Pollution, congestion, noise, unfriendly public space… is this what awaits humanity as 70% of the global population lives in cities by 2050? Most likely, the answer is no—judging by recent developments in various European cities and by the visionary work of urban planners, urban designers and architects. This long essay takes us on a tour of Europe to discover several initiatives aimed at reducing automobile traffic, and to meet with experts and thought leaders who strive “to rebalance the public space and create a city for people,” as one of them puts it. “Less pollution, less noise, less stress; a more walkable city,” a scenario that technology and the sharing economy have already brought closer to reality in many places.
Cities are growing smarter, greener, more human-friendly
More of Today's Solutions
Scotland legalizes water cremation, giving families a greener third option
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM A quick note: this article walks through how water cremation works, including some detail about the process. If ...
Read MoreSimply listening to nature is good for your health
There are few things as relaxing as the whisper of wind through the trees or the camping sound of a mountain stream, but it ...
Read MoreThis device helps farmers raise happier, healthier cows
Dairy farmers have a regular problem when it comes to testing their cows’ health and the quality of their milk. They have to ship ...
Read MoreZumba: The workout that turns fitness haters into dance floor enthusiasts
One faithful day in Colombia in the 1990s, a fitness instructor realized he forgot his usual workout playlist and sparked a spontaneous dance session ...
Read More
