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Making cities sustainable
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A sustainable city meets people's needs today without damaging the chances of future generations.
What sustainable means
Social: good homes, services and safety for everyone.
Economic: jobs and a strong local economy.
Environmental: less pollution, waste and energy use.
Economic: jobs and a strong local economy.
Environmental: less pollution, waste and energy use.
Sustainable features
Transport: good public transport, cycle lanes, walkable streets.
Energy: renewable energy and energy-efficient buildings.
Waste and water: recycling, composting and saving water.
Green space: parks and trees that cool the city and support wildlife.
Energy: renewable energy and energy-efficient buildings.
Waste and water: recycling, composting and saving water.
Green space: parks and trees that cool the city and support wildlife.
Examples of policies
Congestion charging: drivers pay to enter busy central areas, which reduces traffic. London introduced one in 2003.
Building on brownfield sites protects the countryside.
Bus rapid transit gives buses their own lanes, so they are quicker than cars.
Building on brownfield sites protects the countryside.
Bus rapid transit gives buses their own lanes, so they are quicker than cars.
How does a congestion charge make a city more sustainable?
- Drivers pay to enter the centre, so fewer drive.
- Less traffic means less air pollution and fewer carbon emissions.
- Money raised can fund public transport.
Answer: It cuts traffic and pollution and funds public transport.
Sustainable cities balance social, economic and environmental needs. Key features: public transport, renewable energy, recycling, green space and brownfield development.
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