Nowadays, more than 70% of all people in Germany live in cities. However, aspects such as environmental pollution and climate change have not yet been optimized. City residents are increasingly complaining about bad air and noise. The green city concept is intended to remedy this.
However, it does not just include the creation of more green spaces. Rather, it is also about climate-friendly transport options and the use of renewable energies. Only in this way can the cities of the future face the challenges of tomorrow.
What is a Green City?
The green city represents a concept in which all aspects that contribute to sustainable and ecological urban development are anchored. On the one hand, it therefore includes green urbanization, for example through greening measures such as the creation of parks or the planting of trees in the urban area. On the other hand, it's about much more!
Characteristics of green cities:
- targeted greening of areas with the aim of breaking up concrete and sheet metal avalanches
- improving air quality and minimizing dirt
- using renewable energy sources to limit emissions
- constructing modern buildings with high energy efficiency and low energy consumption
- creating sustainable mobility concepts with a focus on pedestrian and bicycle paths
Why We Need the Green City of the Future
The level of urbanization is now around 78% and will continue to increase. In the near future, more than four fifths of all Germans will live in cities. For this reason, they are responsible for a large proportion of emissions. In addition, problems such as air pollution, noise pollution and climate change are increasing. This worsens the quality of life in cities.
This also affects the physical and mental health of the residents. Air pollution is now the biggest environmental health risk in Europe and can cause other illnesses. Furthermore, over 75% of all people suffer from the consequences of noise, which disrupts sleep and impairs mental performance.
This is where the green city concept comes into play. The measures contained therein are intended to improve the quality of life in cities. Humans and nature should exist in harmony. When it comes to human health and environmental protection, an ecological city with lots of green spaces and sustainable environmental concepts is essential.
Measures for a Green City
The first step in creating a green city is to create new green spaces that improve the ecological balance and give cities a dignified atmosphere. This can be achieved through the following measures.
- Build central parks and facilities: A beautiful park in the center of the city forms the perfect contrast to the concrete on the streets. In addition, a green space is inviting and offers people relaxation.
- Greening cities: Many cities are already aware of the benefits of trees and plants. Due to climate change, it is necessary to green more areas in order to cool down parts of the city.
- Planting facades: Additional green spaces are created on facades and roofs of houses. This is a great way to break up the boring and monotonous architecture. Green facades also have a calming effect on the cityscape.
- Urban Gardening: Many German residents own an allotment garden outside the city. However, urban gardening refers to gardens that are located in the city center. Local fruit and vegetables can be grown there.
Living in a Green City
A green city should not only enhance the cityscape or promote the quality of air and quality of life outside. It should offer its residents numerous advantages, starting with housing. That's why buildings focus on energy efficiency, which increases comfort but also reduces heat and cold waves. The energy is mainly sourced from sustainable, environmentally friendly and quiet sources. These are, for example, solar roofs that are distributed throughout the city.
In addition, the short distances increase your mobility options with attention to pedestrians and cyclists. All green areas, shops for daily needs, doctors and public facilities are within a short distance. This means that journeys are shorter, the environment is less polluted and the noise level is reduced. It can be said that living in a green city is pleasant, practical and sustainable.
Traffic in a Green City
With the help of sophisticated mobility concepts, cities can meet all the personal transport needs of their residents. The goal is to significantly reduce dependence on cars. Especially during individual transport, they contribute significantly to high emissions and cause noise. Although electric cars are more sustainable, they are still relatively energy hungry compared to walking or cycling.
Short distances should therefore be covered on foot or by bike. For longer distances, e-bikes or public transport options can be used. In a green city, residents can choose between different environmentally friendly mobility options.
