When people think of environmentalism, the first things that come to mind are typically things like conserving energy or reducing waste. But what about the way our towns and cities are designed? Urban planners have a lot of power to make places more environmentally friendly, and there are a number of ways they can do it. Here are four examples.

1. Create more green spaces

Town planning can encourage residents to spend time outside by creating parks, open zoos, gardens and other attractive green spaces. This is good for the planet because plants clean the air around them by absorbing carbon dioxide, so having lots of trees in a neighbourhood is another way that town planners can help slow global warming. They can also choose to plant drought-resistant vegetation if water conservation is essential to them as well. It also helps plants and wildlife thrive.

2. Encourage walking and biking by creating pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly streets

Some cities are now implementing bans on cars in certain areas, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to take over. This makes streets safer for children, older people, and pets because fewer moving vehicles are around. It can also encourage residents to get more exercise by walking or biking instead of driving everywhere.

3. Build more energy-efficient buildings that use less electricity and water

A city's design affects the amount of energy needed to heat it in winter and cool it in summer. Communities with lots of high rises or vast streets will need more power than ones with smaller homes clustered together or roads that aren't as wide. Planners can choose where they build so that there is enough open space between buildings to reduce the need for heating/cooling.

4. Promote the use of public transportation to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution

In large cities where it is difficult or expensive to build enough roads for everyone who wants to drive a car, planners might choose a metro system or other type of public transport instead. Doing so cuts down on carbon dioxide emissions from fuel-burning vehicles because fewer people are driving them. Exhaust fumes contribute to climate change, so reducing them can only be good.

If you are planning a construction project and are interested in finding out more, you should contact your local town planning department today. A member of staff will be happy to discuss how town planning can impact the environment.

For more information on town planning, contact a company near you.