Urban Sustainability

Definition of Sustainability

• General Concept: A society's ability to meet the needs of current generations without hindering future generations' ability to meet theirs.
• Urban Sustainability: Refers to creating urban environments that promote economic, social, and environmental growth sustainably.

Key Aspects of Urban Sustainability

Economic Sustainability

• Encourages economic growth accessible to all residents.
• Reduces negative environmental impacts.
• Supports small businesses and local development.

Social Sustainability

• Ensures safe, inclusive communities.
• Provides access to affordable housing, education, and healthcare.

Environmental Sustainability

• Utilizes urban planning to create sustainable cities.
• Aims to maintain a high standard of living without compromising the future.

Sustainable Urban Design Initiatives

Zoning Policies

• Incorporates mixed land use developments.
• Promotes neighborhoods where residents can work, live, and play in one area.

Walkable Cities

• Design cities to reduce driving time.
• Encourage walking or biking.

Smart Growth Policies

• Promote compact, walkable urban areas.
• Limit urban sprawl by creating green belts.

Transit-Oriented Development

• Encourages development near public transport.
• Decreases traffic and increases public transit use.

Concepts and Policies

Smart Growth vs. New Urbanism

• Smart Growth: Focuses on keeping urban areas compact and preventing sprawl.
  • Example: Greenbelts like those in London and Tokyo.
• New Urbanism: Emphasizes architecture and community design.
  • Creates self-contained, pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.

Criticisms and Challenges

Impact on Housing Costs

• Urban improvements can increase housing costs.
• Potential for de facto segregation due to economic displacement.

Gentrification

• Affluent residents displacing lower income residents.
• Can lead to cultural and community loss.

Slow Growth Cities

• Limit growth pace and promote infill development.
• Encourage public transport, reduce vehicle reliance.

Smart Cities

• Utilize technology and data for efficiency.
• Promote local food production and renewable energy.
• Implement smart systems for traffic and resource management.

Conclusion

• Urban sustainability is evolving, affecting landscapes and communities.
• Continued focus on balancing growth with sustainability.

Additional Resources

• Mr. Sin's Channel: For more insights and resources on urban sustainability and AP Human Geography studies.