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A Guide to Community Engagement
Community engagement refers to working collaboratively with a local community to identify solutions, policies or initiatives that meet its needs. Through such engagement efforts can foster collaboration, trust and ownership leading to more successful results. Tools of community engagement such as surveys and questionnaires, interview software, focus groups and qualitative analysis can all play an…
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The Importance of Digital Governance
Digital governance is the framework that ensures digital tools are used ethically and effectively, from creating policies and procedures, enforcing them, as well as cultivating a culture which fosters participation. Two distinct visions of digital governance are emerging. One model emphasizes authoritarianism by advocating “cyber sovereignty”, enabling governments to restrict internet access and enforce data…
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The Benefits of Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) operate solely on electricity instead of fossil fuel, eliminating harmful emissions while simultaneously helping lower utility bills by encouraging drivers to charge at home instead of charging during peak times and relieving stress on the grid. However, electric vehicles (EVs) still present some significant obstacles to widespread adoption. Some of the key…
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Carbon Capture and Storage
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is an innovative technique used to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from industrial processes. CCS works by sequestering CO2 within geologic formations deep underground for long-term safe storage. CO2 captured from flue gas is then stored in underground rock formations such as depleted oil and gas reservoirs or saline aquifers, making…
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Climate Change Mitigation
Climate change mitigation entails reducing heat-trapping greenhouse gases (GHGs). It involves conserving energy and switching over to clean sources like solar or wind power; conserving forests as carbon sinks; as well as protecting ecosystems that act as carbon sinks. UNDP is working with partners around the globe to combat climate change through climate mitigation projects…
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What Is Energy Policy and How Does It Work?
Energy policies seek to promote renewable and efficient energy sources and mitigate climate change impacts by regulating energy markets, imposing carbon pricing mechanisms and providing incentives or subsidies. Examples of energy policies include taxes that influence consumption by raising or suppressing prices, government ownership of natural monopolies, fuel-economy standards for automobiles and other means that…
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Green Buildings
Green buildings are essential to sustainable development. Their innovative sustainability strategies reduce energy use and environmental impact while offering cost savings to building owners. Once considered a costly experiment, these smart buildings now deliver lower operating costs and improved financial results than their standard counterparts. Energy Efficiency Buildings account for an immense percentage of global…
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Mixed-Use Developments Encourage a Sense of Community
Mixed-use developments provide residents and visitors alike with multiple amenities in one location, from shopping and restaurants to housing and offices. Furthermore, these mixed-use developments foster a sense of community among its inhabitants. Additionally, diversifying revenue streams can reduce market volatility’s impact on projects. That is why having an experienced construction management team on board…
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Sustainable Urban Infrastructure
Sustainable urban infrastructure is an emerging field encompassing engineering, economics, social sciences and environmental sciences. Key themes include governance and engineered facilities and utilities. Many cities are creating resilient communities through climate mitigation and adaptation measures, often turning cement and tarmac surfaces into green, absorbent spaces such as rain gardens. 1. Green Infrastructure Green infrastructure…
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Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)
TOD stands for Transit-Oriented Development, or more commonly known as transit oriented development, which refers to dense neighborhoods constructed near public transit stations with greater density. Such TODs offer the ideal balance of dense urban form and public transport use. Calthorpe’s research1 proves TOD generates far less traffic and parking requirements compared to traditional auto-oriented…
