Gerisa Jeudy
11/06/2024 12:37 PM
City planning and design have a direct impact on both equity and climate change. Effective planning can make cities more resilient to climate challenges, while poor planning often leaves marginalized communities vulnerable to environmental risks.
Firstly, equitable city planning ensures that all residents, regardless of income or background, have access to green spaces, efficient public transportation, and resilient infrastructure. When cities are designed to promote walkability, bike paths, and reliable transit, they reduce reliance on cars, thus lowering carbon emissions. Additionally, cities that prioritize mixed-use zoning allow people to live closer to where they work, which also reduces emissions and enhances quality of life.
Historically, however, lower-income and marginalized communities have been more likely to live in areas with less green space, higher pollution, and inadequate infrastructure. This lack of equitable access not only affects their health and well-being but also exposes them to the adverse impacts of climate change, like flooding or heatwaves, due to less vegetation and poorer infrastructure. Addressing these inequities in city planning and design is crucial for building cities that are sustainable and fair for all residents. When cities incorporate climate-resilient infrastructure, affordable housing near transit, and urban greening projects, they not only combat climate change but also foster inclusivity and fairness.
References:
- Anguelovski, I., et al. (2016). " Equity Impacts of Urban Land Use Planning for Climate Adaptation: Critical Perspectives from the Global North and South." Journal of Planning Education and Research. Retrieved from https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0739456X16645166
- Agyeman, J., & Evans, B. (2003). "Toward just sustainability in urban communities: Building equity rights with sustainable solutions." The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science. Retrieved from https://www.jstor.org/stable/3658544
