More than ever, clients seek designs that prioritize health and sustainability. This growing demand is not just a trend; it’s a paradigm shift that reflects broader societal awareness of how our surroundings affect our well-being and the planet. A recent study by McKinsey & Company and NielsenIQ highlights this shift, revealing that 78 percent of U.S. consumers say that a sustainable lifestyle is important to them.
• 84 percent of contract architects and designers see the demand for healthy spaces and sustainable products significantly increasing in the next two years.
• The “sustainability-first specifier persona” has doubled since 2022.
• 17 percent of architects and designers say sustainability is a top three deciding factor for product selections, up from 8 percent in 2020.
Benefits of Designing for Holistic Well-Being
Holistic well-being encompasses four perspectives: physical, psychological, behavioral, and intellectual. In the context of architecture and design, this means creating spaces that address all aspects of the self (physical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual) and recognizing their interconnectedness and the impact of the built environment on each of these elements.
A recent study conducted by the McKinsey Health Institute, spanning 30 nations and surveying 30,000 workers, highlights the crucial link between employee job satisfaction and performance, and overall well-being. The research underscores the need for companies to rethink work environments and create spaces that foster the holistic health of their workforce.
To that end, architectural and design firms are increasingly incorporating elements to address mental well-being, such as meditation spaces and quiet zones, mothers’ and wellness rooms, biophilic design, water features, access to outdoor spaces, and ample opportunities for movement from gyms to yoga studios and corridors that double as walking tracks.
Architecture and Design’s Powerful Influence
In the built environment, the adoption of sustainable product selection practices is widespread, and with more than 40 times greater purchasing power than the average consumer (as shown by ThinkLab’s Benchmark Report), the architectural and design community has tremendous influence on the demand for ecofriendly building products. And while a smaller portion of the overall design community, the number of “sustainability-first specifiers” has doubled in the past two years, and more broadly, more specifiers consider sustainability a top product selection criterion (17 percent, up from 8 percent in 2020).
Designers are navigating this landscape with innovative materials, energy-efficient systems, and a commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of their projects. The mutual benefit and connected nature of sustainable and human-centered design support an integrated, holistic approach.
Catalysts for Positive Change
As the threads of health, wellness, and sustainability weave together, the tapestry of the future of design unfolds. While the design considerations are many, addressing physical, mental, and environmental health, the industry is up to the challenge, shaping environments that contribute to the well-being of both people and the planet.
Erica Waayenberg, LEED AP, is head of research and content at ThinkLab, the research division of SANDOW. At ThinkLab we combine SANDOW Media’s incredible reach in the architecture and design community through brands like METROPOLIS with proven market research techniques to uncover relevant trends and opportunities for the design industry. View the ThinkLab U.S. Design Industry Benchmark Report for 2024 and ThinkLab’s 5 Specifier Personas for the Interior Design Industry research at thinklab. design, and join in to explore what’s next at thinklab. design/join-in.
Triunity Green: Transforming Deserts into Profitable Agricultural Ventures with Innovative Nanotechnology is not only possible but feasible as per what is described below.
Desertification and land degradation come with a massive economic toll, estimated at up to $15 trillion, and humanity is losing 100 million hectares annually. The UN projects that the vast majority of the world’s…
Desertification and land degradation come with a massive economic toll, estimated at up to $15 trillion, and humanity is losing 100 million hectares annually. The UN projects that the vast majority of the world’s arable land will be completely depleted within 45 to 60 years. With one-third of the Earth’s land being desert, it’s crucial to devise strategies and technologies to rehabilitate regions impacted by human-driven desertification.
In a world facing escalating challenges of soil degradation, desertification, and food security, Triunity Green emerges as a beacon of hope with its revolutionary approach to sustainable agriculture and land management. By harnessing the power of cutting-edge nanotechnology, their innovative methods not only address critical environmental issues but also offer significant opportunities for profitability in the agricultural sector. Triunity Green is revolutionizing the way people think about desert agriculture, offering a sustainable and economically viable solution to the pressing challenges of soil loss, water scarcity, and food security.
Harnessing Nanotechnology to Overcome Desert Challenges
Deserts, with their arid conditions and poor soil quality, have long been considered largely inhospitable to agriculture. However, Triunity Green’s innovative Nano Ionic Biomimetic Matrix is challenging this status quo. Engineered at the nanoscale, this advanced material encapsulates a bespoke powder matrix rich in micronutrients and bioactive agents essential for plant morphogenesis, enabling optimal plant growth even in the harshest desert environments.
“By addressing the inherent challenges of water retention, nutrient availability, and plant growth in sand environments, we are unlocking the agricultural potential of deserts, creating the opportunity for profitable ventures that contribute to global food security and economic development.” explains a spokesperson for Triunity Green.
Sustainable and Profitable Agriculture in Desert Landscapes
Triunity Green’s innovative approach to desert agriculture aims to create thriving ecosystems capable of producing abundant and nutritious food. By optimizing water management and nutrient delivery through their Nano Ionic Biomimetic Matrix, Triunity Green can achieve substantial resource conservation, reducing water consumption, fertilizer usage, and energy expenditure by up to 70%. “Desert agriculture has the potential to be both sustainable and profitable,” says the spokesperson. “This innovative technology not only makes it possible to grow crops in desert environments but also offers significant economic benefits, stimulating investment, job creation, and economic growth in regions previously considered unsuitable for agriculture.”
A Paradigm Shift in Sustainable Agriculture
By pioneering advancements at the nexus of nanotechnology and plant science, Triunity Green is heralding a new epoch in agriculture. Their interdisciplinary innovation ensures biomechanically superior anchorage and nuanced control over hydric and nutritional dynamics, transforming ordinary sand into a rich and sustainable soil-like analogue.
Triunity Green represents a groundbreaking advancement in the field of sustainable agriculture. “Our methods not only revolutionize the landscape of sand-mediated phytotechnologies but also pave the way for unparalleled precision in both sustainable and restorative agriculture. This marks a significant paradigm shift in the symbiotic relationship between plants and engineered substrates, setting new standards for profitability and environmental stewardship,“ says the spokesperson in Triunity Green.
Empowering Communities Through Sustainable Development
In addition to transforming deserts into profitable agricultural ventures, Triunity Green is committed to empowering local communities through sustainable development and education. By partnering with local governments, organizations, and farmers, Triunity Green fosters community engagement and capacity building, equipping people with the knowledge and resources they need to participate in and benefit from sustainable agricultural practices.
“Community engagement is at the heart of our mission,” emphasizes the spokesperson. “By empowering local communities to participate in sustainable desert agriculture, we are creating opportunities for economic growth, social development, and environmental stewardship, fostering a brighter and more prosperous future for all.”
Investing in a Sustainable Future
As the global community grapples with the urgent need to protect and restore the natural environment, the adoption of profitable and sustainable methods becomes increasingly crucial. By accelerating the transition to innovative solutions that prioritize both environmental sustainability and profitability, it can ensure a brighter and more prosperous future for all.
“As stewards of our planet, we must recognize that our existence is intricately linked to the health and vitality of our soil and environment,” emphasizes the spokesperson. “By leveraging biomimicry and investing in advanced scientific technologies, we can elucidate the intricacies of natural ecosystems and develop innovative solutions that foster a synergistic, profitable, and sustainable coexistence between humanity and the environment.”
Triunity Green is committed to creating a sustainable future by developing innovative technologies and practices that restore and regenerate the natural environment and urban landscapes. With a focus on creating regenerative, resilient, and profitable agricultural and urban land management systems, Triunity Green aims to address the pressing challenges of soil degradation, desertification, urbanization, and food security through the application of cutting-edge nanotechnology and plant science.
The gradual abandonment of fossil fuels in national energy mixes in favour of new clean energies has now been agreed upon internationally. It should lead to the establishment of a new energy ecosystem. This historic decision, adopted at the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), held in Dubai from 30 November to 12 December 2023, has a double effect:
(1) accelerate efforts to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 or around 2050 through a phase-down of coal use, the elimination of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies and the significant reduction of methane emissions; and (2) accelerate the global economy’s transition to renewable energy sources, cleaner technologies, and greater energy efficiency. While these measures have become essential to deal with global warming, the energy transition will impose costs on fossil fuel-producing and exporting countries and force them to set up new diversified economic models. These costs will vary from one oil-producing country to another depending on their specificities in terms of products exported and the structure of extraction costs. As far as it is concerned, although oil has dominated economic activity since independence, Algeria does not contribute significantly to global climate change.
However, like other countries in the Middle East and North Africa, it remains strongly affected by various serious natural disturbances. In addition to the structural costs imposed by the latter (ecosystems, infrastructure, economic activity), there will be those of the energy transition. The combination of the two will inevitably increase the country’s macroeconomic and social vulnerabilities as well as the financial need to address them. The future must therefore be prepared now by putting in place ambitious and coherent macroeconomic reforms and mobilizing adequate financing to create new engines of growth. An immediate strategic priority. Let’s discuss these points.
The energy transition is expected to reconfigure the structure of the market for energy products. The current global energy mix is dominated by fossil fuels (85% with oil accounting for 34% of global energy consumption, gas 23% and coal 28%). Although increasing, the share of renewable energies (wind, solar and geothermal) is only 15%. The five largest producers of renewable energy are China (31% of global production), the United States (11%), Brazil (6.4%), Canada (5.4%) and India (3.9%). Iceland is the country with 87% of its energy produced from renewable sources, followed by Norway (71.56%) and Sweden (50.92%). In 2023, the global renewable energy sector employed 14 million people and attracted $525 billion in investment.
Fossil fuel exporters will now face a gradual decline in global demand between 2024-2050. In support of net-zero GHG emissions, projections by the International Energy Agency, the World Bank and the IMF show a decline in the consumption of coal (90% due to its high carbon content), oil (80%) and natural gas (70% due to its low carbon content). Demand for natural gas could even increase in the short to medium term if it is used as a transition fuel as a substitute for coal.
The impacts on domestic demand for fossil fuels will not be uniform but will depend on a range of factors, including: (1) the type of product exported and its extraction costs; (2) the specificities of the country; (3) the dynamics of fossil fuel sector reform (downstream carbon pricing, adoption of clean technologies, penalization of emissions-intensive extraction processes, and banning polluting technologies); (4) the level of investment in fossil fuel projects, particularly by major crude oil, natural gas or coal producing countries so as not to undermine global energy security; (5) technological development in favour of cleaner energy alternatives; and (6) freezing 60% of the world’s proven oil and natural gas reserves and 90% of coal reserves to meet the COP 28 target.
The energy transition will have an impact on the macroeconomic fundamentals of fossil fuel exporting countries.
The sustainability of the balance of payments will be threatened by a decline in net fossil fuel export earnings, a decline in foreign direct investment in the energy sector, an increase in the country’s external debt, a decline in foreign exchange reserves, a depreciation of the nominal exchange rate, and a consequent rise in inflation.
Economic growth and, ultimately, its main drivers. The decline in exports and/or investment associated with the oil industry will first weaken economic activity and employment in the downstream sectors (cement, fertilizers, petrochemicals, steel). Secondly, there will be multiplier effects on the economy as a whole, through reductions in employment levels, incomes of economic agents, oil taxation, private and public consumption and investment. Finally, changes in domestic demand, fossil fuel consumer prices, and exchange rate movements will fuel inflationary pressures.
The sustainability of public finances. The variation in global fossil fuel prices will reduce the level of taxation collected from public and private companies (national and international) involved in this activity (taxes, dividends, royalties and profits in the case of production-sharing contracts). The spillover effects on the economy as a whole will also take the form of a reduction in the tax base, a change in the structure of public expenditure (conversion and restructuring programmes of the economy) and an increase in the debt of state-owned enterprises (through explicit and implicit public guarantees). Ultimately, governments will need to draw on their reserves or cut spending to maintain the sustainability of public finances and public debt.
The banking and financial sector: which is heavily involved in the financing of the fossil fuel industry, could face higher risks related to balance sheet effects (generated by exchange rate fluctuations, excessive volatility or sustained changes in fossil fuel sales), which will affect the ability of the financial sector to attract domestic or international financing and to ensure the intermediation of funds and the support for the economy.
The main thrusts of reforms at the level of fossil fuel exporting countries to manage the energy transition. Overall, the latter is a source of challenges but also opportunities for the countries concerned to undertake a transition to an energy mix that will protect populations and ensure sustainable economic development. In the context of long-term planning, punctuated by regular assessments to determine the point of abandonment of fossil fuel investments and the shift to clean energy, countries should put in place appropriate public policies and reforms based on the following key areas:
Diversification of the economy: to reduce their dependence on fossil fuel revenues by targeting the renewable energy, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing and knowledge sectors.
Investments in renewable energy: to meet their energy needs and reduce carbon emissions while paving the way for new economic opportunities and jobs.
Tax reforms: aimed at reducing the share of taxation on fossil fuels through new taxes or levies on the extraction and consumption of fossil fuels, as well as the reallocation of public spending towards sustainable development.
Social safety nets: vital to help vulnerable populations adapt to a changing economy, including through support programs for workers exiting the fossil fuel sector and subsidies to promote access to renewable energy.
Institutional framework for renewable energy: To facilitate the emergence and consolidation of renewable energy, complementary reforms will target governance, transparency and regulatory frameworks.
The case of Algeria: meeting the dual challenge of climate change and a costly and complex energy transition. The latter must be prepared now to absorb its costs over a longer period and create new growth engines. Three points to highlight.
Climate change is already a source of structural damage: in recent years, it has manifested itself through a series of shocks, including rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, heat or cold waves, droughts and floods. These shocks will continue to impact the country over the next few years, particularly in the most vulnerable sectors such as agriculture (crops and livestock), forests (fires and forest dieback), hydraulics in ecosystems north of the Sahara and health (vulnerability to many pathologies).
The main thrusts of the national strategy to combat climate change: according to the Ministry of the Environment and Renewable Energies, revolve around:
(1) the development of renewable energies by exploiting the significant potential of solar and wind energy; (2) adaptation to the challenges of water scarcity and desertification through investments in water management, agriculture and infrastructure resilience; (3) strengthening public policies and regulations: to support climate change objectives (stricter emission standards, incentives for renewable energy projects and sustainable land use practices); (4) continued international collaboration to facilitate the sharing of best practices, access to finance for climate projects, and participation in global climate negotiations; and (5) public awareness and education to foster public support for mitigation and adaptation efforts.
The strategy for managing the energy transition: in 2023, fossil fuels contributed 19.1% to gross domestic product (GDP), 91.3% to exports and 52% to total budget revenues. Algeria is ranked 54th in the 2024 Climate Change Performance Index. Taken together, these two elements underscore the extent of future efforts to decarbonize and diversify the national economy, especially as energy experts estimate that the country’s oil production is expected to peak in 2040 (this could vary depending on future economic trends, technological developments, and the efforts of companies and governments to mitigate climate change).
It is therefore vital that Algeria, like other fossil fuel-producing countries, accelerate economic diversification and make it a strategic priority. In the meantime, the ongoing global energy transition will add to long-standing uncertainties about the relative movements of fossil fuel demand and supply and will negatively impact fossil fuel-related exports, tax flows, investment and, consequently, external and fiscal accounts, economic growth and employment.
To address these challenges and move towards diversification, Algeria will need to step up its efforts to mitigate fiscal risks. In addition, fiscal policy should contribute to a reduction in national GHG emissions, by promoting the uptake of low-carbon technologies and helping the most vulnerable to cope with changes related to the energy transition.
In terms of broader macroeconomic risks, the authorities should address them by accelerating structural reforms targeting the emergence of new growth drivers. At the same time, improved regulation and financial supervision could limit financial sector exposures.
Finally, continued international coordination on the design and implementation of new climate policies as well as international transfer programmes (financing and capacity development) offer appropriate ways to address the uncertainties surrounding the energy transition and the associated negative economic consequences.
According to the author, Algeria’s Sustainable Tourism Destinations Travel Guide is a hidden gem boasting breathtaking landscapes, vast deserts, and a rich history.
Algeria is a hidden gem that boasts breathtaking landscapes, vast deserts, and rich history. However, with the rise of tourism, it is essential to ensure that visitors can enjoy the country’s natural beauty without harming the environment. That’s why sustainable tourism is of utmost importance, allowing Algeria to preserve its beauty and cultural heritage for future generations.
By promoting eco-friendly travel and responsible tourism practices, Algeria can continue to develop its tourism industry while preserving its unique identity. This guide will introduce you to the sustainable tourism destinations in Algeria and offer practical tips for enjoying environmentally friendly travel experiences.
Key Takeaways
Algeria’s natural beauty and cultural heritage should be preserved through sustainable tourism practices
Eco-friendly travel and responsible tourism are crucial for protecting the environment while promoting tourism
This guide will offer insights into sustainable tourism destinations in Algeria
Exploring Eco-Friendly Travel in Algeria
Algeria boasts a diverse range of natural attractions that make it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travellers seeking responsible travel experiences. From lush national parks to pristine beaches, there are plenty of environmentally friendly tourism options to explore.
One of the best ways to enjoy eco-friendly travel in Algeria is by choosing responsible travel practices. This includes being mindful of your waste and energy consumption, using eco-friendly products, and respecting local cultures and communities. By adopting these practices, you’ll be able to explore Algerian destinations while minimizing your environmental impact and supporting sustainable tourism.
When it comes to environmentally friendly tourism in Algeria, there are numerous options to choose from. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, head to the Tassili n’Ajjer National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning rock formations and prehistoric rock art. You can also explore the Saharan desert and its oases, where you can experience traditional nomadic life and spot local wildlife like camels and desert foxes.
If you’re more interested in coastal adventures, visit the El Kala National Park, located on the Mediterranean coast. The park is home to over 170 species of birds and numerous marine species, making it a perfect spot for bird watching, fishing, and snorkelling.
For a truly unique eco-tourism experience, visit the Ghardaia Province, home to a group of ancient fortified cities known as ‘ksour’. These cities blend into the surrounding landscape and use traditional building techniques to maximize natural resources and reduce environmental impact.
From hiking and exploring parks to immersing yourself in local culture, environmentally friendly tourism in Algeria offers endless opportunities for sustainable travel. By choosing green travel in Algeria, you can enjoy memorable holidays while supporting sustainable development and protecting the country’s natural beauty.
Sustainable Development in Algerian Tourism
Algeria has recognized the importance of sustainable tourism development, and the government has taken various initiatives to promote responsible and eco-friendly travel. The sustainable development in Algerian tourism is a vital component of the country’s long-term development plan.
The Ministry of Tourism and Handicrafts has made significant efforts to promote eco-tourism spots in Algeria. The ministry has also collaborated with local communities to preserve and protect natural areas and wildlife habitats. As a result, there are now several well-developed eco-tourism spots in Algeria that offer visitors a chance to enjoy the country’s natural beauty in a sustainable way.
One of the most prominent eco-tourism spots in Algeria is the Tassili n’Ajjer National Park, located in the southeastern Sahara Desert. The park boasts unique geological formations and prehistoric rock art that dates back thousands of years. The park’s management aims to conserve the natural and cultural heritage of the area while providing visitors with sustainable and responsible travel experiences.
The government’s efforts to promote sustainable development in Algerian tourism have resulted in several other well-managed eco-tourism spots, such as the Gouraya National Park and the Djurdjura National Park. These parks offer visitors the opportunity to experience Algeria’s natural beauty while supporting the local economy in a responsible and sustainable way.
Algeria’s commitment to sustainable tourism development has also led to the creation of several eco-lodges and sustainable accommodation options. These accommodations prioritize sustainability through the use of renewable energy, waste management practices, and support of local communities. By staying at these accommodations, visitors can contribute to the preservation of Algeria’s natural beauty and support sustainable tourism practices.
Overall, the Algerian government recognizes that sustainable development in tourism is essential for the country’s future. By promoting eco-tourism and responsible travel practices, Algeria can protect its natural beauty and cultural heritage while also offering visitors a unique and sustainable travel experience.
Must-Visit Sustainable Tourism Destinations in Algeria
If you’re looking for sustainable attractions in Algeria, you won’t be disappointed. The country is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Africa, with many eco-friendly travel options available. Here are some of the must-visit sustainable tourism destinations in Algeria:
Destination
Attractions
Accommodation
Tassili n’Ajjer National Park
Located in southeastern Algeria, this park boasts breathtaking sandstone formations and prehistoric rock art.
Eco-lodges are available for visitors looking for a sustainable stay.
The Sahara Desert
Explore the world’s largest hot desert on a camel trek or 4×4 excursion. Many tour operators now offer environmentally friendly travel options, such as solar-powered campsites.
Eco-friendly accommodations can be found in nearby towns and villages.
Djurdjura National Park
This beautiful park is located in the mountainous region of northern Algeria. Visitors can hike through lush forests and spot rare wildlife, such as the Barbary macaque.
Guesthouses and eco-lodges are available for sustainable holidays in Algeria.
These sustainable tourism destinations in Algeria are just a few examples of the country’s commitment to eco-friendly travel and responsible tourism practices. By choosing to travel sustainably, you can help protect Algeria’s natural beauty and support the local communities.
Conclusion
In summary, sustainable tourism in Algeria is crucial to preserving the country’s natural beauty and supporting local communities. By choosing eco-friendly travel options, visitors can minimize their impact on the environment and contribute to the sustainable development of the Algerian tourism industry.
We encourage travellers to explore the many sustainable attractions that Algeria has to offer, such as the Tassili n’Ajjer National Park, the Ahaggar National Park, and the stunning Sahara Desert. Choosing sustainable accommodation options is also essential in ensuring responsible tourism practices.
Remember, responsible tourism is not only about protecting the environment; it’s also about supporting local communities and respecting their cultural heritage. As you plan your next holiday, consider Algeria’s many sustainable tourism destinations and make a positive impact on the world.
FAQ
Q: What is sustainable tourism?
A: Sustainable tourism refers to practices that aim to minimize the negative impact of tourism on the environment, while preserving the cultural heritage and promoting economic development. It involves responsible travel, conservation of natural resources, and support for local communities.
Q: Why is eco-friendly travel important?
A: Eco-friendly travel is important because it helps protect the environment and preserves the natural beauty of destinations. By adopting sustainable travel practices, we can minimize our carbon footprint, reduce pollution, and support the conservation of wildlife and natural habitats.
Q: How can I practice responsible tourism in Algeria?
A: You can practice responsible tourism in Algeria by respecting local cultures and customs, minimizing waste and conserving resources, supporting local businesses and communities, and participating in eco-friendly activities and tours. It’s also important to follow any guidelines or rules set by protected areas or national parks.
Q: Are there any eco-tourism spots in Algeria?
A: Yes, Algeria has several eco-tourism spots that showcase its natural beauty while promoting sustainability. Some popular eco-tourism spots include Tassili n’Ajjer National Park, Ahaggar National Park, and the Gouraya National Park. These areas offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and experiencing Algeria’s unique ecosystems.
Q: Can I find sustainable accommodation in Algeria?
A: Yes, there are sustainable accommodation options available in Algeria. Many hotels and lodges in eco-tourism spots prioritize sustainability, offering eco-friendly amenities, utilizing renewable energy sources, and implementing waste management practices. It’s always a good idea to research and choose accommodation providers that are committed to environmental responsibility.
A SmartCitiesWorld‘s Special Reports article on the forthcoming Cities Climate Action Summit 2024 would be about the built environment that is generally going green. Let us know what it is all about.
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Image above is for illustration credit to SmartCitiesWorld‘s article on COP28.
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Cities Climate Action Summit 2024: going green in the built environment
The SmartCitiesWorld Summit, which takes place 26-27 June, will act as a call to action for cities to make the transformation of the built environment a central part of their climate action strategies.
Summit also focuses on the potential of smart buildings to transform the built environment and make it more sustainable and resilient
The built environment is crucial for sustainability as cities around the world face the dual challenges of rapid urbanisation and climate change. Buildings and infrastructure have a major impact on energy use, emissions, and urban resilience, and this year’s Cities Climate Action Summit (26-27 June) highlights the built environment as a key theme. The Summit gathers city leaders, policymakers, urban planners, and technology leaders to discuss innovative strategies for making the built environment a vital part of climate action.
Some of the main elements of the discussions are retrofitting, smart buildings, and smart lighting, which are promising ways to lower energy use, increase efficiency, and improve resilience in the built environment.
A focus on retrofitting
Retrofitting existing buildings is essential for urban climate action, as most of today’s building stock will still be in use for many years, meaning that upgrading and improving the energy performance of buildings through actions such as better insulation, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, and the use of renewable energy technologies is critical. By retrofitting existing buildings, cities can reduce energy use, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance indoor comfort and air quality.
The Summit also focuses on the potential of smart buildings to transform the built environment and make it more sustainable and resilient. Smart buildings use advanced technologies such as sensors, automation systems, and data analytics to monitor and adjust energy use, operational efficiency, and occupant comfort. By using real-time information and control of various building systems, smart buildings can adapt lighting, heating, and ventilation to minimise energy waste and environmental impact while maximising occupant satisfaction.
June’s Summit will see experts come together to discuss how cities can get a head start on retrofitting municipal and public buildings, while setting policy to influence the green credentials of new buildings.
BE PART OF CITIES CLIMATE ACTION SUMMIT 2024
Do you have an urban climate action story to tell at this year’s Cities Climate Action Summit? Find out how you can become a partner by contacting Carlota Da Veiga Pestana, or request an event information pack here.
Smarter lighting, greener future
Both inside and outside of buildings in cities, smart lighting is a key part of sustainable urban infrastructure, with the ability to reduce energy usage and improve safety and liveability. LED lighting, especially, has better energy efficiency, durability, and controllability than traditional lighting technologies. By replacing streetlights, public buildings, and outdoor spaces with LED fixtures and smart lighting controls, cities can achieve significant energy savings, reduce light pollution, and create safer and more attractive urban environments.
These technologies have been central to SmartCitiesWorld’s coverage of the urban environment in recent years, and will be front and centre of the discussions at the Summit, too.
Resilient by design
Besides retrofitting and smart technologies, the Summit will also stress the need to include climate resilience and adaptation measures in the design and planning of the built environment. With the rising frequency and severity of extreme weather events, cities must make resilience a priority to protect infrastructure, buildings, and communities from climate-related risks such as flooding, heatwaves, and storms. This involves actions such as bolstering green infrastructure, using resilient building materials, and decentralising energy systems to improve resilience while lowering environmental impact.
The Summit gathers city leaders, policymakers, urban planners, and technology leaders to discuss innovative strategies for making the built environment a vital part of climate action
The Summit also examines the role of policy and governance mechanisms in driving change in the built environment. Through regulatory incentives, financial mechanisms, and capacity-building initiatives, cities can create a supportive environment for sustainable building practices and encourage collaboration between public and private stakeholders. Discussions at the Summit will highlight the importance of stakeholder engagement and community participation in shaping the future of the built environment, ensuring that climate action initiatives are inclusive, fair, and responsive to local needs and priorities.
As the Cities Climate Action Summit brings together leaders and stakeholders from different sectors and backgrounds, it reinforces the importance of the built environment in tackling the global climate crisis. By adopting innovative solutions such as retrofitting, smart buildings, and smart lighting, cities can take advantage of opportunities to lower emissions, improve resilience, and create healthier, more sustainable urban environments. As urban populations keep growing and climate impacts worsen, the Summit acts as a call to action for cities to make the transformation of the built environment a central part of their climate action strategies.
A three-day forum in Morocco emphasized the importance of environmentally friendly, socially resilient, and technologically innovative approaches to urban development. Key discussions included the role of smart cities in achieving sustainable development and the significance of digitalization and AI in transforming societies. Participants highlighted the need for smarter planning strategies and collaboration across African cities.
run Africa from top to bottom, just that… April 8, 2024 Russ Cook, nicknamed the “ hardest Geezer » (the toughest of the giants) completed his remarkable expedition of traveling the entire length of Africa after about a year. The 27-year-old from the United Kingdom crossed deserts, mountains and rainforests on his journey from South Africa to […]
North Africa’s Renewables Revolution: Unlocking The Region’s Potential For Climate Resilience By Pooja Chandak In the face of climate change challenges, North Africa – encompassing Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia, and Sudan – emerges as a key player in the global energy transition. The region’s economies, heavily reliant on agriculture, fishery, and tourism, are […]
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