9 The Development of Urban & Rural Sustainable Communities

Question 1

discuss the types of high and low technology solutions that you might expect to see in cities of the future. {12} (6 points)

Answer 1

• More energy efficient – Smart Grid, reduction in usage, less waste from recycling, micro power generation.
• Reducing energy needed to heat buildings – zero carbon homes.
• Transportation – cycling, walking, car share, integrated public transport timetables, greater use of bus lanes, financial incentives, use of video conferencing.
• Water collection – use of water butts, reduction in domestic and commercial water usage by financial penalties / incentives, metering.
• Increasing tree cover – plant more trees, designated green spaces.
• Urban green areas – greater designation of green areas, allotments.

Question 2

Discuss the issues that underpin the development of sustainable rural communities (6)

Answer 2

• The economic cost of linking isolated houses with water, power, waste.
• Application of independent energy solutions using indigenous energy sources, for example biomass, agriculture waste treatment, wind power and small scale district heating solutions.
• Potential for use of local water sources (e.g. local wells / boreholes for non-potable water: reduced need for mains drainage infrastructure).
• Use of small scale waste water treatment solutions (provision and operation of septic tanks): reduced need for mains drainage infrastructure and waste water treatment: reduced occurrence of flooding.
• Benefits of local food production and consumption form environmental, economic and social perspectives (e.g. farmers markets, community gardens / allotments: more income for farmers and local communities; more local employment; reduced transportation and ‘food miles’)
• Impact of communication technologies. availability of high speed broadband; video conferencing; working from home.