Reducing Carbon: Community Strategies
Communities can make policy changes and design decisions in order to promote carbon reducing behaviors amongst the residents. Here are some ways communities can reduce carbon emissions.
BAN SINGLE USE ZONING
Cities are sprawling out. Since industrial, residential and commercial areas are spread out, suburban residents tend to emit more carbon than city residents because they need to drive everywhere. Experts believe that urban sprawl can be controlled by banning single-use zoning so residences can be closer to commerce and industry.
PROMOTE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
If more Americans used public transportation, the country could significantly reduce carbon emissions. But most people drive by themselves because it’s easier and cheaper. Communities need to provide convenient cost-effective public transit opportunities so people are enticed to choose the lower emissions travel option.
CREATE CLUSTER HOUSING
When residential developments cluster the houses close together, it leaves open space that can be preserved as nature or turned into local agricultural production. Retaining green space and having locally available agriculture are great ways to minimize carbon emissions and enhance your lifestyle by providing nearby natural surroundings. Cluster housing also tends to promote lower emission travel opportunities like walking, biking and public transportation.
COORDINATION OF SERVICES
Communities are not frequently designed with a central location for services. Since services are spread out, people are required to travel between places to get things done. That excess travel emits extra carbon. If a community had a central location offering all necessary services—such as shopping, education, and healthcare—residents could cut down on travel and reduce carbon emissions.