LEED Green Associate emphasizes walkability encouragement through condensed urban development, as advocated by LEED.
In a concerted effort to create livable and sustainable urban environments, the promotion of compact development has gained significant traction, especially in the realm of smart growth principles. This development approach, championed by LEED, aims to enhance walkability, reduce vehicle miles traveled, and combat urban sprawl.
Compact development fosters the creation of mixed-use neighborhoods, where various destinations such as housing, work, shopping, and recreational spaces are all within walking distance. This not only makes urban living more convenient but also safer and more appealing for pedestrians. The result is a pedestrian-friendly street network that encourages walking and reduces dependency on private vehicles.
The European Urban Initiative (EUI) plays a pivotal role in this movement. With the German National Contact Point managed by the German Association for Housing, Urban and Spatial Development (DV), the EUI supports compact city development by fostering innovation, knowledge transfer, and scalable solutions in urban planning. This collaboration aims to promote walkability and sustainable urban development across Europe.
Walkability offers numerous benefits beyond just convenience. It fosters social cohesion and civic engagement by creating vibrant public spaces that encourage interaction and community engagement. From an environmental perspective, walkability reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, contributing to a healthier planet.
Moreover, walkability supports local businesses and generates tax revenues. By reducing the distance between housing, workplaces, retail stores, and other amenities and destinations, compact development encourages foot traffic, benefiting local businesses and boosting the local economy.
In terms of health, walkability improves physical and mental health by increasing physical activity and reducing stress. Regular walking can help maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure, and improve cardiovascular health. Additionally, the reduced stress levels associated with walking can contribute to better mental health and well-being.
However, it's important to note that historic preservation does not inherently promote walkability. While preserving historic buildings can contribute to a city's character and charm, it does not necessarily create walkable spaces unless the urban design is carefully planned to accommodate pedestrians.
Compact development also aims to reduce sprawl, making efficient use of land and resources. Urban sprawl, characterized by low-density, automobile-dependent development that requires new infrastructure to be built farther out from urban centers, is detrimental to sustainable urban development. By contrast, compact development clusters development around transit stops and corridors, supporting public transit and reducing the need for private vehicles.
In conclusion, compact development is a key strategy for promoting walkability and creating sustainable, livable cities. By fostering mixed-use neighborhoods, pedestrian-friendly street networks, and efficient land use, compact development contributes to improved human health, quality of life, and environmental sustainability. The European Urban Initiative, LEED, and other organisations are working tirelessly to promote this approach and create a future where cities are walkable, sustainable, and accessible for all.
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