Vision

Ecological Cities are those which:

• comprise networks of high and medium density urban settlements of limited size separated by green spaces, with most people living within walking, cycling or public transport distance of their workplace.

• are threaded with natural habitat corridors, to foster biodiversity and to give residents access to nature for recreation.

• incorporate natural ecosystems into urban areas, to host local wildlife, and to enhance the experience of urban public spaces.

• use vegetation to control urban microclimates – to stabilise temperature and humidity.

• enhance the life of the community and relationships between people, by creating convivial social environments.

• support an innovative culture which enables people to flourish and develop their creative potential, and use new technologies to improve liveability.

• have frequent public transport connecting local centres.

• comprise buildings that make the best use of sun, wind and rainfall to supply the energy and water needs of occupants.  These should include multi-storey buildings to maximize the land available for green space.

• contain industry and commerce that minimise the throughput of raw materials, that involve the re-use and recycling of materials and minimise the transportation of materials.

• produce much of their own food and other goods within their borders or from nearby areas.