What is green city planning, and why is it so important?

Why green city planning?

Cities occupy 3% of the land, consume 70% of the energy and generate 75% of greenhouse gas emissions. In return, cities generate over 80 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP) in many countries and act as engines of economic growth pulling millions out of poverty.

With increased urbanization and changes in the economy, cities continue to expand into new territories, with a huge impact on the environment as pointed out by the IPCC reports. Proactive cities are embarking on ambitious environmental, social, governance (ESG), and economic management goals to ensure that their resources are sustainable and passed on to future generations. The most critical targets are energy efficiency, waste management, gas emissions, and construction materials.

Green City Planning encompasses strategies designed to optimize the use of resources like energy and water, the use of smart building materials, and the reduction of waste. These efforts create sustainable eco-friendly, and biodiverse environments.

The highlights of Green City Planning include:

• Efficient transportation that reduces gas emissions

• Sidewalks and bike-friendly roads as alternative means of transport

• Use of renewable energy such as solar and wind

• Design and construction of buildings that consume less energy and water

• Water conservation strategies and improvement of water treatment plants

• Effective waste management including recycling and energy recovery

Many tools for tracking and sharing city sustainability efforts with stakeholders exist in the market today, here is an example.

Sustainable cities aren’t just a PR stunt for city managers and eco enthusiasts: They are a risk mitigation tool for climate change. floods, heat waves, water supply systems, and infrastructure. Well-designed cities are a great tool to fight the spread of diseases and pandemics and a benefit to all.