Pioneering Sustainability-Stories from the world #1 (Insights from Bali, China and New York)
Today’s youth is believed to be the first generation that can end poverty and last generation that can save the planet from climate change. The disastrous effects of climate change are towering over us by the day, but now we are also most equipped with technology, artificial intelligence and the intellectual acumen that is required to tackle the issue.
Innovative thought leaders in different countries are taking steps to inculcate sustainability in the daily lifestyle and implement environmental solutions. Here are three main lessons we can learn from the innovative minds from Bali, New York and China.
Green School Bali: Pioneering Sustainability in Education
The Green School in Bali stands as a beacon of sustainable education, inspiring students to become environmentally conscious global citizens. With its innovative curriculum and eco-friendly infrastructure, the school serves as a testament to the possibilities of sustainable living and learning.
Promoting Sustainable Infrastructure
From the moment you step foot on campus, you are convinced that Green School is committed to sustainability. The buildings are constructed primarily from bamboo, a renewable and fast-growing resource. These structures blend with the natural surroundings while reducing the school’s carbon footprint. Moreover, the campus boasts renewable energy systems, including solar panels and hydro-powered turbines, to meet its energy needs.
Empowering Environmental Stewardship
Students actively participate in various environmental initiatives, such as organic gardening, composting, and recycling. They learn about permaculture principles, sustainable farming practices and biodiversity conservation.
Innovative Curriculum
Students engage in hands-on learning experiences that connect them with nature and teach them about sustainable practices. They learn to design and construct sustainable solutions, develop renewable energy projects, and tackle real-world environmental challenges.
Community Engagement:
Green School hosts workshops and events that foster sustainable practices, encouraging individuals to adopt eco-friendly lifestyles. It also collaborates with organizations and universities worldwide, creating a global network of environmental changemakers.
Green School Bali has emerged as a trailblazer in the realm of sustainable education, inspiring young minds to become stewards of the environment. By integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations, Green School provides a living example of how we can create a greener future.
Rethinking Skyscrapers: The Shrinking of New York City
New York City, known for its iconic skyline dominated by skyscrapers, is experiencing a shift. As urban landscapes evolve and environmental concerns come to the forefront, the idea of constructing more skyscrapers is being challenged.
Environmental Impact:
Skyscrapers, with their massive energy requirements for heating, cooling, and lighting, pose significant environmental challenges. Their tall profiles create shadows that limit sunlight and airflow to street level, affecting microclimates and exacerbating heat island effects. Additionally, the materials and resources required to construct these buildings have substantial carbon footprints. Emphasizing sustainable and energy-efficient building practices can mitigate these environmental impacts.
Urban Planning for Equitable Growth:
As New York City continues to evolve, urban planning must prioritize equitable growth and affordable housing. Rather than focusing on constructing more skyscrapers, the emphasis should be on creating mixed-use developments that integrate green spaces, affordable housing, and public transportation options.
Preserving Community and Identity:
While skyscrapers have been symbols of economic prowess, their proliferation can often come at the cost of neighborhood character and community cohesion. Their construction displaces long-standing businesses, disrupts the social fabric, and can contribute to gentrification.
Reimagining Urban Architecture:
Rather than blindly embracing skyscrapers as the solution to urban expansion, it is crucial to explore alternative architectural concepts. Low-rise buildings, adaptive reuse of existing structures, and innovative urban design can contribute to a more balanced and visually appealing cityscape. This approach encourages creativity, diversity, and a stronger connection between residents and their surroundings.
As New York City experiences a shrinking trend, it is an opportune time to rethink our reliance on skyscrapers as the default solution for urban expansion. It’s time to break free from the skyscraper mindset and forge a new path towards a resilient and vibrant city.
Renewable Energy Lessons to Learn from China’s Success
China has emerged as a global leader in renewable energy, surpassing expectations and setting impressive milestones in sustainable development. Here are key takeaways from China’s renewable energy journey and how they can guide other nations in their pursuit of a greener future.
Ambitious Targets and Long-Term Planning:
The country has consistently set and revised renewable energy goals, driving investment and innovation. This approach provides stability and sends clear signals to the market, attracting both domestic and international investments in renewable technologies.
Strong Government Support and Policy Frameworks:
China’s government has played a crucial role in fostering renewable energy growth. Supportive policies, such as feed-in tariffs and tax incentives, have encouraged private investment and market competition. The government’s commitment is evident in its renewable energy laws, research and development funding, and initiatives to promote clean energy adoption.
Integration of Renewable Energy into Existing Infrastructure:
By developing large-scale renewable energy projects and connecting them to the grid, the country has maximized the utilization of clean energy sources. This approach ensures a smooth transition.
Embracing Technological Innovation:
China has invested heavily in research and development, fostering advancements in solar, wind, hydro, and battery technologies. This commitment to innovation has not only reduced costs but also improved the efficiency and reliability of renewable energy systems.
International Cooperation and Collaboration:
China actively collaborates with international partners, sharing knowledge, expertise, and resources. Through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and international climate agreements, China promotes global cooperation in combating climate change and advancing renewable energy adoption worldwide.
On a closing note, these lessons are a testament leading to the fact: the world today is equipped with wisdom, resources and technology to tackle a crisis. It’s never too late. By using the right resources, a path towards regenerative future can be paved. Let’s start with the right motivation to take an action, and it will be taken.
Credits:
“https://www.linkedin.com/in/pranoti-abhyankar-70911b1b5/”
“https://www.linkedin.com/in/vaishnavi-selvaraj-93a668259/ “
