Home urban
Showing posts with label urban. Show all posts
Showing posts with label urban. Show all posts

Event - The Sustainability of Delta Cities (Debate)

Add Comment Edit
A debate on the ‘Sustainability of Delta Cities’ will take place on June 4,2014 in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. The debate will look at how we can better exploit what we know about land subsidence in urban areas. The speakers will examine the links between planning, design and construction in delta cities using Jakarta, New Orleans and the Green Heart of the Netherlands as examples.

Delta cities are facing long-term problems such as land subsidence, climate change and rapid rises in the population. Jakarta, New Orleans or Gouda: they can all look forward to major challenges.Land subsidence is a slow and lengthy process that today’s cities are not built to cope with.It is a problem that has not been adequately understood by urban planners, landscapers and architects. For these groups, Deltares will organise a debate on Wednesday 4th June, in the Kunsthal in Rotterdam.

Experts are called in only when the effects of land subsidence become apparent. By that time, the damage to buildings, infrastructure or foundations is already clear. Or flooding may have got worse, and floods be more likely. The cost of all the resulting damage can be enormous.

A debate organised by Deltares will look at how we can better exploit what we know about land subsidence in urban areas. The speakers will examine the links between planning, design and construction in delta cities using Jakarta, New Orleans and the Green Heart of the Netherlands as examples. After a broad description of the issues, the debate will focus on practical solutions. Possible approaches will be suggested for the implementation of measures from a governance perspective.

The debate is part of the IABR in Rotterdam. In the Kunsthal Rotterdam, from May 29 through August 24, IABR–2014–URBAN BY NATURE– presents IABR's projects as well as almost a hundred projects from all around the world – from the very small to the very large. Conferences, plans, movies, infographics, images and models take the visitor on a trip through the past, present and future of our urban landscapes: can we solve our environmental problems by tackling them in the city?

For more information click here. To register send an email to the following address: iabr@deltares.nl city,

Related
Report - Shining Cities: At the Forefront of America's Solar Energy Revolution
Infographic - Green Cities Comparison: New York, Vancouver and Copenhagen
Video - 10 Sustainable Solutions Changing our Cities
Sustainable Cities: Business Opportunities from Resource Efficiency in Urbanization
Sustainable Cities: Oxymoron or the Shape of the Future? (White Paper)
Components of a Sustainable City (Video)
Canada's Best and Worst Green Cities
Smarter Cities' Best Green American Municipalities
The Greening of China's Cities, Counties, Towns and Industry
Rio+20 Corporate Sustainability in Urban Environments
Read More»

Report - Shining Cities: At the Forefront of America's Solar Energy Revolution

Add Comment Edit
 
Environment New York held a news conference on April 13, in Albany to release, "Shining Cities: At the Forefront of America's Solar Energy Revolution," a first-of-its kind comparison of installed solar in major cities across the US. According to the report New York is the 8th largest solar state in the country. The report reviews the impressive growth of solar in New York City and Buffalo.

The report also highlights the importance of strong local policies and programs in the development of a robust solar industry in these major cities, and calls out specific cities from the list of those studied for their implementation of best practices.

Solar power is on the rise across the country. The United States has more than 200 times as much solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity installed today as it did in 2002. With solar module prices coming down, increasing national awareness of solar energy, and a growing legion of solar businesses large and small, solar power is emerging as a mainstream energy solution with widespread benefits for our health, our economy and the environment.

To access the report click here.

Related Articles
Infographic - Green Cities Comparison: New York, Vancouver and Copenhagen
Video - 10 Sustainable Solutions Changing our Cities
Sustainable Cities: Business Opportunities from Resource Efficiency in Urbanization
Sustainable Cities: Oxymoron or the Shape of the Future? (White Paper)
Components of a Sustainable City (Video)
Canada's Best and Worst Green Cities
Smarter Cities' Best Green American Municipalities
The Greening of China's Cities, Counties, Towns and Industry
Rio+20 Corporate Sustainability in Urban Environments
The Rapid Growth of On-Site Solar Energy in the US
Solar's Prodigious Growth in the US
Solar Power's Prodigious Global Growth
The Obama Administration's Support for Solar

The Solar Industry at a Glance: Past Present and Future

Top Twelve Solar Friendly US States
The Growth of Global Solar Energy
Read More»

Infographic - Green Cities Comparison: New York, Vancouver and Copenhagen

Add Comment Edit
Read More»

Kitchener/Waterloo's Climate Change Action Plan

Add Comment Edit
Late in November, 2013, Kitchener city council unanimously endorsed Waterloo Region's first-ever climate change action plan. The plan will reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by six percent from our 2010 levels by 2020. Waterloo and Cambridge Councils did the same earlier this month.

Kitchener has already made important investments designed to reduce environmental impacts. This includes transportation and energy conservation. They also have programs to assist residents and business to be part of the transition to a low-carbon economy. This includes car and bike sharing.

In addition to reducing Kitchener's 3.6 million tonne carbon footprint, these moves are designed to strengthen our local economy. The top 13 projects in the plan will provide $350-million to the local economy and create 5,400 jobs. The net effect of the plan will be reduced costs, increased our energy security and less smog.

The Waterloo region has experienced first hand the exorbitant costs associated with extreme weather events. Two severe storms in the Waterloo Region in July cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. 

Click here to access the full plan and a summary version.

© 2013, Richard Matthews. All rights reserved.

Related Posts
Infographic - Timeline for Cities to be Impacted by Climate Change
Video - 10 Sustainable Solutions Changing our Cities
Sustainable Cities: Business Opportunities from Resource Efficiency in Urbanization
Sustainable Cities: Oxymoron or the Shape of the Future? (White Paper)
Components of a Sustainable City (Video)
Canada's Best and Worst Green Cities
Smarter Cities' Best Green American Municipalities
The Greening of China's Cities, Counties, Towns and Industry
Sustainable Transportation Initiatives in Three Cities
Berkeley's Climate Action Plan
Pittsburgh's Green Economy on Display for the G20
Launching of the New Global Green Economy Index
Urban Air and Water in the OECD Report
Rio+20 Corporate Sustainability in Urban Environments
A New Study Indicates We Are Reaching a Tipping Point
Green Roofs and Storm Water Runoff in Urban Environments
Types of Green Roofs
Renewable Energy Can Replace Fossil Fuels
Potential of Green Roofs in Toronto
Read More»

Event - The 2nd World Intelligent Cities Summit and Exhibition (WICS 2013)

Add Comment Edit
The 2nd World Intelligent Cities Summit and Exhibition, which will be held on the 27th – 28th November 2013 in Istanbul, Türkey. Future development of cities and regions will require the intelligent integration of communications technology, coupled with changing behaviour in how we use this technology, to make our cities and regions smarter and more energy efficient.

This event is designed to help municipalities and regions of all sizes drive innovation, boost efficiency, leverage data, upgrade service delivery and achieve economic prosperity. 

With technological innovations transforming governance, and how citizens, businesses and public institutions interact with each other, it is crucial for you to understand the tools, processes and models required to cultivate “smart” communities and cities. Speakers and attendees in disciplines ranging from science and technology to planning and economic development will present cutting edge strategies to strengthen institutional efficiency, and assess broader commitments to competitiveness and sustainability.

This is the most important forum on a constantly evolving topic. Take advantage of exclusive opportunities to interact with the leaders around the world. WICS will provide key information, structured networking time, and actionable solutions to your most pressing questions. Leave with the best practices and insights for enhancing accessibility and public service delivery through technological innovations. This senior-level conference was developed with the thoughtful input of world leaders. Enjoy an exclusive setting, connect with senior government executives and exchange your successes and challenges while building referrals for your future professional endeavours.

This event will once again gather together city leaders, Government officials, academics, urban service providers and city development experts to share experiences, smart thinking and best practice for implementing the smart cities of tomorrow. WICS is an international platform for the transfer of knowledge, allowing leaders of municipalities to learn from the pioneers of smart city concepts and technologies. The event is unparalleled in the region for its peer-to-peer learning experience and excellent networking opportunities, aiding leaders and key stakeholders of municipalities to develop a secure and robust infrastructure that is fit for purpose for all citizens and achieves a more sustainable future.

Why attend?

•The key summit and exhibition for the smart cities sector
•The 2-day international summit will provide the best industry insights from eminent experts
•The combination of a high level summit and exhibition creates an ideal platform for you to meet the right people face to face

Who Should Attend

2nd Annual World Intelligent Cities Summit and Exhibition provides essential information for senior representatives from industry, academia and policy bodies working in a variety of roles including:

✓ Municipalities (Large and Small) & City administration officials and senior staff

•Mayors,
•Councillors,
•Chief Information Officers,
•VP/Directors of IT, Operations,
•Economic Development, Planning & Development,
•Communications & Engagement,
•Policy Analysts,
•CAO

✓ Technology Providers

•Presidents,
•CEOs,
•VP Business Development/Marketing,
•VP Infrastructure/Public Sector
•Project Directors,

✓ Urban Planners, Architects, Engineering & Consulting Firms

•Principal,
•VP,
•Project Directors/Managers,
•Associate,
•Business Development
•Engineering professionals

✓ Banks, Venture Capitalists, Investment Firms

•Presidents,
•CEOs,
•VP/Director of Business Development

✓ Universities, Colleges, Research Institutions and Labs, Non-Profits

•Executive Directors,
•Professors,
•Directors of Research & Development

✓ Provincial and Ministerial

•Chief Information Officers,
•Chief Technology Officers,
•Policy and Research Analysts,
•Directors of Planning & Development,
•Project Directors and Managers

✓ Technology entrepreneurs
✓ Business strategy executives
✓ IT service and solution providers
✓ Specialized advisors and consultants
✓ Societal change experts
✓ Developers
✓ Utility professionals: Metering, billing, CRM/CIS
✓ Metering Managers, Technical directors of utilities
✓ Real Estate Developers
✓ Network infrastructure vendors
✓ Automation solutions
✓ Telecom operators

To register click here.

Related Posts
Infographic - Timeline for Cities to be Impacted by Climate Change
Video - 10 Sustainable Solutions Changing our Cities
Sustainable Cities: Business Opportunities from Resource Efficiency in Urbanization
Sustainable Cities: Oxymoron or the Shape of the Future? (White Paper)
Components of a Sustainable City (Video)
Canada's Best and Worst Green Cities
Smarter Cities' Best Green American Municipalities
The Greening of China's Cities, Counties, Towns and Industry
Sustainable Transportation Initiatives in Three Cities
Berkeley's Climate Action Plan
Urban Air and Water in the OECD Report
Rio+20 Corporate Sustainability in Urban Environments
Renewable Energy Can Replace Fossil Fuels
Read More»

Video - 10 Sustainable Solutions Changing our Cities

Video - 10 Sustainable Solutions Changing our Cities
Add Comment Edit
Read More»

Infographic - Timeline for Cities to be Impacted by Climate Change

Add Comment Edit
Read More»

Event - 2013 Sustainable Transportation Week Ottawa

Add Comment Edit
The third edition of Sustainable Transportation Week will take place from Monday, September 16 to Sunday, September 22 in Ottawa, Ontario.

Frustrated about congestion in Ottawa? Feel like you’re wasting time and money sitting in traffic every day? It’s time to make your commute faster and more fun!

Coordinated by EnviroCentre in partnership with the City of Ottawa and Vivre en Ville in Gatineau, the goal of STW is to encourage residents of the National Capital Region to walk, cycle, take transit, and carpool instead of driving alone. There are many benefits of sustainable transportation: saving time and money, getting exercise as part of your daily routine, and exploring new neighbourhoods.

Participants in Sustainable Transportation Week also benefit by being eligible to win about $4,000 worth prizes, including:

•a trip for 4 on VIA Rail; •a year of free transit from OC Transpo; and
•$50 at Bayshore Mall or Smakk.ca!

How can you participate?

•Commit to using sustainable transportation at least once by joining our free online contest. It only takes a minute to enter and you become eligible for $4,000 worth of exciting prizes!
•Follow the bike-bus-car race to see which mode can navigate through rush-hour traffic the fastest!
•Learn about how your workplace can benefit from flex-hours at the public conference on work-shifting.
•Participate in the launch of Ottawa’s first Sustainability Tour on September 14th and explore rural and urban sites in the region that demonstrate a commitment to economic, environmental, and social sustainability.

For more information click here.

Related Posts
The Hyperloop: Solar Powered Rapid Transportation
The US Transportation Sector can Reduce Petroleum Use and GHG emissions by 80% over the Next Few Decades
Video - Sustainable Transportation Brought to you by Better Place
Video - Sustainable Transportation Ideas of the Future
Rio+20 Sustainable Transport Agreement
Followup on Sustainable Transportation Commitments at Rio+20
Sustainable Transportation Initiatives in Three Cities
Ten Greenest Trucking Companies in North America
Sustainable Transportation
TOA Technologies' ETAdirect Mobile Workforce Efficiency Software
Trucking Companies Need to do More than Reduce Emissions on the Road
Cardinal Health and the EPA's SmartWay Transport Partnership Program Agency
Read More»

Sustainable Cities: Business Opportunities from Resource Efficiency in Urbanization

Add Comment Edit
The exodus of people from rural environments to the cities continues around the world. There are now 7 billion people on earth and it is anticipated that by 2050 there will be at least 9 billion people, most of whom will be living in cities. As of 2011 there were 3.6 billion people living in cities by 2050 that number is expected to almost double to 6 billion people living in urban contexts. Cities must find ways to deal with this massive population influx.

The question that we all face is how to make urban existence sufficiently sustainable so that burgeoning populations do not outstrip the carrying capacity of the local environments in and around these cities. How are we to provide food, water, electricity, roads, vehicles etc. Nowhere is this problem more serious and more pressing than in the developing world.

Along with these serious challenges come extraordinary opportunities for the business community. Governments may play a role, but they have limited resources and limited capacity to finance the costs of urbanization. The private sector will have to play a salient role if we are to meet these challenges.

In a Harvard Business Review article, titled "Building Sustainable Cities," John D. Macomber presents his research draw from his experience consulting with municipal governments, urban planners, corporations, and entrepreneurs in the United States, Europe, Latin America, and Asia.

He has seen many different business strategies for addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and scarce resources. His experience has shown him that businesses are discovering how to create and claim value by improving resource efficiency to reduce waste, and stretch resources.

He offers a framework that rests on three pillars: new business models that generate profits by optimizing the use of resources; financial engineering that encourages investments in efficiency, and careful selection of markets.

investments in resource efficiency is not only about enhancing a given city it is also about generating value for companies over the long term.

Macomber explains that “financial engineering” applies to the use of algorithms to create trading strategies. But in this article he uses the term to refer to "a general set of financing and capital structure strategies for companies and projects."

This includes everything from taxes, bonds, interest rate swaps; contributions of land in exchange for bonds, debt instruments, or stock; vendor financing for future considerations; and equity in the promoter, the operator, and the engineering firm.

"This approach is designed to attract more capital to the project by offering different levels of risk and return, different cash-flow priorities, and opportunities for both short-term and long-term investors. When governments are “stuck” and can’t deliver core infrastructure, these techniques are particularly useful." Macomber says.

"Otherwise it can be hard to match the cost of the initial resource-efficiency investment with the extensive and very widely distributed benefits that are realized in the long run."

According to Macomber, water, electricity, and transit projects deserve the greatest focus.

To assess the efficiency opportunity lies look at resource-efficiency initiatives in terms of both technology and finance. Then look at the products and services that new cities will require, and that provide the return investors and entrepreneurs need, optimize both.

Using these dimensions a company can assess its offerings on what he terms an “efficiency matrix.” (Technological sophistication increases from left to right, while financial sophistication increases from bottom to top.).

In this matrix a company’s resource-efficiency products and services can be plotted according to how sophisticated they are financially and technologically.

As sophistication increases, offerings approach the efficiency frontier at the perimeter of the matrix.

For more information on the Efficiency Matrix click here to see a narrated infographic.

© 2013, Richard Matthews. All rights reserved.

Related Posts
Sustainable Cities: Oxymoron or the Shape of the Future? (White Paper)
Components of a Sustainable City (Video)
Canada's Best and Worst Green Cities
Smarter Cities' Best Green American Municipalities
The Greening of China's Cities, Counties, Towns and Industry
Sustainable Transportation Initiatives in Three Cities
Berkeley's Climate Action Plan
Urban Air and Water in the OECD Report
Rio+20 Corporate Sustainability in Urban Environments
Renewable Energy Can Replace Fossil Fuels
Potential of Green Roofs in Toronto
Read More»

Event - Smart to Future Cities 2013

Add Comment Edit
The second annual Smart to Future Cities event will take place on June 11 and 12, 2013. Too many smart city conferences do not distinguish between what is possible in developed countries as opposed to emerging economies. Equally many focus on a futurist vision of what may be possible in the future and not what we can do now. This is often compounded by not giving enough emphasis on the practical roadmap to implementing a future city and how you measure success.

Over 80 international case studies from government, energy, healthcare, transport, retail and building control will define the working business models which are creating future Cities successes for citizens and enterprises alike; fully integrated, strategically-designed development programs with measurable results.

IN 2012, we heard from CxO strategic thought leaders from the European Commission, Barcelona City Council, Orange, Singtel, IBM, LivingPLanIT, Telefonica Digital, Amsterdam Innovation Motor, NHS, United Healthgroup and more. We also welcomed The UK Government, the Urban Land Institute and industry leading analysts among many others.

IN 2013, we welcome back industry leaders and introduce a comprehensive programme building on our belief that no one vertical can make this market . Therefore we will be covering all of the ICT/Telco enabler platforms and technologies that are changing our interaction with the world around us, customer interaction more efficient, cost effective and more valuable. In addition, we look at the role of other verticals such as FS, Utilities, Developers and BIM (Building Information Management) in the future city arena.

Ensure the competitiveness and collaborative potential of your community in a competitive environment, as part of the new Smart world. Join the many 1:1 discussion sessions, leading CxO keynotes and business catalyst features in this unique meeting of minds in 2013.

For more information or to register click here.

Related Posts
Smarter Cities' Best Green American Municipalities
Canada's Best and Worst Green Cities
Sustainable Cities: Oxymoron or the Shape of the Future? (White Paper)
Components of a Sustainable City (Video)
The Greening of China's Cities, Counties, Towns and Industry
Sustainable Transportation Initiatives in Three Cities
Berkeley's Climate Action Plan
Pittsburgh's Green Economy on Display for the G20
Launching of the New Global Green Economy Index
Urban Air and Water in the OECD Report
Rio+20 Corporate Sustainability in Urban Environments
Read More»

Event - Green Roof Professional (GRP) Accreditation Training Program

Add Comment Edit
Green Roof Professional (GRP) Accreditation Training Program with take place on Feb 21 to Feb 24, 2013, in Toronto, Ontario.

Green Roof Design 101: Introductory Course will take place on February 21st, 2013. This introductory training course on green roof infrastructure design presents many of the tools and techniques needed to meet your green roof project objectives on schedule, to specification, and within budget.

Green Roof Infrastructure: Design & Installation 201 Friday, February 22nd, 2013 An immensely practical course that provides participants with in-depth information on the multitude of green roof implementation issues from first client meetings through scheduling, insurance and permit issues, site analysis, construction considerations and more.

Green Roof Waterproofing and Drainage 301 Saturday, February 23rd, 2013 This course will provide participants with an overview of waterproofing and drainage construction and maintenance for green roof assemblies. It lays out technical vocabulary and materials and presents detailed design solutions and implementation best management practices for waterproofing and drainage in green roofs.

Green Roof Plants and Growing Media 401 Sunday, February 24th, 2013 This course will provide participants with an overview of plants and growing media design considerations and maintenance for green roof assemblies. It establishes design and implementation best management practices for plants and growing media in green roofs. Space is limited. Reserve your seat now.

Tours:Tours of local projects will be offered in conjunction with this event.

Tuition:Tuition for each course is $399 CDN + HST, or $374 CDN + HST for GRHC Individual Members. Tuition includes course materials, lunch, and refreshments. If paying by cheque, please note it must be received in our office no later than one week before the event.

Continuing Education Credits:Green Roofs for Healthy Cities is an approved continuing education provider with GBCI, AIA CES, LA CES, RCI, APLD, and CNLA (for Landscape Industry Certified credits).

For more information click here or contact Tamara Lee by phone 416-971-4494 ext 228 orE-mail: tlee(at)greenroofs.org

Related Posts
Benefits of Green Roofs
Types of Green Roofs
Green Roofs and Storm Water Runoff
The Green Roof Industry is Growing Fast
The Benefits of Cool Roofs
Cool Roofs from Energy 101 (Video)
Cool Roof Research from the University of Melbourne (Video)
Cool Roofs Reduce Emissions and Save Energy (Video)
The Cool Roof Project (Video)
The Effectiveness of Cool Roofs in Hot and Cold Climates
20 Cool Roof Resources from the CRRC and Other Sources
Cool Roofs Savings Calculators
Three Types of Cool Roofs
Read More»

Event - Sustainable Communities Conference and Trade Show

Add Comment Edit
The Sustainable Communities Conference and Trade Show will take place on Feb 13 - 15, 2013 at the Caesars Windsor, Windsor Essex, Ontario.

Hundreds of cities and communities across Canada are leading the charge towards local sustainability and the shift to a green economy. Every year, they come together to share their experiences and discuss the latest strategies for sustainable community development.

Be part of this exciting forum for municipal sustainability champions. Attend the 2013 Sustainable Communities Conference (SCC) and Trade Show hosted by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. Themes and Streams for 2013

This year's conference theme, "Building Blocks for the Next Generation", focuses on best practices in sustainable development from a wide range of Canadian communities and regions, and highlights innovative projects. Sustainable communities are built upon sustainable infrastructure, including high-efficiency facilities; leadership to envision and implement change; the skills to manage physical and human assets; and a willingness to test and develop new technologies.

This year's Conference will explore three content streams:

1. The Culture of Leadership: Share examples of how leadership can effect changes in policy, process, scope, timelines, or partners, in the pursuit of local sustainable development. We encourage profiles of leadership driven by diverse stakeholders-including mayors, councillors, municipal staff, community groups, residents, businesses, etc.-that have increased citizen engagement, reached new constituencies, improved efficiency in managing public assets, and demonstrated new approaches to sustainable development.

2. Sustainable Infrastructure: Demonstrate viable options for building, retrofitting, repairing and maintaining infrastructure, to help it last longer while reducing its environmental impact and fostering sustainable living. We encourage examples that account for cost over the full lifecycle of the investment.

3. Innovation and Technology: Introduce new technologies and innovative approaches to advance sustainability in changing times. We invite demonstrations of technology in action, focusing on prototypes, pilot programs and applications that have been tested in a Canadian municipality. We encourage municipal practitioners and partners to share examples of innovation through processes, technologies and approaches that advance sustainability.

Why attend

Whether you're planning or have already begun your journey to a sustainable community, the SCC will help to put you on the fast-track to successful project design, implementation and cost recovery.

Gain insight into the latest trends on sustainable development Discover best practices for making communities more socially, ecologically and economically vibrant Network with other municipalities and sustainability experts from across Canada See leading-edge green products and services in the Trade Show

Who attends

The SCC brings together mayors, councillors, alderman/women, municipal staff, federal and provincial representatives, and private sector and not-for-profit sustainability professionals. More than 450 are expected for the 2013 conference. Why Hold the Sustainable Communities Conference in Windsor?

Windsor is a community in transition. As manufacturing declined, Windsor began a journey of renewal and economic transition. Applying expertise developed over decades of making automobiles, Windsor's companies have begun manufacturing solar panels, wind turbines and biomass generators. The City is also rehabilitating ecosystems degraded by earlier industrial practices. Through site visits and study tours, Windsor-Essex will showcase several of its green initiatives.

For more information click here.

Related Posts
Components of a Sustainable City (Video)
Canada's Best and Worst Green Cities
Smarter Cities' Best Green American Municipalities
The Greening of China's Cities, Counties, Towns and Industry
Sustainable Transportation Initiatives in Three Cities
Berkeley's Climate Action Plan
Pittsburgh's Green Economy on Display for the G20
Launching of the New Global Green Economy Index
Urban Air and Water in the OECD Report
Rio+20 Corporate Sustainability in Urban Environments
A New Study Indicates We Are Reaching a Tipping Point
Green Roofs and Storm Water Runoff in Urban Environments
Types of Green Roofs
Renewable Energy Can Replace Fossil Fuels
Potential of Green Roofs in Toronto
Read More»

ICUSR 2012 : International Conference on Urban Regeneration and Sustainability (Event)

Add Comment Edit
This event will take place in Bangkok, Thailand on December 22-23, 2012. The XXXIII. International Conference on Urban Regeneration and Sustainability aims to bring together leading academic scientists, researchers and scholars to exchange and share their experiences and research results about all aspects of Urban Regeneration and Sustainability, and discuss the practical challenges encountered and the solutions adopted.
The International Refereed Conference Proceedings will be blind peer reviewed by three competent reviewers. The conference proceedings book & CD and certificate presentation will be distributed to the conference participants at the conference registration desk.

For more information click here.

Related Articles
Components of a Sustainable City (Video)
Canada's Best and Worst Green Cities
Smarter Cities' Best Green American Municipalities
The Greening of China's Cities, Counties, Towns and Industry
Sustainable Transportation Initiatives in Three Cities
Berkeley's Climate Action Plan
Pittsburgh's Green Economy on Display for the G20
Launching of the New Global Green Economy Index
Urban Air and Water in the OECD Report
Rio+20 Corporate Sustainability in Urban Environments
A New Study Indicates We Are Reaching a Tipping Point
Green Roofs and Storm Water Runoff in Urban Environments
Types of Green Roofs
Renewable Energy Can Replace Fossil Fuels
Potential of Green Roofs in Toronto
Read More»

Canada's Best and Worst Green Cities

Add Comment Edit
According to a 2011 index sponsored by Siemens, Vancouver is the greenest city in Canada and Montreal is the least green. The index measured and rated the environmental performance of 27 cities in the US and Canada in nine categories: CO2, energy, land use, buildings, transport, water, waste, air and environmental governance. The index was a project run by the Economist Intelligence Unit, an in-house research unit of the British magazine The Economist. Cities were selected independently rather than through requests from city governments to be included. A panel of global experts in urban environmental sustainability advised the unit in developing methodology for the index.

Vancouver was second overall and first in Canada. Vancouver landed in the top 10 in each of the nine individual categories, ranking first among all cities with the lowest carbon dioxide emissions and best air quality.

Toronto placed ninth overall and second in Canada. The city earned a fourth-place ranking overall in the waste category, the city has a 44 per cent recycling rate which is well above the 26 per cent average. Other waste related initiatives for the city include composting, waste separation and volume-based trash payment, and a public awareness campaign.

Ottawa was twelfth overall and third in Canada. The national capital ranked third in land use and the city boasts the highest percentage of green space in the index.

Calgary was fourteenth overall and fourth in Canada. Calgary was the best on the list in the water category. The city consumes 428 liters of water per person per day compared to the index average of 587. Calgary was also noted for its waste water management.

Montreal was nineteenth overall and last amongst Canada's major cities. Although the city took the fourth overall spot in the transport category with its public transit system deemed one of the best. The report indicated that Montreal has second highest share of non-automobile commuters. Some 29 per cent of workers commute by public transit, bicycle, or on foot — more than double the index average. Montreal scores well in transportation due in part to its cycling infrastructure. Montreal also has low per-capita carbon dioxide emissions due to its reliance on hydro power. However, the city is weak in green building and environmental certification. Montreal has among the fewest per-capita LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-certified green buildings in the index; we use more energy per capita than the index average; and the carbon and energy efficiency of our local economy is abysmal. For every dollar of local gross domestic product, Montreal uses almost three times more energy than the index average.

© 2012, Richard Matthews. All rights reserved.

Related Posts
Canada's Green Provincial Report Card
Canada's Clean 50 from Delta Management Group
Best CSR Business Rankings from Miratel Blog
Top Canadian Corporate Citizens (2012)
Canada's Greenest Companies (2011)
Canada's Most Sustainable Businesses (2009)
Canada's GHG Rankings
Canada is a World Leader in GHG Emissions
WWF's Canadian Living Planet Report
The State of Canada's Environment
Canadians Support Efforts to Combat Climate Change
Canadian Government at Odds with the Public on Climate Change
Conservatives Ignore Canadians While Jeopardizing the Environment and the Economy
Canada on Track to be a Dirty Energy Superpower
Read More»

The Mediterranean City Conference: An Integrated Approach to Climate Change Adaptation (Event)

Add Comment Edit
On June 25-27, 2012 at the Sheraton Downtown, Los Angeles an event will be taking place on Mediterranean cities and climate change. Although countries across the Mediterranean regions may have differing developmental priorities, the urban centers face similar challenges. The Mediterranean City Consortium will work to collaborate and develop integrated climate change adaptation strategies and seek to share resources, technology and information for regionally relevant responses.

The Mediterranean City Conference will address the integrated issues common to Mediterranean cities with workgroups gathered around the following six interrelated topics:

• Water: Resilient Water Management Strategies for a Changing Climate
• Energy: Transitioning to an Energy Efficient and Low Carbon Future
• Biodiversity and Open Space: Building an Ecological City
• The Built Environment: Designing Healthier Communities
• Public Health: Preparing People for Their Future
• Governance: Rethinking Boundaries Join us and contribute your expertise to the discussion about climate change adaptation strategies.

For more information and to register click here.

© 2012, Richard Matthews. All rights reserved.
Read More»
Subscribe to: Posts ( Atom )