Green Infrastructure Overview - CSB 20503

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Questions and Answers

How does landscape resilience contribute to biodiversity conservation?

  • By providing refuge for endangered species and restoring degraded ecosystems. (correct)
  • By reducing the impact of natural disasters on ecosystems.
  • By increasing the yield of agricultural crops.
  • By promoting the growth of exotic species.

What is the key principle behind green infrastructure in urban settings?

  • Eliminating green spaces altogether.
  • Using artificial materials to create green spaces.
  • Replacing natural elements with artificial ones.
  • Integrating natural elements into the urban environment. (correct)

In the context of palm oil plantations, how does landscape resilience promote biodiversity conservation?

  • By intercropping palm oil with native tree species. (correct)
  • By clearing all natural vegetation to maximize plantation area.
  • By monoculture planting, with only palm oil trees.
  • By using large amounts of pesticides and fertilizers.

What is one way that landscape resilience helps mitigate the impact of climate change?

<p>By providing refuge for species and buffering the effects of extreme weather events. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one benefit of incorporating green spaces in urban areas?

<p>Reduced flood risk. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a benefit of landscape resilience in the context of palm oil plantations?

<p>Expansion of monoculture plantations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does landscape resilience contribute to community well-being?

<p>By providing spaces for recreation, cultural practices, and connection to nature. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a major criticism faced by the palm oil industry?

<p>Its environmental impact, including deforestation and biodiversity loss. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following ancient civilizations is NOT mentioned as having utilized gardens and aqueducts in their urban planning?

<p>Incas (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What key factor drove the emergence of modern urban planning in the 19th century?

<p>The rapid urbanization and industrialization of Western societies (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What were some of the major challenges faced by cities during the early stages of modern urban planning?

<p>Overcrowding, public health concerns, and changing transportation needs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a factor that contributed to the development of modern urban planning?

<p>The widespread adoption of sustainable building practices (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following ancient cities is NOT mentioned as part of the Indus Valley Civilization?

<p>Babylon (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary focus of the City Beautiful Movement?

<p>Creating aesthetically pleasing cities through architecture and landscape design (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of green infrastructure?

<p>High-rise office buildings (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of landscape ecology in the context of green infrastructure?

<p>It helps understand the interactions between urban environments and natural ecosystems (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a goal of green infrastructure?

<p>Economic Growth (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of the Cheonggyecheon Restoration Project in Seoul?

<p>Improved water quality (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Thimphu's Green Spaces project contribute to sustainability?

<p>Preserving green spaces and low-rise buildings (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main objective of the 'Sponge City Initiative' in China?

<p>To address urban flooding and water pollution (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main impact of Copenhagen's Bicycle Superhighways on the city?

<p>Reduced traffic congestion and air pollution (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of aqueducts in ancient cities?

<p>To transport fresh water from distant sources to urban centers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a social benefit of green infrastructure?

<p>Improved access to healthcare (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does green infrastructure contribute to climate resilience?

<p>By mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key benefit of encouraging mixed land uses in urban areas?

<p>Reduced carbon footprint (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key element of disaster preparedness?

<p>Promoting community gardening (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Singapore's 'Community in Bloom' program contribute to landscape resilience?

<p>Promotes a sense of ownership and pride among residents (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of promoting sustainable transportation in urban areas?

<p>Reducing traffic congestion and air pollution (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does green infrastructure support biodiversity in urban areas?

<p>By creating habitats for various species, including pollinators (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an example of green infrastructure in urban areas?

<p>Traditional concrete structures (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of compact and efficient urban design in promoting sustainability?

<p>It reduces dependence on cars and promotes walkability (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is Singapore often cited as a model for landscape resilience?

<p>Its innovative water management and green infrastructure initiatives (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of water management strategies in urban areas?

<p>To reduce the risk of flooding and water scarcity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does community engagement contribute to disaster preparedness?

<p>It fosters a sense of responsibility and collective action (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a feature of the Forest City development in Johor?

<p>A focus on traditional agriculture (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Rainforest Discovery Centre in Sandakan, Sabah?

<p>Providing a research hub for rainforest conservation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a 'green station'?

<p>A bus station with solar panels (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of Landscape Ecology?

<p>The interactions between natural and human-made features in the landscape (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the Klang Valley MRT contribute to sustainable urban transportation?

<p>By incorporating features like green stations and park-and-ride facilities (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of 'green infrastructure' as discussed in the text?

<p>Focus on traditional agricultural practices (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which development project serves as an example of how green infrastructure can be integrated into an urban landscape?

<p>All of the above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key concept that connects the examples of green infrastructure projects discussed in the text?

<p>Sustainable land use and environmental conservation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant influence on urban development during the post-World War II era?

<p>The expansion of transportation systems, such as the interstate highway system (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key goal of Green Infrastructure (GI)?

<p>Promoting economic growth and job creation in urban areas (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of Green Infrastructure (GI)?

<p>To improve urban environmental quality while promoting sustainability and resilience (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How have historical green infrastructures contributed to urban environments?

<p>By enhancing the aesthetic appeal of urban areas and providing recreational spaces (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Green Infrastructure contribute to mitigating urban heat?

<p>By creating shade and promoting airflow through vegetation and green spaces (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the "smart city" initiative in relation to modern urban planning?

<p>It emphasizes the use of technology and data to drive urban planning decisions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key principle of sustainable urban planning?

<p>Integrating green infrastructure into urban design (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Suburbanization

The shift of populations from urban areas to suburbs, particularly after World War II.

Mass Housing Projects

Large-scale construction of residential buildings to accommodate growing populations.

Interstate Highway System

A network of highways that facilitates long-distance travel and influences urban development.

Sustainability in Urban Planning

The practice of designing cities to meet current needs without compromising the future's resources or environment.

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Smart Cities

Urban areas that utilize technology and data to enhance living conditions and urban services.

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Green Infrastructure (GI)

An interconnected network of natural areas and green spaces to improve environmental quality.

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Managing Stormwater

Strategies used in green infrastructure to handle rainwater and reduce flooding risks.

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Cultural Significance of Gardens

Gardens historically serve as spaces for rituals, reflection, and community significance, like sacred groves.

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Green Infrastructure

Natural and semi-natural systems providing environmental benefits in urban areas.

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Historical Urban Planning

Development of city layouts from ancient civilizations to modern times.

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Indus Valley Civilization

Early urban society known for advanced infrastructure from 3300 to 1300 BCE.

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Modern Urban Planning

Evolution of city design influenced by industrialization and urbanization in the 19th century.

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City Beautiful Movement

An initiative aimed at creating aesthetically pleasing urban environments through design.

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Green Roofs

Vegetated roof systems that provide insulation, reduce runoff, and improve aesthetics.

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Parks and Wetlands

Natural spaces within urban areas that support biodiversity and community health.

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Zoning Regulations

Rules governing land use in urban areas, introduced to manage growth.

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Climate Change Adaptation

Strategies that enable species to survive changing climate conditions, such as floods and heat.

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Biodiversity Conservation

Efforts to protect endangered species and restore ecosystems.

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Ecosystem Services

Benefits provided by ecosystems, including clean water and pollination.

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Disaster Risk Reduction

Strategies to lessen the impact of natural disasters like hurricanes and wildfires.

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Sustainable Land Use Planning

Framework ensuring human activities respect ecological principles.

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Flood Mitigation

Using green spaces to absorb rainwater and reduce flooding risks.

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Cooling Effects of Green Spaces

Green areas help reduce urban heat by providing shade and cooling.

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Sustainable Land Use

Management of land resources to meet current needs without compromising future generation’s needs.

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Educational & Recreational Space

Areas designed for both learning and leisure activities. They enhance community wellness.

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Klang Valley MRT

A mass rapid transit system in Malaysia that promotes sustainable urban transport.

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Forest City

An eco-friendly urban development in Johor, Malaysia with green designs and sustainable features.

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Rainforest Discovery Centre

An educational eco-tourism hub in Sabah focusing on rainforest conservation and research.

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Landscape Ecology

The study of spatial patterns and ecological processes in landscapes influenced by human activity.

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Aqueducts

Ingenious systems transporting fresh water to urban areas.

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Environmental Sustainability

Meeting current needs without compromising future resources.

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Urban Resilience

Ability of cities to adapt to environmental challenges.

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Sponge City Initiative

Projects using green infrastructure to manage urban flooding.

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Cheonggyecheon Restoration

Revitalization of the Cheonggyecheon River in Seoul.

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Mixed Land Uses

Combining residential, commercial, and recreational spaces in urban planning.

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Urban Sprawl

Uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural land.

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Community Engagement

Involvement of residents in planning and decision-making processes.

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Disaster Preparedness

Plans and measures taken to handle emergencies and disasters.

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Landscape Resilience

Ability of an urban landscape to adapt and recover from environmental shocks.

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Green Spaces

Public parks, gardens, and nature areas within urban environments.

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Water Management

Strategies and practices to efficiently manage water resources.

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Sustainable Transportation

Transport methods that are eco-friendly and reduce pollution.

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Study Notes

Course Information

  • Course code: CSB 20503
  • Course title: Green Infrastructure, Smart Cities & Societies
  • Topic 1: Overview of Definitions, Goals, and Objectives of Green Infrastructure

Points of Discussion

  • Explore the historical development of green infrastructure
  • Examine green infrastructure components (wetlands, green roofs, parks, etc.)
  • Understand the significance of landscape ecology
  • Analyze the importance of resilience for urban areas

Historical Development of Urban Infrastructure

  • Indus Valley Civilization (3300 BCE to 1300 BCE):
    • One of the world's earliest urban societies
    • Thrived in modern-day India and Pakistan
    • Showed sophisticated urban planning and infrastructure
    • Notable centers included Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa
  • Ancient Civilizations:
    • Mesopotamians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans
    • Made remarkable use of gardens and aqueducts in urban planning
    • These practices were integral to urban centers' functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability

Historical Urban Infrastructures

  • Grid layout
  • Sanitation
  • Artifacts and Craftsmanship
  • Urban Architecture

Emergence in Modern Urban Planning

  • Interplay of historical, socio-economic, and technological factors in the evolution of modern urban planning
  • Urban planning traced back to the 19th century with rapid urbanization and industrialization
  • Key drivers of modern urban planning: industrialization, factory growth and rural population influx, overcrowding, public health concerns, and evolving transportation (railroads and automobiles)
  • Economic factors (land speculation and zoning regulations, e.g., New York City's 1916 zoning resolution) shaped urban planning
  • City Beautiful Movement aimed at creating aesthetically pleasing urban environments through architectural and landscape design
  • Post-World War II: shift toward suburbanization and mass housing projects influenced by modern transportation systems (interstate highway system)
  • Growth of suburbs and increased car use impacted urban spatial organization

New Planning Concepts and Strategies

  • Increasing focus on sustainability and green urban planning
  • Rise of smart city initiatives emphasizes technology and data-driven decision-making in modern urban planning
  • Impact of modern urban planning includes improved sanitation, public health outcomes, efficient transportation networks, improved quality of life through parks and public spaces

Definition of Green Infrastructure

  • Green Infrastructure (GI) is an interconnected network of natural and semi-natural areas (parks, forests, wetlands, green roofs, and urban gardens)
  • Primary goal to enhance urban environmental quality while promoting sustainability and resilience
  • Key goals include managing stormwater, reducing flood risk, improving air quality, mitigating urban heat islands, enhancing biodiversity, and creating accessible green spaces for community well-being

Historical Green Infrastructures

  • Water Supply: Ingenious systems transporting water from distant sources
  • Irrigation
  • Sewage Systems (like aqueducts) allowed cities to access clean water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation, reducing waterborne diseases
  • Aesthetics and Recreation – natural cooling systems, cultural and religious significance
  • Agriculture

Green Infrastructure Goals

  • Environmental Sustainability
  • Ecosystem Services
  • Climate Resilience
  • Biodiversity Conservation
  • Human Wellbeing
  • Urban Planning & Land Use
  • Socioeconomic Benefits
  • Community Engagement
  • Water Management
  • Disaster Resilience

Successful Green Infrastructure Projects

  • Copenhagen Bicycle Superhighways: connected city with suburbs, reduced traffic congestion, and promoted healthier lifestyle
  • Sponge City Initiative (China): address flood risks and water pollution improvement
  • Cheonggyecheon Restoration (Seoul): restored river, created more green space, improved water quality
  • Thimphu's Green Spaces (Bhutan): preservation of green spaces and low-rise urban environment
  • Putrajaya (Malaysia): showcased various green infrastructure projects

Prominent Green Infrastructure in Malaysia

  • Forest City
  • Rainforest Discovery Centre

Landscape Ecology

  • Interdisciplinary scientific study of the relationship between spatial patterns and ecological processes on various landscape scales
  • Combines ecology, geography, and spatial analysis
  • Investigates interactions between natural and human-made features of landscapes, their impact on the environment

Key Concepts of Landscape Ecology

  • Landscape heterogeneity
  • Scale metrics
  • Patch dynamics
  • Connectivity

Significance of Landscape Ecology

  • Biodiversity conservation
  • Ecosystem services
  • Land use planning
  • Climate change mitigation
  • Human-wildlife conflict mitigation

Landscape Ecology: Malaysian Perspective

  • Biodiversity hotspot: understanding and conserving biodiversity
  • Palm oil industry: analyzing its impacts on ecosystems
  • Rainforests and conservation: preserving ecosystems
  • Urbanization: understanding urban landscapes in order to design for sustainability(urban heat islands, green space, and water management)
  • Water resources: using sustainable water management strategies.
  • Community engagement: respecting local knowledge to promote conservation efforts and ensure sustainability
  • Climate change mitigation: designing strategies for carbon sequestration and adaption

Case Study: New Tioman International Airport

  • Plan rejected in 2009 due to significant environmental impacts on the island.
  • Construction would reclaim 64 hectares within the Marine Park and destroy coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangroves and lowland forests.
  • Increased tourism would strain limited natural resources.

Landscape Resilience

  • Capacity of landscapes to withstand and adapt to disturbances
  • Holistic approach to understand and manage landscapes in response to environmental changes, anthropogenic impacts and natural disasters

Significance of Landscape Resilience

  • Climate change adaptation
  • Biodiversity conservation
  • Provision of ecosystem services
  • Disaster risk reduction

Case Study: Landscape Resilience in Malaysian Palm Oil Plantations

  • Malaysia is a significant palm oil producer
  • Palm oil industry criticised for deforestation, biodiversity loss, and emissions
  • Sustainable land management (maintaining riparian zones, buffer areas, and natural vegetation corridors)
  • Resilient agriculture practices (intercropping palm oil with native tree species)
  • Incorporating community members through landscape resilience initiatives

Landscape Resilience in Urban Settings

  • Green infrastructure integration (parks, urban forests, wetlands, green roofs)
  • Flood mitigation: utilizing natural spaces to manage stormwater
  • Cooling effects: using vegetation and other elements to cool urban areas
  • Biodiversity conservation (creating habitats)
  • Smart urban design
    • Mixed land uses: fostering walkability
    • Compact and efficient design
    • Community engagement
  • Disaster preparedness: developing evacuation plans, strengthening infrastructure

Case Study: Singapore – A Model of Landscape Resilience

  • Cited as a model for landscape resilience in urban environments
  • Extensive green spaces (rooftop gardens, parks, and reserves)
  • Innovative water management (flooding control and scarcity)
  • Strong community involvement (Community in Bloom program)
  • Sustainable transportation system (focus on walking, cycling, and public transport)

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