabagh, making it an attractive destination for holiday rentals. You can earn a steady rental income when you’re not using your property.

6. Peaceful Environment

Kotabagh’s serene environment, clean air, and relatively low population density make it an attractive option for people seeking a peaceful and healthy lifestyle. Investing in a second home or retirement property could be enticing. 

7. Adventure Activities

The region around Kotabagh offers various adventure activities like trekking, bird-watching, and wildlife safaris. An investment in property can cater to adventure enthusiasts looking for comfortable lodging during their explorations. Also, investing in a property that offers easy access to safaris can be highly profitable.

Thinking about investing in a plot of land? Don’t rush into it blindly! Before you make this significant decision, it’s crucial to be well-informed. Our latest blog post, 12 Important Things To Check Before Buying A Plot. Understand the essential factors to consider for making a smart investment. 

Kotabagh presents an opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy a peaceful lifestyle, and potentially secure your financial future. Making smart investments today could result in significant rewards in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 4 types of real estate?

These are the 4 types of real estate properties- 1. Agricultural land 2. Commercial land 3. Farmland  4. Industrial land 

Is there any property available for building a resort in Kotabagh’s main market?

Yes, currently there is a plot of 2700 sqft for sale in Kotabagh in the main market area, offered by Square Foot Investor.

What types of properties are available in Kotabagh? 

You can find a range of properties, including plots, residential land, and vacation homes.

How can Square Foot Investor assist in the investment process?

Square Foot Investor provides end-to-end assistance, from property selection to legal processes.

Are you fascinated by the investment opportunities in Kotabagh? Square Foot Investor, a leading real estate company, specializes in agricultural land, commercial land, and farmland investments in Kotabagh. With a proven track record and expertise in the local market, Square Foot Investor can guide you toward making informed and profitable property investments.

So, why wait? Contact Square Foot Investor now, and let’s commence your journey to a prosperous real estate future.

Invest wisely, invest with Square Foot Investor, and secure your future in the scenic paradise of Kotabagh.

#commercial land #real estate agent #dreamhome #land parcels #property for sale

[archi-tech]

Handling the Heat Part 2: How Masterplanners are Designing for a Hotter Climate

In "Handling the Heat Part 2: How Masterplanners are Designing for a Hotter Climate," published on September 8, 2023, by Anna Highfield, the article delves into the strategies employed by masterplanners to combat the increasing challenges posed by overheating in urban areas, particularly in the UK.

Summary: The article discusses how architects and masterplanners are adapting their designs to address the growing problem of overheating in the UK due to climate change. It emphasizes the importance of masterplanning at a city-wide scale to create sustainable, cooler environments.

Data-Driven Approaches: Ed Baker, a masterplanner from Broadway Malyan, highlights the need for robust data modeling to mitigate extreme temperatures. Singapore's "digital twin" model serves as a valuable example for analyzing urban risks and optimizing infrastructure.

Urban Greening: Urban greening and planned shading are considered effective strategies for cooling cities. Adding vegetation can increase evaporation, reducing temperatures by up to 4.43°C. Examples include Stockholm's "smart streets" and projects in Leeds, Barking, and Croydon that prioritize green spaces and pedestrian-friendly designs.

Cool Roofs: Arup's proposal for "cool" roofs, painted with reflective white paint or fitted with solar panels, is suggested for high-risk areas in London to reduce heat absorption. Green roofs with deep soil, while challenging for retrofits, offer significant cooling benefits by absorbing heat energy.

Architectural Solutions: Anthony Brower of Gensler suggests controlling building geometry, using "umbrella" buildings for shade, and reprogramming facades to reduce overheating risks.

International Examples: The article highlights international initiatives such as Brussels' focus on green streets and Sweden's heat maps, demonstrating how other countries are tackling urban heat islands.

Community Engagement: Brower emphasizes the importance of architects and masterplanners engaging with local communities and policymakers to influence planning codes and regulations as a means to address overheating issues.

The third part of the series will explore UK building regulations and planning codes related to overheating and potential adaptations.

#architecture #climate action #climate crisis #architecture student #architecture technology #construction technology #architecture design #construction #architecture details #architecture drawing #innovation #climate change #climate emergency

[botanyone]

You dont have to lose pavements to grow trees in cities

You don’t have to lose pavements to grow trees in cities https://ift.tt/JYseDm6 A recent study by Arianna Grassi and colleagues, published in Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, investigated the impact of different types of soil sealing on the communities of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonising the roots of two shade trees commonly found in urban areas: Celtis australis and Fraxinus ornus. The researchers found that impermeable pavements, such as monolithic asphalt, caused shifts in the composition of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities associated with the roots of these trees and impacted the percentage of mycorrhizal root length. The research could help protect trees in urban environments. The soil beneath our feet is home to a vast and intricate web of organisms, including arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), which form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots. These fungi play a crucial role in plant nutrition and health, enhancing their ability to absorb nutrients and water from the soil. Unfortunately, urbanisation and impermeable pavement materials have led to soil sealing, disrupting this vital ecosystem. In their article, Grassi and colleagues cite research showing that Tilia, Linden or Lime trees suffer in areas with low fungal diversity. The authors state: “To the best of our knowledge, no information is available about the effects of pavements suitable for water sensitive urban designs, such as permeable and porous pavements, on AMF communities actually colonizing the roots of shade trees.” Grassi and colleagues tackled the problem by examining the roots of European Hackberry and South European Flowering Ash growing in Vertemate con Minoprio, a little way north of Milan in Italy. The trees were planted in 2012, and in 2020, the pavements over the trees were removed. That allowed the biologists to take root samples from the trees and see what fungi had colonised them. Grassi and colleagues observed a fungi community similar to the fungi in the unpaved soil when the root zone was covered with permeable pavements. This provides valuable information that can be used to reduce the disturbance caused by specific types of soil sealing on AMF symbionts, ultimately benefiting urban tree health. The study identified 45 different types of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, with Sclerocystis and Septoglomus as the most abundant phylotypes, accounting for 84% of the genetic sequences revealed. The predominance of Sclerocystis species in the roots of both tree species under impermeable pavements indicated their high and unexpected tolerance towards harsh environmental conditions. These species could be used as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal inocula. Inoculating the soil with these fungi, specifically selected for their proven resilience in paved sites, would allow planners to exploit their ability to boost biogeochemical processes fundamental for energy fluxes and plant nutrition and health. By revealing how different pavements impact the fungi that symbiotically nourish trees, this study provides guidance for creating urban infrastructure that fosters tree health and longevity. Permeable pavements, in particular, could help sustain diverse, robust fungal communities essential for supporting trees in the often challenging conditions of cities. With more trees, cities can enjoy cooling, pollution reduction, and other benefits these fungi-tree partnerships provide.  READ THE ARTICLE Grassi, A., Pagliarani, I., Cristani, C., Palla, M., Fini, A., Comin, S., Frangi, P., Giovannetti, M., Turrini, A. and Agnolucci, M. (2023) “Effects of pavements on diversity and activity of mycorrhizal symbionts associated with urban trees,” Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 83(127916), p. 127916. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ufug.2023.127916. The post You don’t have to lose pavements to grow trees in cities appeared first on Botany One. via Botany One https://botany.one/ April 13, 2023 at 06:19PM

#Botany #Plant Science #Botany One