Urban Sustainability
In 2004, International Sustainable Solutions Inc. organized two urban sustainability study tours of Sweden and Denmark for real estate developers, architects, planners, engineers and others. The intent of the tours was to influence the further implementation of sustainability measures in the Cascadia region, which encompasses Vancouver, BC, Seattle, WA and Portland, OR. Already several initiatives are underway as a direct result of these tours. For more information on future tours and events, go to www.i-sustain.com.
Public Spaces
| Total images: 71
People in Sweden and Denmark love to shop, particularly along the many walking streets of their inner cities. In the 1960s the idea of pedestrian only streets seemed un-Scandinavian; something for the French or Italians. Now Swedes and Danes can't imagine city life without them. Public spaces are large enough for special events, but provide intimate settings for interaction and people watching. When lots of people, including families, make downtown their home, cities are safer and more vibrant.
Green Roofs
| Total images: 33
Ordinary rooftops blight our cities. Green roofs (which depending on the plants are not always green, but red, brown and other colors) provide pockets of nature within the urban landscape. They reduce heat in the city, provide stormwater relief, increase building insulation, and create biodiversity. In Europe, where green roofs are more common, it is estimated that they can last up to 75 years with minimal maintenance.
Energy
| Total images: 46
In 1970, Denmark imported oil for 98% of its energy needs. In reaction to the oil crisis, the country committed itself to achieving energy independence. New technologies were implemented, such as super efficient combined heat and power plants, advanced wind turbines, and non-polluting plants to extract energy from municipal waste, while high standards for energy efficiency in buildings led to innovative designs and conservation. Today, Denmark is a net exporter of energy, and renewable technology is its leading export.
Stormwater
| Total images: 56
Natural drainage systems use surface features such as retention ponds, swales and open channels to capture stormwater runoff, creating a respite for people to enjoy, and a home for birds and wildlife. Courtyard gardens fed by roof water clean the storm water runoff from adjacent hardscape surfaces. The benefits are reduced costs associated with treatment facilities and subsurface systems, decreased irrigation needs, improved stormwater quality through biofiltration, and new opportunities for artistic expression.
Mobility
| Total images: 35
In Copenhagen over 65% of commuters go to work by walking, bicycling or public transport - 1/3 use bicycles, 1/3 use public transportation and the remaining 1/3 use cars. Public policy prioritizes public transportation and bicycles over cars, which makes commuting by alternative means the most convenient and efficient choice. The result is quieter cities, lower emissions, reduced energy consumption, and a healthier population.
Sketchbook
| Total images: 41
Susan Jones, of atelierjones, brought her sketchbook instead of a camera to capture her impressions of urban sutainability in Scandinavia.