Popular Science just published an interesting roundup of green communities in an article now titled, "Nine of the World's Most Promising Carbon-Neutral Communities." You'll recognize several of these communities as we've mentioned them previously. What's important is the notion that reducing an environmental impact can be ultra effective when done on a large scale.
In 2008, we first looked at this Eco-Laboratory concept for a living building, which won the Natural Design Talent Competition in 2008. Designed by a team from Weber Thompson, the Eco-Laboratory is now featured in a short film that explains the benefits of vertical farming.
Natural Home just published a top 10 list of its favorite eco-friendly, energy-efficient communities in the nation. If there’s anything to note, it may be that the Pacific Northwest is ahead of the game when it comes to green planning and thoughtful communities. Here’s a quick look at each of the 10 communities; make sure to check out the original article – America’s Top 10 Best Green-Built Neighborhoods – for more information.
When the topic turns to urban farming, perhaps you envision one of those conceptual skyscraper farms proposed by the likes of Dickson Despommier, Gordon Graff, or SOA Architects. But urban farming doesn't necessarily need to be done in a skyscraper, as evidenced by a recent article by Thair Shaikh of CNN. Urban gardening isn't new either.
Dockside Green is an award-winning development located in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Within the 1.3 million square-foot, mixed-use community, all of the buildings, except the restaurant and pub facilities, have committed to obtaining LEED Platinum certification under the applicable Canadian LEED rating system.
We've heard about ecocities in far away lands, but now there's one planned for the Unities States. Located near Fort Meyers, Florida, Babcock Ranch will be powered entirely by solar power. It's a bold and progressive plan, and if Kitson & Partners can secure all the necessary regulatory approvals, construction will begin this year. The city includes a 75-megawatt, on-site, photovoltaic facility constructed by Florida Power & Light for nearly $350 million.
