The concept of eco-city was introduced by Richard Register in his book “Ecocity Berkeley: Building Cities for a Healthy Future (1987).”
The World Bank defines eco-cities as “cities that enhance the well-being of citizens and society through integrated urban planning and management that harness the benefits of ecological systems and protect and nurture these assets for future generations”. Although there is no universally accepted definition of an ‘eco-city’, among available definitions, there is some consensus on the basic features of an eco-city.
Eco-cities are commonly found to focus on new-build developments, especially in developing nations such as China, wherein foundations are being laid for new eco-cities catering to 500,000 or more inhabitants.
Features of an eco-city:
- Pollution is kept to the minimum.
- Use of fossil fuels is reduced or eliminated.
- Renewable energy sources like wind turbines, solar panels, bio-gas from sewage etc. are used.
- Waste is recycled.
- Buildings are built in accordance with green norms.
- At least 20 per cent of the city surface is covered with water features and green space.
- Energy-efficient public transport, footpaths and biking routes reduce the use of cars.
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