Sustainable Urbanization
From Desolation to Innovation: The Joint Research Centre’s Cutting-Edge Sustainable Building
The European Commission is building a sustainable, innovative Joint Research Centre (JRC) in Seville, Spain, designed to fully offset its CO2 emissions. Featuring a solar-panel domed roof, the building will transform the La Cartuja area into a vibrant cultural hub. The JRC building joins Seville’s growing collection of sustainable architectural projects, like the Metropol Parasol, contributing to the city’s modernization, carbon reduction, and cultural appeal.
Read MoreFrom Desolation to Innovation: The Joint Research Centre’s Cutting-Edge Sustainable BuildingPedal Smarter: The Ultimate Guide to Cycling Apps.
Cycling has become a popular and sustainable way to stay fit, reduce carbon emissions, and explore new areas. With the rise of technology, cyclists now have access to a variety of apps designed to enhance their experience. This article provides an overview of some of the best cycling apps available, including tools for tracking rides, creating routes, and connecting with other cyclists. These apps cater to cyclists of all levels and preferences, offering everything from performance tracking to route planning and social engagement.
Read MorePedal Smarter: The Ultimate Guide to Cycling Apps.Sponge City: A Sustainable Solution to Urban Water Management.
The article explores the concept of “sponge cities” as a sustainable solution to urban water management amidst increasing global urbanization and climate change. Sponge cities use a combination of natural and engineered infrastructure, such as permeable surfaces, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting, to absorb, store, and reuse rainwater. This approach aims to reduce flooding, conserve water, and promote biodiversity while improving air quality and climate resilience. The article highlights successful global examples and discusses the challenges and future outlook for implementing sponge city principles worldwide.
Read MoreSponge City: A Sustainable Solution to Urban Water Management.On Two Wheels Toward a Sustainable Future.
The article focuses on bicycles as a vital tool for sustainable mobility, offering health, environmental, and traffic benefits. With over 1 billion bicycles globally, they help reduce carbon emissions and congestion. The bicycle market, especially e-bikes, is expanding, with innovations in eco-friendly materials further reducing environmental impact. As cities invest in cycling, bicycles play a vital role in creating greener, healthier urban environments.
Read MoreOn Two Wheels Toward a Sustainable Future.NIMBY – Not In My Backyard
The “Not In My Backyard” (NIMBY) phenomenon reflects local opposition to projects affecting nearby areas. While it encourages civic debate, it can delay important initiatives due to distrust and emotional responses. NIMBY is a key aspect of democratic decision-making.
Read MoreNIMBY – Not In My BackyardCities and Climate Action. World Cities Report 2024
UN-Habitat has released a report examining the connection between urban growth and climate change. The report states that “the fight against climate change and the struggle to achieve more sustainable and equitable urbanization are two sides of the same coin.”…
Burgas Is at the Top of Smart Urban Development
This article highlights Burgas as a leader in smart city development in Bulgaria. Despite uneven use of smart technologies across the country, Burgas excels with eco-friendly mobility, digital platforms, and sustainability initiatives. Its participation in international networks like “Sharing Cities” and the Green City Accord supports its progress. While challenges remain, Burgas is advancing toward a smart, sustainable future.
Read MoreBurgas Is at the Top of Smart Urban DevelopmentStruggles in Smart Cities Development in the Western Balkans: Key Factors and Statistics
This article examines the challenges of smart city development in the Western Balkans, including financial constraints, outdated infrastructure, and a shortage of skilled workers. Governance issues, public skepticism, and environmental concerns also hinder progress. The region requires comprehensive strategies, investment, and collaboration to overcome these obstacles and ensure equitable, sustainable urban growth.
Read MoreStruggles in Smart Cities Development in the Western Balkans: Key Factors and StatisticsSmart Technologies in Pancevo: Innovation and the Struggles of Maintenance
The article explores the adoption of smart technologies aimed at enhancing urban life in Pancevo, Serbia. While these innovations offer great potential, the city faces significant challenges in maintaining and upgrading them. The article examines both the successes and struggles of these technologies, offering valuable insights into the broader challenges faced by cities in the Western Balkans.
Read MoreSmart Technologies in Pancevo: Innovation and the Struggles of MaintenanceOrdos “Ghost City”: Navigating the Pitfalls of New City Development
Imagine a city built from scratch, with grand boulevards, futuristic architecture, and luxury homes—yet eerily empty. This is Ordos, China that began as a bold vision for urban transformation but quickly became a cautionary tale of overambition, speculative development, and the unpredictable forces of market economics. What went wrong? And how has Ordos managed to turn its story around, slowly finding new life amid its vast, empty streets? Writing about Ordos offers a unique lens on the complexities of modern city-building, the pitfalls of rapid urbanization, and the resilience required to reinvent a failed dream.
Read MoreOrdos “Ghost City”: Navigating the Pitfalls of New City Development