Worldwide, the political and environmental climate dictates
the moral obligation for humanity to be sustainable. As a consequence, cities
who recognise this facet are the ultimate beneficiaries, and are able to enjoy
rewards which transcend initial ecological concerns. Copenhagen is a case in
point. Due to a transport network which places a heavy emphasis on public
transport and cycling, Copenhagen is on track to become the first carbon
neutral capital city in the world by 2025. This would be an extraordinary feat,
considering they only began to take sustainable action in 2005.
Changes to infrastructure have revolutionised the way
residents commute, as citizens are able to cycle short distances to public
transport networks, hop on and off with their bikes, before continuing on to
their next destination. Due to its efficiency, this method is more popular than
driving a car. By reducing CO2 emissions, this action gives rise to a multitude
of reactions that can be tied back to economic benefits. Cleaner air and
extensive cycle networks leads to improved health, reducing government funding
for public health care. Furthermore, improved health and reduced congestion
leads to increased production which, in turn, provides the funds necessary to
facilitate further sustainable initiatives. In Copenhagen, an example of this
was their initiative to improve their marine environment by cleaning the water
in their harbour. Due to the fact that 'being green' is marketable, such
actions contribute to the process which has seen an increase in tourism and
real estate prices.
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