Two very important aspects of our lives are in danger of being harmed or collapsing. The worst thing about it is that people are often mistaken in believing that having healthy economy somehow excludes the possibility of maintaining a sustainable nature, and vice versa.
The idea that taking care of nature is somehow bad for the economy is something that we are trying to overcome nowadays, especially because we learn a lot about their connection and possibilities for them to support each other. It is something we see every day in construction, development of renewable energy and other areas.
In light of this new perspective, it is important to ask what we are doing and what we can do to make both economy and nature thrive.
Big construction projects
Large construction projects have always been a way to move the economy from dead end. However, they have also always been a way to harm nature and contaminate its resources. One of such projects is the Tokyo Olympic Stadium which is in the process of construction for the 2020 Olympics. This futuristic building incorporates geothermal energy, reuses greywater and runs a rainwater cooling system. Another amazing idea of innovative architects - the Ice Palace (The Transformable Antarctic Research Facility) - fits unobtrusively into its environment, showing that it is possible to live in natural surrounding without changing it too much.
Cities that make a difference
Some changes go bigger than big buildings by encompassing entire cities, which are a true inspiration for the greener future. Abu Dhabi is a city pioneer which is working on growing into the first carbon-neutral city in the world. The plan includes recycling 80% of all water and banishing gas-powered cars. This is something that can make a difference and propel the entire region, and why not, even the world towards a more sustainable future. In Amsterdam, on the other hand, there are some ideas about developing an underwater city, while in Venice we could encounter chemically-engineered building materials (e.g., synthetic limestone reefs).
Sustainable construction on a smaller scale
An entire city based on sustainable construction is an idea that sounds amazing, but we are still far from that, so we have to take baby steps. As for the smaller scale construction, concrete will always play a huge role here, and the formwork is one of the most important construction methods which can eventually lead to more sustainable construction. Reputable companies such as TDK Formwork are the ones that will be at the forefront of these changes. Speaking of small scale, we must not forget the Tiny House Movement which is bound to make huge changes.
Renewable energy
Up until recently, the global decision makers were willing to maintain status quo when it comes to renewable energy sources, but it seems that they cannot fight the natural order of things. Humanity is turning more and more towards solar power, recycling and reusing, which are all clues to energy being available to everyone. This transition can be accelerated by increasing the price on carbon-based energy in a way that includes the costs of the damage it can inflict on the environment.
Alternatives to devastation of nature
Depleting the forests for production of furniture, paper and construction needs has already cost us a lot. This is certainly one of the reasons behind increased temperatures, climate change, storms, floods, hurricanes and other things which are, in fact, very damaging for the economy. Such conditions can also cause population from rural areas to move to the cities, leading to intensified carbon emissions, due to more people utilizing public transport, using more appliances and consuming more goods. Alternatives to cutting down the forests lie in reforesting the lands, using sustainable materials (reclaimed wood, bamboo, cork, etc.).
The transition to sustainable construction, carbon-neutral cities, and renewable energy sources might seem as a distant and impossible, but 48 years ago we didn't believe that a man could ever walk on the surface of the Moon. So, why wouldn't we believe that the mankind will come together with the purpose of preserving our planet and, at the same time, maintaining a healthy economy?
Written by Carolin Petterson
About the Author
Carolin Petterson is a Business Lady and contributor for number of high-class websites. She loves to share her experiences and talk about practical solutions, but her specialties are sustainability, sustainable business and green living.
Other articles written by Carolin:
How to Greenovate Your Bathroom
Green Flooring Options for a Healthy Home
Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Flooring Solutions for Your Home
Eco-Friendly Interior Design Ideas
3 Essential Energy-Saving Waterproofing Techniques to Protect Your Home
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