Everything you need to know about sustainable cities

As more people become aware of the impact we have on the environment, cities across the United States are becoming more sustainable. From implementing renewable energy sources to promoting public transportation and bike-friendly infrastructure, these communities are embracing creative solutions to reduce carbon emissions and protect the health of people and the environment. 

What is a sustainable city?

A sustainable city is one that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens and the environment. Such cities strive to reduce their ecological footprint by minimizing energy and resource consumption. They focus on sustainable urbanism, which encompasses all aspects of urban life such as transportation, energy, and waste management. 

A sustainable city takes a holistic approach to urban development, ensuring that it addresses the needs of future generations. It’s not just about creating an eco-friendly environment; it’s also about promoting a healthy and thriving community. 

6 features of sustainable cities

Here are six key features of sustainable cities, as well as some exciting examples of sustainable concepts in action today.

Renewable energy

Renewable energy is rapidly becoming a popular and viable source of electricity generation worldwide. Unlike traditional energy sources like fossil fuels, renewable energy sources have no negative environmental impact and can be harnessed indefinitely. More and more cities across the United States are now adopting these sustainable and energy-efficient sources, making significant strides towards reducing their carbon footprint and the cost of electricity consumption. 

Examples:

• Burlington, Vermont: As the largest city in the state, Burlington, VT is the first city in the U.S to meet 100% of its electricity needs using renewable energy sources. The city’s main source of renewable energy is wind, which is provided by a wind farm located off the coast of Maine. Burlington also uses biomass plants for heating and solar panels for electricity generation. 
• Austin, Texas: Austin’s goal is to achieve 65% renewable energy generation by 2027 and 100% by 2035. The city has launched several initiatives to achieve this goal, such as the development of solar farms, wind turbines, and energy storage solutions. Austin Energy, the city’s municipal utility, is offering incentives for homeowners, small business owners, and schools to install solar panels as an alternative source of energy. 

Efficient public transportation

Sustainable transportation is essential for the health and well-being of our cities and communities. Public transportation systems are an effective way to reduce carbon emissions, improve public health, and stimulate economic growth. New York City and Portland, Oregon, offer excellent examples of cities that have prioritized efficient public transportation in their efforts to become greener cities.

Examples:

• New York City, New York: NYC boasts an extensive subway system that runs around the clock, providing access to all parts of the metropolitan area. The subway is fast, efficient, and affordable, making it the preferred choice for millions of New Yorkers every day. NYC has also invested in buses that run on compressed natural gas, which reduces the amount of pollution emitted by public transit.
• Portland, Oregon: Portland has one of the best public transportation networks in the United States, including light rail, streetcars, and buses. The light rail system alone carries over a million passengers per week, making it an essential mode of transportation for residents and visitors alike. Portland’s transportation system also prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists, with dedicated bike lanes and traffic signals that give priority to the former.

Green spaces and biodiversity

Green spaces are open spaces in urban areas that help to promote biodiversity, reduce air pollution, and enhance public health and wellbeing. Research has shown that there are numerous benefits for promoting green spaces in cities. 

They act as natural filters for air pollutants, and through photosynthesis they absorb carbon dioxide and other pollutants. They also enhance public health and well-being, which is vital in urban areas, where mental health issues are high. 

Examples:

• San Francisco, California: The Golden City has made significant strides in promoting and preserving its green spaces. One of the most ambitious projects that have contributed to making the city greener is the creation of the Golden Gate Park: a 1,017-acre park in the heart of the city. The park is home to gardens, lakes, walking trails, and a Japanese Tea Garden. Additionally, the city has introduced an urban agricultural program in which residents can grow their vegetables, fruits, and herbs in public spaces. 

• Seattle, Washington: The Emerald City has implemented the Green Seattle Partnership, which is a collaborative effort with local organizations and volunteers to restore and preserve the city’s green spaces. Additionally, the city has implemented the urban forestry program, which aims to plant and maintain trees on city land, right-of-way, and private property. Seattle has also introduced the recommended street tree planting program that seeks to increase the number of street trees to promote walkability and reduce heat island effects.

Waste management and recycling

With the world population growing at a rapid pace, waste streams are also increasing. Cities have a leading role to play when it comes to proper waste management, and there are many ways a sustainable approach can make a difference. Good waste management helps prevent litter and debris from accumulating on streets, which can negatively impact tourism and local businesses. Proper waste management also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as materials are diverted from landfills and incinerators and are instead recycled or repurposed.

Examples:

• San Francisco, California: SF has made great strides in sustainable waste management. In 2002, the city passed the nation’s first mandatory recycling law, requiring all residents and businesses to separate recyclables from their waste to reduce plastic pollution. This innovative approach to waste management has seen the city’s overall recycling rates jump to a staggering 80%, making San Francisco one of the greenest cities in the United States.
• Seattle, Washington: Seattle is another city that has implemented an effective waste management system. The city’s efforts have been driven by its Zero Waste initiative, an effort that aims to divert all its waste from landfills and incinerators by 2030. To achieve this ambitious goal, Seattle has introduced several initiatives, including a mandatory recycling program, composting programs, and an innovative system for collecting and processing food scraps.

Sustainable buildings and infrastructure

Sustainable design in terms of architecture and engineering is more popular than ever before, and it includes several eco-friendly considerations. From reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions to conserving natural ecosystems, green buildings are intended to be holistically environmentally friendly. Two cities prioritizing sustainable building include Portland, Oregon and Denver, Colorado.

Examples:

• Portland, Oregon: Portland has been at the forefront of sustainable building practices for years. The city implemented “the green building policy" that requires all buildings to meet LEED gold standards since 2010. Portland goes further and encourages the adoption of sustainable transportation methods by implementing bike lanes, pedestrian walkways, and transportation systems. The city has also integrated sustainable practices and green infrastructure in all its public facilities, including parks and gardens.
• Denver, Colorado: Denver is transforming an abandoned rail yard into a greenfield project, consisting of parks and green infrastructure. They’ve also created the Green Building Ordinance that requires private developers to build sustainable buildings. Additionally, Denver is working to become a zero-waste community with its comprehensive waste minimization and usage strategy. The city is encouraging the use of electric vehicles while planning to reduce purchases of fossil fuel vehicles.

Community engagement and education

Community engagement is a crucial component of building sustainable cities. When local communities and governments are engaged in the planning and decision-making process, their voices are heard, and their needs are considered. This results in policies and strategies that are more responsive to the community’s needs and are more likely to be implemented effectively. 

Community engagement also helps to build a sense of ownership and pride in the community. When people are engaged in the process of creating a sustainable city, they’re more likely to embrace and support sustainability initiatives.

Examples:

• Minneapolis, Minnesota: Minneapolis has done an exceptional job of promoting community engagement in promoting sustainable cities. They have several initiatives that involve the community in the planning and decision-making process. The city’s comprehensive plan, Minneapolis 2040, is a great example of the local government engaging with the community concerning green efforts. It was developed with extensive community input and includes a vision for the city’s future that is inclusive and sustainable.
• Boulder, Colorado: Boulder has been recognized nationally for its efforts in promoting community engagement in sustainable cities. The Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan includes extensive community input and has a vision for the city’s future that is sustainable and equitable.

What are the benefits of living in a sustainable or green city?

 Living in a sustainable city can offer many benefits, including improved water and air quality, reduced traffic congestion and noise pollution, increased access to green spaces and recreational areas, and improved public health outcomes. Additionally, sustainable cities often have lower carbon footprints and can help mitigate the effects of climate change.

Green cities are becoming the new norm

As we become more aware of the effects we have on the environment (and impending climate crisis), it’s crucial to push for sustainability and join the movement for green cities. From reducing waste and energy consumption to investing in renewable resources, there are numerous ways we can all do our part. Whether it’s through recycling, choosing eco-friendly products, or advocating for policies that prioritize the environment, we can make a difference in creating a healthier planet for future generations to enjoy.

What factors can help build greener cities?

Here are some things that can contribute to the creation of more sustainable cities.

Urban planning

Urban planning plays a key role in building sustainable cities, as it involves designing and developing communities in a way that minimizes environmental impact and promotes social and economic well-being. This can involve creating compact, walkable neighborhoods with access to public transportation, promoting mixed-use development, and incorporating green spaces and public amenities into urban design.

Technology

Technology can play a significant role in building sustainable cities by enabling smart infrastructure and services, such as energy-efficient buildings, smart grid systems, and intelligent transportation networks. Additionally, the use of data analytics and digital tools can help cities optimize resource use and reduce waste, while also improving the overall quality of life for residents.

Individuals

Individuals can play an important role in the advancement of green cities by adopting sustainable behaviors and lifestyles, such as reducing energy and water consumption, using public transportation or biking instead of driving, supporting local businesses and farmers markets, and participating in recycling and composting programs. Homeowners can invest in energy-efficient home improvements and upgrades (they may even get a tax credit for them). 

Additionally, individuals can get involved in community organizations and advocacy groups to promote sustainable policies and initiatives at the local level.

FAQs

Here’s more information on sustainable cities.

What’s meant by a sustainable city or a green city?

A sustainable city, also known as a green city, is a city that has been designed and developed with the goal of minimizing its environmental impact while improving the quality of life for its residents. The homes and structure might also utilize green building materials.

What are some sustainable cities?

There are many examples of sustainable cities around the world, including Copenhagen, Denmark, which has implemented an extensive network of bike lanes and public transportation options to reduce car usage; Curitiba, Brazil, which has a highly efficient bus rapid transit system and extensive recycling programs. In North America, Vancouver, Canada, has set ambitious carbon reduction targets and implemented a range of green building policies.

How can cities become more sustainable?

Cities can become more sustainable through policies such as investing in public transportation, promoting renewable energy, implementing green building codes, encouraging sustainable agriculture, and efficient waste management. Engaging residents and stakeholders to adopt sustainable behaviors and lifestyles is also crucial for long-term sustainability.

What is the Sustainable Cities Program?

The Sustainable Cities Program is a global initiative aimed at promoting sustainable urban development and addressing environmental and social challenges in cities around the world. The goal of the program is to help cities become more livable, resilient, and sustainable, while also promoting economic growth and reducing carbon emissions.

The program is led by the World Bank and works with local governments and stakeholders to develop and implement sustainable policies and initiatives — like promoting green transportation, improving waste management, and increasing access to clean energy.