An increase in greenhouse gas emissions, pollution, heat waves, stress. In these hard economic times, it has become imperative to adopt sustainable Urban Development or green cities in order to improve all of our health and wellbeing. In the real world, how would this benefit us? You should know these 10 by heart!
10 Benefit of Green Urbanism
1. Reduction of stress
People who live in cities face a lot of stress every day due to noise, traffic, and overcrowding in public transportation. To restore peace and quiet, green city planning reconsiders the use of roadways, bicycles and electric vehicles for transport as they improve the quality of life!
2. Reduction in pollution
As a result of the pollution trapped in cities, people suffer from asthma, chronic coughs, and even cancer. Public authorities no longer have an option but to dedicate public space to plants. They can absorb as much as 5.4 metric tons of CO2 and 20kg of dust each year.
3. Education in biodiversity
Green urbanism introduces vegetated areas to promote biodiversity as a teaching tool. By holding insect hotels and other animal refuges, residents of all ages can become aware of how plants and animals interact, as well as how important it is to preserve the environment.
4. Values of real estate increase
The number of buyers seeking homes close to gardens and parks is increasing. Their prices increase as a consequence! A green space located within 100 meters of a home can increase its value by 10,000 euros, according to Unep. The price of a home can also increase if it performs well in terms of energy efficiency.
5. Managing rainwater better
In addition to its low absorbency, the main drainage system is covered with large amounts of concrete, which makes rainwater harder to soak in. The run-off from upstream weakens the ground and makes rainwater polluted, which requires a heavier treatment downstream. Using plants as part of green city planning is a more cost-effective way to manage this water!
6. Easy to use
Green spaces, whether they are accessible or adapted, have a positive effect on local life, as residents spend time strolling, chatting, and making friends. As the world’s “loners” become more common, the concept of sustainable urban planning is essential for forging communities. Ways To Store Your Goodies and Save Space
7. Better health
Green urbanism not only promotes clean air, but it also promotes physical health (by creating sports fields), mental health (by introducing plants that promote relaxation) and social health (by creating public spaces that facilitate social contact). Discover what the French city of Lyon has done to mix health and green spaces!
8. Food produced locally is being developed
Having no close-by kitchen gardens makes the idea of short-circuit logistics difficult. By combining green spaces and “useful” gardens, sustainable urban planning can be achieved. The bottom of buildings, as well as on roofs and fronts, are being turned into collective kitchen gardens in every city, like Detroit (USA). By growing seasonal vegetables, residents can enjoy the many benefits that plants can provide.
9. Providing social integration assistance
Integrating green spaces into local development schemes can also create jobs and social connections. People with social instability are able to renew contacts with society in these green spaces by learning and doing a valuable, remunerative activity together.
10. Cities with cool vibes
Especially in cities with crowded buildings, heat waves have become more frequent. Sustainability in urban planning is achieved by developing alternative energy systems and developing green spaces.
