Sustainable living is "not viable outside cities" says Hélène Chartier of C40 Cities

The article discusses insights from Hélène Chartier, head of zero-carbon development at C40 Cities, a sustainable urbanism network. The publisher, Dezeen, is known for its focus on design, architecture, and sustainability, with Jennifer Hahn as the author. Chartier emphasizes the critical role of urban areas in sustainable living and the urgent need to protect these cities from climate risks.

According to Chartier, cities are the most viable solution for housing the Earth's growing population, with urban living significantly better for reducing emissions compared to rural areas. The latest climate report from the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) highlights that cities currently house 55% of the global population but are responsible for 60% of emissions. As urban populations are expected to rise to nearly 70% by 2050, the necessity for efficient infrastructure and sustainable practices in urban environments becomes increasingly urgent.

Chartier asserts that sustainable lifestyles depend heavily on the right infrastructure, which is not feasible outside urban areas. To achieve this, a certain level of population density is required to develop efficient systems for public transport, energy, waste, and water management. She argues that well-planned cities can serve large populations effectively, thereby reducing reliance on cars and less efficient housing.

The IPCC report warns that cities have not adequately prepared for the effects of climate change, which are already affecting all regions. Chartier notes that poorly planned urban growth exacerbates global warming, making it essential for cities to decarbonize and become more resilient. Buildings account for about half of a city's carbon footprint; thus, eliminating operational emissions and rethinking construction practices are vital steps.

Chartier highlights the significant responsibility architects have in combating climate change. The design choices made today will determine future sustainability. C40 Cities promotes initiatives like the Reinventing Cities competition, aimed at encouraging low-carbon urban development across multiple cities. The initiative seeks to help cities reach their net-zero goals.

To further decrease emissions, Chartier advocates for enforcing growth boundaries to limit urban sprawl and reduce travel distances. She envisions cities becoming polycentric, fostering self-sufficient neighborhoods where daily necessities are accessible within a short walk or bike ride. This approach allows for the regeneration of natural ecosystems, which can act as carbon sinks.

As urban areas densify, they become more vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, including heatwaves and flooding. Chartier calls for climate change risk assessments for all new building projects. This would help identify hazards specific to each site, particularly in vulnerable areas like flood plains. She asserts that new constructions should incorporate greenery and bioclimatic design strategies to enhance climate resilience.

Implementing nature-based solutions, such as green roofs and urban greenways, can mitigate local temperatures and manage rainwater. Chartier insists that land-use allocations for green spaces must be mandatory for new projects. She also suggests possible local bylaws to ensure that significant roofs or walls incorporate green areas, citing New York's consideration of such regulations.

In summary, Hélène Chartier's insights underscore the critical need for sustainable urban planning and infrastructure to combat climate change. With an increasing urban population, the focus must shift toward creating greener, more resilient cities that can effectively house the world's growing populace while minimizing emissions and environmental impact.