Urban sustainability Flashcards
Why do we need to plan for urban sustainability?
Cities have issues with lack of space, waste disposal, traffic congestion and huge demands on energy and water supplies
Identify some examples of sustainable urban strategies.
Recycling water. Integrating transport systems so they are efficient and well-connected. Building on brownfield sites.
What is Freiburg?
A sustainable city in Germany. In 1970, set itself the goal of achieving urban sustainability.
What has social planning in Freiburg looked like?
Locals recommend development sites to the council. Locals can invest in renewable energy e.g. in one district, they have invested £5 million in 9 windmills and 8 solar energy systems.
What has economic planning in Freiburg looked like?
Over 10,000 jobs provided in environmental businesses in ‘Solar Valley’. Over 1,000 people employed in solar industry. Financial rewards for composting green waste.
What has environmental planning in Freiburg looked like?
Over 88% of packing waste is recycled. 350 community collection points for recycling. Waste disposal reduced from 140,000 tonnes to 50,000 tonnes in 12 years.
How do we know Freiburg has a sustainable water supply?
Rainwater is reused. Financial incentives for residents who use water sparingly. Green roofs allow water to be captured.
How do we know Freiburg has a sustainable energy supply?
Plans to be 100% powered by renewables by 2050. 400 solar panel installations in the city, including main railway station and football stadium. Biogas heats the city’s three swimming pools.
How do we know Freiburg has planned for green spaces?
44,000 trees planted in parks and streets. 40% of the city is forested. 56% of forests in Freiburg are nature conservation areas.
Why is there a need to reduce traffic congestion?
Air pollution. Reduced business productivity. Greater risk of accidents. Pressure to widen roads.
How is the UK affected by traffic congestion?
Nearly 25% of all roads are affected by congestion. Costs businesses >£20 billion per year. Only 12% of all journeys made by public transport.
How is traffic congestion managed in Freiburg?
Tram network covers 30km. 70% of population live within 500m of tram stop. 400km of cycle paths. Restrictions on car parking spaces.
What have been the impacts of Freiburg’s integrated transport system?
Tram journeys increased by >25,000 in one year. Car journeys nearly reduced by nearly 30,000.
