Sustainability is the goal of many cities and communities today. The ideal scenario is to create a city that can renew its resources and can thrive with little to no need for resources from outside the bigger global community. However, sustainability is more than just running a community with resources that can be used and reused time and time again. Read on to know about the key features of sustainable cities and communities.
Accessibility
Resources are accessible to all in sustainable cities. These include power, water, clean and safe public spaces, public transportation, and all other services that are meant for public use. Public spaces are designed to be environmentally friendly, clean, and safe spaces. Sustainable communities are also able to keep everyone employed. Society ensures everyone has access to jobs and industries that produces a thriving and diverse economy.
Renewable resources
Sustainable cities rely on renewable resources as much as possible. This may not mean that all sources of energy are derived from renewable sources but the city is moving towards this direction starting with the elimination of traditional energy sources like coal and gas. Homes, commercial buildings, and other establishments are powered by energy-efficient systems. Natural sources of energy such as dams and the sun are the primary sources of energy. Sustainability also covers ethical consumption, local food production as well as supply chains that do not unnecessarily waste resources. Urban agriculture supports the inhabitants and is promoted on a per-household or individual scale. Cities built on the sustainable model also implement management policies that require inhabitants to recycle and practice responsible consumption. Programs and infrastructure that minimizes waste and promote the use of waste as an energy source are common in sustainable cities.
Minimal damage to the environment
Sustainable cities are designed to promote high-quality human settlements with minimal damage to the environment. This means that the city promotes and priorities programs that support animal diversity, preservation of native flora and fauna, and overall environmental protection. Policies that aim to protect resources from exploitation are also a priority. Paper-free policies, waste segregation, the use of natural sources of energy, energy-efficient transport systems, and policies that limit industrial pollution are some of the hallmarks seen in communities moving towards sustainability.
Sustainable cities and communities are today’s modern communities. They can survive independently, are designed to exist in harmony with nature, and meet the needs of everyone in the community without harming the environment.
