Q.
Explain ecocity and it’s guidelines with national and international examples
Introduction
The concept of ecocity emphasizes upon balance with nature, environment and eco-
system in urban [Link] definition of ecocities are explored by various
organizations.
For instance, Ecocity Builders, founded by Richard Register, accepted the following
definition of Ecocity:
….“An Ecocity is a human settlement modeled on the self-sustaining resilient structure and
function of natural ecosystems. The ecocity provides healthy abundance to its inhabitants
without consuming more (renewable) resources than it produces, without producing more
waste than it can assimilate, and without being toxic to itself or neighboring ecosystems.
Its inhabitants’ ecological impact reflects planetary supportive lifestyles; its social order
reflects fundamental principles of fairness, justice and reasonable equity.”
In simple terms, Eco-City is an ecologically healthy city that maintains equilibrium with
nature in terms of growth, consumption and excretion. Ecocity model pledges to maintain
the natural balance between resource consumption and waste assimilation without being
harsh on the dyadic [Link] Eco-City stands on the three pillars of sustainability -
Environment, Economy and Society.
Guidelines for an ecocity
An ideal eco-city has frequently been described as one that fulfills the following
requirements
[Link] on a self-contained economy that obtains resources locally
[Link] entirely carbon-neutral by promoting techniques like the use and production of
renewable energy
[Link] established over a well-planned city layout that promotes walkability, biking and the
use of public transportation systems
[Link] conservation of resource by maximizing water efficiency and energy efficiency,
while managing an ecologically beneficial waste management system that promotes
recycling and reuse to create a zero-waste system
[Link] environmentally damaged urban areas
[Link] decent and affordable housing for all socio-economic and ethnic groups and
improves jobs opportunities for disadvantaged groups, such as women, minorities, and the
disabled
[Link] local agriculture and produce
[Link] future progress and expansion over time.
Practical limits
Richard Register once stated that “An ecocity is an ecologically healthy city. No such city
exists”. Despite the conceptual ecological benefits of eco-cities, actual implementation
can be difficult to attain. The conversion of existing cities to eco-cities is uncommon
because the infrastructure, both in terms of the physical city layout and local bureaucracy,
are often major insurmountable obstacles to large-scale sustainable development.
The high cost of the technological integration necessary for eco-city development is a
major challenge, as many cities either can’t afford, or are not willing to take on, the extra
costs.
International example
[Link] City, UAE
Masdar is planned as the zero carbon and zero waste city. The city exhibits Fine example of
sustainable transport, building materials,habitats, and Wildlife. In addition to this it also
maintains food, water energy nexus for self-sustenance of the people and of the land. The
city also exhibits its deep-seated culture and heritage, equity and fair trade.
Masdar City is powered partly by on-site renewable energy and constructed using
sustainable materials. Its eco-friendly buildings are designed to reduce energy and water
consumption by at least 40 per cent — although some have surpassed this figure. Three net
zero energy buildings, which will produce as much energy as they consume
It is designed for pedestrians, oriented to channel prevailing winds and designed with
narrow, shaded streets that help the city feel 5 to 10 degrees Celsius cooler than the
surrounding area. Residents can take advantage of several electric transportation options,
including autonomous underground vehicles and above-ground buses.
The principles of designing urban architecture with minimal environmental impact are
reflected throughout Masdar City. It hosts one of the world’s largest clusters of LEED
Platinum buildings, which are constructed with low-carbon cement, recycled aluminium,
and other sustainable materials. Windows are angled and shaded to minimise direct
sunlight, and exterior walls are airtight, with high-quality insulation.
National example
[Link]- An Eco-City in India
Auroville is a township located near Pondicherry in India. This project with Over 3000
residents can accommodate upto 50,000 residents. Auroville is Categorized as ‘eco-
village’, ‘eco-city’ and ‘sustainable city’ by various Organizations. This township is built by
envisioning physical and spiritual well-being of the Society in general. Climatically, the land
is located in the semi-aired zone Which is now converted into lush forest over 50 years with
an abundant Biodiversity of animals and birds. The Auroville master plan 2025 states that,
……“The architectural designs, appropriate building technologies, Conservation approach,
rainwater harvesting, re-use and recycling of water Resources, solid waste management,
land re-generation, community Participation are some of the areas where innovative
models and techniques Have been developed and adapted in the township.”…….
This township incorporates all the principles of eco-city including low carbon Footprint,
self-reliant food, energy and water system, vernacular living, Stabilizing micro climate and
eliminating carbon waste. Thus, in order design and build eco-cities, physical, social,
environmental and economic parameters are to be set in place. It also requires an
“ecological Revolution” for us to co-exist with nature.
