There are many effective ways to go green such as green food, green cooking, green gardening, and green traveling. But the concept of green cities is entirely a different niche. Green city is a consolidation of all these factors. Green cities are the cities which not only promote clean air and water but also endorse other programs such as use of alternate fuels as well as eco friendly construction methods.
The leading green cities of the world are:
- Reykjavik, Iceland – this is one of the most amazing green cities and one of the smallest cities in the world, but is hard impact one. The country plans to disconnect all its dependence on fossil fuel by 2050. This will make them a hydrogen economy. The city gets all the heat, electricity etc. from hydropower and geothermal resources. Hence it’s completely renewable and free of greenhouse gas emissions. The entire city is working on lowering of energy consumptions and adapting to green living lifestyles.
- Austin, Texas – This city is committed to solar energy and green building. The city also makes use of significant amount of wind energy and plans to meet 20% its energy needs with renewable sources by 2020. The city has many policies for maintaining water quality, maintain energy efficiency. The city offers attractive rebates to person using solar energy. There are seminars conducted for people to encourage go green concept.
- Masdar, Abu Dhabi, UAE – This is a future go green city. The city is spending around $15 billion to build an eco friendly emerald city. The city will make use renewable resources such as solar, wind energy and biofuels. The city will be ready in next decade and is claiming to be a zero emission community. The city will be skyscraper free and will make use of photovoltaic arrays at the roof tops to collect sunlight for power. The city looks forward to recycle 80% gray water and thus reduce water consumption by 60%
- Vancouver, Canada – this is one of the most beautiful cities of world and was adjudged world’s most livable city by economist magazine. The city has an ambitious 100 year clean and green living plan. The city is a worldwide leader in hydroelectric energy which makes up around 90% of their total power supply. The city is also investing in tidal energy, wave energy etc.
Hence, one should get inspiration from these cities and understand their duty towards Mother Nature. These cities are the future and should be encouraged.
