'Ventilation Corridors' Funnel Cool Mountain Air Into Steamy Stuttgart

The Omaha City Council’s Master Plan’s Environment Element report of proposed strategies and goals related to climate action was left largely forgotten and ignored for two decades. Experts say the city’s new plan should be more actionable, a real commitment, and have a dedicated staff.

A global movement to localize the construction process, and design buildings for the climate they reside in, is bringing back practices like green roofs and using natural materials like mud and salt to keep people cool as the planet warms.

Environmental groups and policymakers around the world are softening their stances against nuclear power in the face of today’s climate and energy realities. As the second-largest source of carbon-free electricity, nuclear power can have several advantages. In the U.S. alone, the use of nuclear power in 2020 prevented more than 471 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions – the equivalent of removing 100 million cars from the road.

Green Means Go identifies central parts of cities called “Green Zones” and then makes efforts to increase infill housing where services already exist for residents and improve access to alternative, more “green" modes of transportation, and reduce commute times. Less vehicle commuting means fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Out of 28 local jurisdictions, 23 have already adopted Green Zones.

New Mexico's universal childcare program draws from an endowment fund and other public funds to offset the cost of running childcare centers and make care more accessible for families, with 48,000 children now receiving care at no cost. But the program's price tag is expected to continue to grow and a significant number of families still haven't gotten access to the free slots.

Local real estate developer Lodha Group created Palava City, a 5,000-acre experimental community using creative green building techniques and layout initiatives, supporting its mission of creating a net-zero community. The city is being developed in phases on a community level, without the restrictions of local government, and plans to house about two million residents. Those already living in the community praise its energy efficiency and walkability compared to nearby cities.

Due to its sustainable design, the Corolla Light Resort has seen far less seawater intrusion and damage to properties compared to other Outer Banks resorts, plus much healthier dune structures. With 450 privately owned and managed homes, over half of which are dedicated to vacationon rentals, coordinated limited development has led to some of the tallest dunes on the island and minimal erosion.

Medellín, Colombia, is combating the urban heat island effect by creating green corridors across the city. Over 2.5 million plants and trees were carefully selected to maximize impact and planted on buildings and along roads and waterways.

The 15-minute city is an urban planning concept that encourages planners to develop neighborhoods that are easily accessible within a 15-minute walk, bike or public transit ride. The 15-minute city idea promotes health and wellness by encouraging residents to walk and bike more, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and fosters a sense of community among locals.

Federal tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act and added incentives from the state of Colorado and its municipalities is drawing in clean energy companies, creating new jobs, and helping the state meet its decarbonization goals.