Sunday 23 November 2008

Urban regeneration in Kurdistan,How green is the developer?

In 2009/2010 I will be presenting a seminar/lecture in the University of Kurdistan in Hawler as part of series of seminars/lectures that will cover the Urban Regeneration in Kurdistan.

I will be looking at the following areas both critically and constructively, pointing out existing projects that are taking to accounts areas that other developers need to learn and take notice.

Environmental impact of new urban development is one of the key strategies of any new project.
Responsible developer will need to take in to account what impact will it have on the immediate local area, both during the life time of the development and after it is handed over to the people.

What is its carbon footprint during development and after wards when people move in to the properties?
How environmentally friendly is the building, is installation both for winter and summer well considered.
How well plan is recycling and waste management of the site after it is fully occupied.
If electricity and water is supplied as part of the project, what is the long-term plan to join the National Grid when it is fully operational?How and who administer the services once is fully operational.
How well do the scheme take advantage of alternative energy generation from sun and wind for public spaces as well as individual buildings?
There are compelling evidence that once you have local population involved in developing the scheme, and have clear policy of inclusion in the project, the entire development is more successful and there will be a sense of belonging,ownership and pride by the people who occupy the properties.

In addition the environmental policy of the Government will need to be reviewed.
How committed are the people of Kurdistan?waste management at the moment in Kurdistan is a challenge,education on recycling is just starting.
Residents of Dehok,Hawler,Kerkuk and Slemani are beginning to understand the importance of recycling, currently the policy of waste management is at its infancy.
What can we learn from other cities that have gone down this road, what are the steps we need to take to reach that level.

I am sure there will be more to discuss, one thing I am certain that there is a will by the residents of all these 4 cities to make life better and more prosperous.
Cleaner and healthier living and more green can help our cities to look and feel better to live in.

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