Modern city dwellers are largely detached from the environmental effects of their daily lives. The sources of the water they drink; the food they eat; and the energy they consume are all but invisible; often coming from other continents; and their waste ends up in places beyond their city boundaries. Cities as Sustainable Ecosystems shows how cities and their residents can begin to reintegrate into their bioregional environment; and how cities themselves can be planned with naturersquo;s organizing principles in mind. Taking cues from living systems for sustainability strategies; Newman and Jennings reassess urban design by exploring flows of energy; materials; and information; along with the interactions between human and non-human parts of the system. Drawing on examples from all corners of the world; the authors explore natural patterns and processes that cities can emulate in order to move toward sustainability. Some cities have adopted simple strategies such as harvesting rainwater; greening roofs; and producing renewable energy. Others have created biodiversity parks for endangered species; community gardens that support a connection to their foodshed; and pedestrian-friendly spaces that encourage walking and cycling. A powerful model for urban redevelopment; Cities as Sustainable Ecosystems describes aspects of urban ecosystems from the visioning process to achieving economic security to fostering a sense of place.
#1969087 in eBooks 2011-08-18 2013-04-25File Name: B005IH7E9A
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