The built environment industry needs to adapt to climate change.
Climate change is becoming increasingly tangible, and as our cities grow denser, the need to integrate nature into urban development becomes ever more vital.
Green infrastructure is a concept that has gained increased attention in urban planning—serving as both a guiding principle and a tool to address challenges associated with balancing urban development and environmental considerations.
In this article, we explore how green infrastructure can be integrated into construction and development projects, its benefits, and the challenges urban planners may face.
Green infrastructure means incorporating nature into construction and development projects, as opposed to traditional grey infrastructure made entirely of concrete, asphalt, and similar materials.
Natural elements are incorporated right from the start of the design stage, through parks, rain gardens, green roofs, wetlands, and green corridors—all designed to protect biodiversity and improve the quality of life for people, animals, and plants.
Did you know that only 7% of urban planners & civil engineers prioritize sustainability as an important preference in their work life?
More people are driven by personal benefits than the bigger picture, indicating that we need to better prioritize environmental issues at a higher level when it comes to construction and urban planning.
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The construction & engineering industry are facing significant impacts from the green transition and must rethink their strategies on multiple fronts. This comes with a set of challenges: a more complex planning process that requires in-depth knowledge of both ecological and technical aspects, as well as collaborations with experts in landscape architecture, environmental science, and hydrology, will be needed.
The initial cost of green solutions can be higher than traditional alternatives, which may deter investors and decision-makers. Also, the lack of clear guidelines and standards for green infrastructure can complicate integration and demand increased collaboration with local authorities to develop and adapt regulations.
But despite these challenges, the benefits are numerous:
Green infrastructure is crucial for adapting to climate change. It helps reduce the risk of flooding, combats urban heat islands, and lowers energy consumption. Take, for example, green roofs and walls: they have the ability to absorb rainwater, reducing pressure on drainage systems and helping to regulate building temperatures.
Access to green spaces has been shown to positively impact both the mental and physical health of humans and other living beings. Green infrastructure enables recreation, reduces air pollution, and creates natural meeting places that foster social connections.
Urban development projects that incorporate green infrastructure are shown to be more economically sustainable over time. These initiatives help increase property values, reduce operating costs, and create attractive environments that draw businesses and residents alike.
Hammarby Sjöstad in Stockholm, Sweden, stands as an excellent example of how green infrastructure can be woven into built environment projects.
This area has been designed with a strong focus on sustainability, where rainwater is managed through open drainage systems, green roofs improve energy performance, and parks and green corridors create a harmonious and healthy environment for residents.
This project has not only improved the local environment, but has also increased the area’s attractiveness and economic value.
Green infrastructure not only offers environmental benefits, but is also a critical component of sustainable urban development for the future.
By integrating nature into both cities and rural areas, we can create communities that are resilient to climate change, while also improving residents’ health and quality of life, and building economically sustainable environments.
For those working in the built environment industry, this presents an opportunity to lead the way in a manner that benefits both current populations and future generations. It’s time to prioritize nature in our construction projects and make green infrastructure a fundamental part of all urban development.
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