<Eco-friendly Urban Technology>by Tarek Harb | 04-05-2023 03:56 |
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Urban areas are growing at a never-before-seen rate as the world's population rises. Cities must therefore devise fresh strategies to lessen their environmental effect and improve their sustainability. Thankfully, technological developments are making it simpler than ever for cities to implement eco-friendly practices. There are several urban technologies that can assist cities in lowering their carbon footprint and building a more sustainable future, from green architecture to zero-emission transportation. Green Architecture Green architecture, commonly referred to as sustainable architecture, is a design strategy that emphasizes producing structures that are energy- and environmentally-conscious. Using materials and construction methods that lessen a building's impact on the environment will also cut down on energy use and carbon emissions. Green structures might include elements like green roofs, which absorb rainfall and lessen the impacts of urban heat islands. In addition, they might power the structure with geothermal systems, wind turbines, or solar panels—all renewable energy sources. The World Green Building Council estimates that buildings are responsible for about 40% of world energy use and 30% of greenhouse gas emissions. Cities may dramatically lower their carbon footprint and increase the number of green jobs by using green architecture concepts. Zero Emissions Transportation Another significant source of urban carbon emissions is transportation, which is responsible for around 23% of the world's energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. Cities are increasingly relying on zero-emission transportation options, like electric cars (EVs), hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and public transportation systems run on renewable energy, to cut down on these pollutants. Since their battery range has increased and their price has decreased, EVs have grown in popularity. By 2040, EV sales are expected to account for 58% of new passenger car sales, up from just 2% in 2018, according to a BloombergNEF analysis. Additionally, since hydrogen fuel cell vehicles only release water vapor, they provide another zero-emission mode of transportation. Tokyo and Paris, among other places, have already started using hydrogen fuel. Sustainability in Public Buildings Cities can also implement sustainable practices in public spaces like parks, community centers, and buildings. For instance, parks might include elements like bioswales, which serve to avoid erosion and floods, or rain gardens, which absorb and filter stormwater runoff. Community centers and public structures can have eco-friendly design elements like HVAC and lighting systems that use less energy or passive solar heating and cooling systems. Technologies Using Waste as Fuel Cities that want to lessen their carbon impact also have the option of using waste-to-energy technologies. With the help of these technologies, sewage or food waste are converted into biofuels that may be utilized to produce heat or electricity. This strategy not only reduces the volume of waste dumped in landfills but also offers a renewable energy source. from 2050, waste-to-energy technology might supply up to 20% of the world's electricity needs, according to an estimate from the International Energy Agency. As part of their sustainability plans, a number of cities, like Rotterdam and Oslo, have already started using waste-to-energy technologies. Conclusion Urban technology are playing a bigger role in building sustainable urban settings as cities continue to expand and confront more environmental concerns. Cities may lessen their carbon footprint and build a more sustainable future in a variety of ways, including through waste-to-energy technologies, green design, zero-emission transportation, and sustainable public amenities. By using these technologies, cities may enhance the quality of life for their citizens while simultaneously assisting in the preservation of the environment for future generations. Sources: World Green Building Council. (n.d.). Why green buildings are important. Thank you for taking the time to read my modest report.
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