Sharing the learnings from C40 Cities’ report: "Achieving a Decarbonised and Climate-Resilient Built Environment".
Now more than ever, we need to intensify our efforts in making cities climate-resilient in the face of the climate crisis unfolding before us.
Here are the key learnings:
LOCATION & SITE CHOICES:
- Challenges: Building in hazard-prone areas increases social and financial costs during extreme events.
- Solutions: Implement nature-based solutions like riparian buffers, permeable pavements, and rain gardens.
For example:
- Rio de Janeiro's flood alert system provides early warnings to low-income communities, reducing flood impacts.
DESIGN CHOICES:
- Challenges: Modern designs often neglect local climate conditions, leading to high energy use and increased climate risks.
- Solutions: Use passive design strategies (e.g., natural ventilation, reflective surfaces) and integrate traditional architecture.
Example:
- The Eastgate Building in Zimbabwe uses passive cooling inspired by termite mounds, reducing energy use by 90%.
MATERIALS CHOICES:
- Challenges: Common materials like concrete and steel have high carbon footprints and contribute to climate risks like urban heat islands.
- Solutions: Use sustainable materials such as mass timber, engineered bamboo, and recycled steel.
Example:
- Base Bahay in the Philippines constructs affordable, resilient bamboo homes, reducing emissions by 74%.
To read the full report, search for "Achieving a Decarbonised and Climate-Resilient Built Environment"
Image from Midjourney: bird's eye view of a climate-resilient city
Work progress is well underway at Aquarabia Park, the first water entertainment park of its kind in Saudi Arabia, and the largest in the Middle East with an area of 250,000 square meters. Set to open its doors in 2025 alongside Six Flags Qiddiya City, Aquarabia Park marks a significant milestone in the realm of entertainment and tourism development in the region.
Aquarabia Park boasts eight distinct areas that collectively offer 22 different water games and experiences, including the groundbreaking underwater adventure trip featuring diving vehicles. This innovative concept aims to revolutionize water park entertainment, promising visitors an unparalleled and immersive experience unlike any other.
Designed to embody the essence of Saudi hospitality and adventure, Aquarabia Park is not just about thrilling rides; it's about creating lasting memories for families and individuals alike. With four world-record-breaking rides and a host of other attractions, the park caters to a wide range of preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Adjacent to Aquarabia Park, Six Flags Qiddiya City adds another layer of excitement to the entertainment landscape. With twenty-eight rides and attractions, including five record-breaking coasters, Six Flags promises an adrenaline-fueled experience that will leave visitors craving more.
Situated within Qiddiya City, both Aquarabia Park and Six Flags Qiddiya City are poised to offer visitors a seamless and exhilarating entertainment experience. The master-planned destination ensures that every aspect of the visitor experience is carefully curated, from innovative design to sustainability initiatives.
One of the key highlights of these developments is their alignment with Saudi Vision 2030's goals. By creating an expected 10,000 jobs and focusing on environmental conservation, Aquarabia Park and Six Flags Qiddiya City contribute to economic diversification and foster local tourism, thus supporting the broader vision of the Kingdom's ambitious development agenda.
Moreover, sustainability lies at the core of Qiddiya City's ethos. Both Aquarabia Park and Six Flags Qiddiya City incorporate state-of-the-art technology for water use and waste management, underscoring their commitment to environmental stewardship. These initiatives not only enhance the visitor experience but also ensure that the developments remain environmentally responsible for generations to come.