The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) latest report focuses on relatively low cost strategies to reduce the emissions of global warming gases -- at least when compared to cost of inaction.
Among the suggested reduction strategies:
"ARCHITECTURE
Wider use can be made of passive solar design; high-efficiency lighting and appliances, ventilation and cooling systems; solar water heaters; modern insulation and techniques; high-reflectivity building materials; and multiple glazing. Governments can contribute by continuously updating their building codes and appliance standards.
TRANSPORTATION
Emerging technology like directed-injection turbocharged diesel engines, improved vehicle batteries, regenerative breaking, high-efficiency propulsion systems for trains, and blended wing bodies and unducted turbofan propulsion systems for airplanes could increase efficiency. Biofuels also have the potential to replace a substantial part of the petroleum now used in transportation.
AGRICULTURE
Farming methods can be altered to "sequester" more carbon in the soil rather than release it into the atmosphere, for example by restoring organic soils that are drained for crop production. Smaller but still significant reductions are possible with other changes, including improved water and rice management; wider adoption of agroforestry; and improved livestock and manure management."
FULL STORY: Highlights from the IPCC Report
Americans May Be Stuck — But Why?
Americans are moving a lot less than they once did, and that is a problem. While Yoni Applebaum, in his highly-publicized article Stuck, gets the reasons badly wrong, it's still important to ask: why are we moving so much less than before?
Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.
Placekeeping: Setting a New Precedent for City Planners
How a preservation-based approach to redevelopment and urban design can prevent displacement and honor legacy communities.
San Francisco’s Muni Ridership Grew in 2024
The system saw its highest ridership since before the Covid-19 pandemic, but faces a severe budget shortage in the coming year.
Colorado Lawmakers Move to Protect BRT Funding
In the face of potential federal funding cuts, CDOT leaders reasserted their commitment to planned bus rapid transit projects.
Safe Streets Funding in Jeopardy
The Trump administration is specifically targeting bike infrastructure and other road safety projects in its funding cuts.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
City of Moreno Valley
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
City of Cambridge, Maryland