3675 - Assignment 1

M.
Sc SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT
Course: Sustainable Communities (3675) Semester: Autumn, 2020
ASSIGNMENT - 1
STUDENT NAME: ADEEL HAIDER RAZI
ROLL NO. CA565459
Q.1 Explain the principles of sustainable development. What are the factors involved
in sustainability techniques that applied to create sustainability checklist?
1.1. Sustainable Development

Sustainable Development (SD) has become a ubiquitous development paradigm—the
catchphrase for international aid agencies, the jargon of development planners, the theme of
conferences and academic papers, as well as the slogan of development and environmental
activists (Ukaga, Maser, & Reichenbach, 2011). The concept seems to have attracted the broad-
based attention that other development concept lack(ed), and appears poised to remain the
pervasive development paradigm for a long time (Scopelliti et al., 2018; Shepherd et al., 2016).
However, notwithstanding its pervasiveness and popularity, murmurs of disenchantment about
the concept are rife as people continue to ask questions about its meaning or definition and
what it entails as well as implies for development theory and practice, without clear answers
forthcoming (Montaldo, 2013; Shahzalal & Hassan, 2019; Tolba, 1984). SD therefore stands
the risk of becoming a cliché like appropriate technology—a fashionable and rhetoric phrase—
to which everyone pays homage but nobody seems to define with precision and exactitude
(Mensah & Enu-Kwesi, 2018; Tolba, 1984).
The 1972 UN conference in Stockholm highlighted the concerns for preserving and enhancing
the environment and its biodiversity to ensure human rights to a healthy and productive world.
The developing countries argued that their priority was development, whereas the developed
countries made a case for environmental protection and conservation as the prime issue.
Figure 1: Sustainable Development Goals
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 1

M.Sc SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT
1.2. Key Factors Influencing Sustainable Development

Following are different factors which affect sustainable development
1.2.1. New Global Development Goals Must Look to the Future
The world looks quite different today than it did in the 1990s when the MDGs were conceived.
It will look even more different in 2030. For the next set of global goals to succeed, they must
grapple with several paradigm-changing trends.
First, the location of poverty is shifting. Today, India and China house more than half of the
1.3 billion people still living under $1.25 a day. Most poor people in the next 10 to 15 years
will likely be concentrated in Africa and other fragile states.
Second, inequality is on the rise, undermining efforts to reduce poverty and promote
sustainable development in both poor and rich countries. Asia’s widening inequality gap, for
example, reportedly held back 240 million people from escaping extreme poverty over the past
20 years.
Third, dangerous environmental thresholds are being crossed at an alarming rate. About 1.2
billion people live in water-scarce regions today, and 1.8 billion people may do so by 2025.
Concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere already exceeds 390 parts per million
(ppm), although most scientists argue that the threshold to avoid catastrophic climate change
is 350 ppm. If we are already exceeding planetary limits, how will Earth absorb a global
economy that is four times larger in 2050?
These trends hold two lessons for the next set of development goals: Africa and fragile states
are central to solving the poverty challenge; and sustainability and equity must be embedded
in all development efforts.
1.2.2. Goals need to be Multi-Dimensional and Universal
The MDGs were responsible for spurring progress in tackling extreme poverty, but they
prioritized social needs over economic and environmental ones. Future development goals will
need to combine these three dimensions to be effective. Public health goals, for example,
should promote clean air and water; energy goals should set targets for energy efficiency and
the use of wind and solar power, as well as for universal access to electricity.
At the same time, we will need to set explicit universal goals to address global sustainability
challenges, such as climate change and deforestation. The MDGs, by contrast, focus the burden
of action on developing countries.
Beyond engaging all countries, universality must also embrace the explosion of new players
seeking to combat poverty, including emerging powers like China and Brazil, and private
foundations.
1.2.3. Goals Should be Few, Focused, and Simple
Sustainable development means many things to many people, and the prospect of global goals
has already produced a vast array of proposals from governments and civil society.
Some focus on sustainability, including goals for protecting biodiversity, oceans, and clean
water, and promoting sustainable cities. Others are tightly tethered to the current MDGs –
proposing goals that would focus on poverty, health, education, and gender, with only a nod to
topics like sustainable development or infrastructure. Dozens more groups are advocating one
particular goal or theme, such as peace, human rights, or climate change.

Given these competing agendas, tough choices will need to be made. Prioritizing and
simplifying areas for action will be critical to producing SDGs that are practical, actionable,
and that can deliver measurable results.
1.2.4. Goals Must Belong to Everyone
The discussion of how to shape global development beyond 2015 must go far beyond the UN
system, traditional aid agencies, and civil society. Most importantly, the new development
agenda must empower the poor. Eradicating extreme poverty is a realistic goal, but it will only
succeed if we heed poor communities’ own views of what they need.
At the same time, new goals must speak to and inspire not only governments and aid agencies,
but the private sector, investors, and the public at large. To succeed, we should ask ourselves:
What kind of goals could spur action not only in Kenya or Brazil, but also with the giant U.S.
pension funds and major, multinational corporations?
1.3. Shaping the Global Development Agenda
Delegates at the packed event, hosted by the Economic and Financial Committee of the UN
General Assembly, embraced the urgent need for global development goals that reflect today’s
rapidly changing world. Among the major questions we wrestled with were how to achieve an
agenda that is both transformative and pragmatic? And whether wealthy countries should set
different objectives than developing ones?
The aim of the event was to inform the thinking of the intergovernmental open working
group and high-level panel on the post-2015 development agenda, which will take the SDGs
process forward. I think we achieved that goal, and WRI looks forward to helping shape the
global development agenda in the days and months ahead.
Reference:
1. Class lectures
2. https://www.wri.org/

Q.2 How creation of eco-villages can be achieved on the principle of think globally
and act locally/ Share example?
1. Eco-Village
Ecovillages are small, self-sufficient communities that live from and for their natural
surroundings. There are more than 10,000 ecovillages in the world, mainly in rural areas where
their inhabitants build societies based on cooperation, self-sufficiency, renewable energies and
ecological materials. Find out how they work.
Figure 2: Most ecovillages have between 50 and 250 inhabitants.

An eco-village is defined by Global Ecovillage Network as, “An intentional or traditional
community using local participatory processes to holistically integrate ecological, economic,
social, and cultural dimensions of sustainability in order to regenerate social and natural
environments.”
They are essentially designed communities which strive to produce the least possible negative
impact on the natural environment through intentional physical design and resident behavior
choices. They are consciously planned through locally owned, participatory processes to
regenerate and restore its social and natural environments. An eco-village mostly ranges from
a population of 50 to 250 individuals, although some are smaller, and traditional eco villages
are often much larger. Larger ecovillages often exist as networks of smaller sub-communities.

2. ECOVILLAGES OR ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES

The origin of these communities is unknown, but they received international recognition in
1995 during a global meeting of ecovillages held in Scotland. This symposium led to the
creation of the Global Ecovillage Network (GEN), which laid the foundations of the current
movement and now a bridge that connects thousands of projects on five continents.
In 1991, American philosopher Robert Gilman, one of the main theorists of these ecological
communities, defined them as human-scale, full-featured settlements in which human
activities are harmlessly integrated into the natural world in a way that is supportive of
healthy human development and can be successfully continued into the indefinite future.
The development of ecovillages is based on one basic principle: concern for people and the
environment. They encourage a way of life characterised by solidarity and ecology,
where members of a community help each other to create more ethical, fairer and more
egalitarian societies.
Ecovillages usually have between 50 and 250 inhabitants, although some have more than
1,000. The entire population has shared objectives and they work together to achieve them.
How? They organise regular meetings where they share experiences and drive sustainable
economic, societal, cultural, and environmental practices.
3. Benefits of Eco-Village
➢ They use natural resources - Respect for nature includes using renewable energy sources,
such as solar and wind power. They also build with ecological materials like mud, wood,
and straw.
➢ They regenerate the environment - Ecological communities do not damage the
environment, and they regenerate the ecosystems where they live (recycling, reforestation,
restoration of habitats, etc.).
➢ They educate the community - Ecovillages promote positive values like ecology,
solidarity, equality, tolerance, generosity, diversity, hospitality, respect, collaboration
among people and self-sufficiency.
➢ Successful coexistence - Commitment to these ideals encourages dialogue and participation
in communities that resolve disputes through discussion and whose members are more likely
to take part in decision making.
➢ Responsible economy - They choose regenerative technologies and activities, such as
bioclimatic architecture and organic agriculture, and do not use machinery or chemical
pesticides that harm the land. They therefore consume less energy and are favour the fight
against global warming.

Figure 3: Eco-Village Milestones
4. Creation of Eco-Village Development

The Ecovillage Development Programme is adapted to local contexts, but will typically
involve:
4.1. Inviting and Participating
A baseline study for a particular region or country is conducted, identifying existing legal and
regulatory frameworks, outlining measures governments could take for an ‘enabling’
environment’ and mapping existing ecovillage projects and supportive organisations. During a
GEN Consultancy visit, inspirational ecovillage solutions from around the world are shared,
showing how ecovillage is a process, not an outcome. Communities decide whether they wish
to participate in the Ecovillage programme.
4.2. Planning and Integrating
A Process of Regenerative Ecovillage Design is facilitated in each of the Pilot Villages,
allowing local stakeholders to identify assets, needs and leverage points for their community.
In a participatory process, the community formulates Phase 1 of their Ecovillage Development
Plan, building on and adding to a recognised palette of best practice solutions in all four

dimensions of sustainability: ecology, economy, the social and culture, integrated into a whole
systems design.
4.3. Training and Implementing
Demand-driven trainings might be required during the implementation of Phase 1 of the
Ecovillage Development Plan. While some of the technologies used may be complex, there is
a focus on low tech solutions that can be installed, repaired and maintained by local teams, thus
providing local ownership, employment and long-term sustainability. GEN works in close
partnerships with relevant local NGO and CSO networks so that skills and resources can be
shared in a synergetic and systemic way.
4.4. Evaluating and Celebrating
The end of year 1 is marked by monitoring and evaluating the outcomes and impact of
Ecovillage Development in each of the pilot communities. An Ecovillage Open Day or
Conference is organised where wins, inspiration and change stories are celebrated, and
feedback is gathered. Typically, a next round of communities will be inspired by the positive
changes and gain interest to become involved, as evidenced in countries like Senegal, Tanzania,
and the Gambia.
4.5. Refining and Scaling
The first circle of Ecovillages refines and expand their Ecovillage Development Plan – Phase
2. As skills, capacities and income within the communities grow, more opportunities become
available. Now that these Ecovillages are up and running and regenerative Ecovillage
development is well underway, the next round of communities who wish to be part of the
program are identified and the process starts again.
5. Examples of Eco-Village
Here Are Some of The Best International Ecovillages:
5.1. Ecovillage in Ithaca, NY, USA
Eco Village at Ithaca is a community of people seeking to create positive solutions to the social,
environmental, and economic crises our planet faces. Envisioned in 1991 and brought to life in
1996, this suburban cohousing community today promotes experiential learning about ways of
meeting human needs for shelter, food, energy, livelihood and social connectedness that are
aligned with the long-term health and viability of Earth and all its inhabitants. Covering 175
acres, it is in the Finger Lakes region in upstate New York and provides the setting for a healthy,
socially rich lifestyle focused on minimizing the ecological impact of humans. It is an intentional
community and non-profit educational organization that invites you to live, learn and grow. This
vast sanctuary boasts two community-supported agriculture (CSA) farms and 160 residents, 60
of whom are children.

Figure 4: Eco-Village in Ithaca, NY, USA
5.2. Eco Truly Park, Peru

Eco Truly Park is a magical self-sustaining artistic community located right next to the sea on
the Chacra y Mar beach, a district of Aucallama, in the province of Huaral, one hour by bus or
car (63 km) north of the capital city, Lima. This beautiful Peruvian Pacific coast ecological, the
artistic community has a group of cute mud houses that offer a return to natural, healthy living
inspired by Vaisnava principles. In the last 18 years, the members of this community have
developed unique organic awareness cultivation and ecological program. The community is
built 2.5 m above sea level and consisted previously of completely sandy, unworkable land.
Today their community is visited by residents and volunteers from around the world who would
like to travel to this retreat to experience living together in harmony with their surroundings.
Figure 5: Eco truly Park, Peru

As climate change accelerates, we need communities like these are trying to create viable
models of sustainable, human-scale communities.
Reference:
1. Class lectures
2. https://www.iberdrola.com/
3. https://medium.com/
4. https://ecovillage.org/

Q.3 How effectively land use planning offers the opportunities to reduce the
environmental impacts and address the social inequalities of environmental pollution?
1. Land Use Planning

Land-use planning is the process of regulating the use of land by a central authority. Usually,
this is done in an effort to promote more desirable social and environmental outcomes as well
as a more efficient use of resources. More specifically, the goals of modern land-use planning
often include environmental conservation, restraint of urban sprawl, minimization
of transport costs, prevention of land use conflicts, and a reduction in exposure to pollutants.
In the pursuit of these goals, planners assume that regulating the use of land will change the
patterns of human behaviour, and that these changes are beneficial. The first assumption, that
regulating land-use changes the patterns of human behaviour is widely accepted. However, the
second assumption - that these changes are beneficial - is contested and depends on the location
and regulations being discussed.
Figure 1: Land Use Plan
In urban planning, land use planning seeks to order and regulate land use in an efficient and
ethical way, thus preventing land use conflicts. Governments use land use planning to manage
the development of land within their jurisdictions. In doing so, the governmental unit can plan
for the needs of the community while safeguarding natural resources. To this end, it is the
systematic assessment of land and water potential, alternatives for land use, and economic and
social conditions in order to select and adopt the best land use options. Often one element of
a comprehensive plan, a land use plan provides a vision for the future possibilities of
development in neighbourhoods, districts, cities, or any defined planning area.

Figure 2: Land-Use Planning Process
2. Land-Use Planning Advantages

The land becomes a scarce resource as populations increase. Land-use planning is important to
mitigate the negative effects of land use and development. Many positives come with the
process of land use planning. Benefits of land use planning include:
• Provides a beneficial framework for the development of a project before development

officially begins
• Helps to anticipate the future of a particular area, which allows developers to implement
an infrastructure that acts as risk mitigation
• Effective land-use planning positively impacts the urban economy
• Can assist in putting measures in place to combat climate change
• Promotes better use and conservation of natural resources, along with protecting the
environment
• Prevents development in areas that have a high risk of natural hazards
• Protects lands from negative impacts of transportation while reducing exposure to
pollution and costs
• Minimizes the public health and safety risks for the local community
• Prevents land use conflicts

3. Types of Land-Use
Land is required to support human and ecosystem needs. With growing populations in urban
and suburban areas, land use planning is important to optimize the combination of different
types of development projects. These can include residential, commercial, transportation,
recreational, retail, and public uses.
• Urban areas promote economic growth and satisfy the housing, industrial, and
commercial needs of growing human populations.
• Agricultural land is critical to provide food and fiber to growing populations.
Agricultural activities include row crops, rangelands, animal farms, and other
agribusiness activities.
• Transportation infrastructure like roads and airports is another type of land use that
affects water resources through road runoff and alterations to the circulation of water.
4. Land-Use Changes
Major land–use changes have occurred in the United States during the past 25 years. The total
area of cropland, pastureland and rangeland decreased by 76 million acres in the lower 48 states
from 1982 to 2003, while the total area of developed land increased by 36 million acres or 48%.
What are the potential economic, social and environmental impacts of land use changes? How
does land use change affect agriculture and rural communities? What are the important
economic and environmental implications for commodity production and trade, water and soil
conservation, open space preservation, and other policy issues? This article addresses some of
these issues and their policy implications.
4.1. Environmental Impacts
Land–use change is arguably the most pervasive socioeconomic force driving changes and
degradation of ecosystems. Deforestation, urban development, agriculture, and other
human activities have substantially altered the Earth’s landscape. Such disturbance of the
land affects important ecosystem processes and services, which can have wide–ranging and
long–term consequences
Figure 3: Sustainable Land Management

Farmland provides open space and valuable habitat for many wildlife species. However,
intensive agriculture has potentially severe ecosystem consequences. For example, it has
long been recognized that agricultural land use and practices can cause water pollution and
the effect is influenced by government policies. Runoff from agricultural lands is a leading
source of water pollution both in inland and coastal waters. Conversions of wetlands to
crop production and irrigation water diversions have brought many wildlife species to the
verge of extinction.
Forests provide many ecosystem services. They support biodiversity, providing critical
habitat for wildlife, remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, intercept precipitation,
slow down surface runoff, and reduce soil erosion and flooding. These important ecosystem
services will be reduced or destroyed when forests are converted to agriculture or urban
development. For example, deforestation, along with urban sprawl, agriculture, and other
human activities, has substantially altered and fragmented the Earth’s vegetative cover.
Such disturbance can change the global atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide, the
principal heat–trapping gas, as well as affect local, regional, and global climate by changing
the energy balance on Earth's surface (Marland et al. 2003).
Urban development has been linked to many environmental problems, including air
pollution, water pollution, and loss of wildlife habitat. Urban runoff often contains
nutrients, sediment and toxic contaminants, and can cause not only water pollution but also
large variation in stream flow and temperatures. Habitat destruction, fragmentation, and
alteration associated with urban development have been identified as the leading causes of
biodiversity decline and species extinctions (Czech, Krausman and Devers 2000; Soulé
1991). Urban development and intensive agriculture in coastal areas and further inland are
a major threat to the health, productivity, and biodiversity of the marine environment
throughout the world
Reference:
1. Class lectures
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/
3. https://prs3.com/
4. https://www.choicesmagazine.org/

Q.4 What are the basic principles for ecosystem approach applied for sustainable
neighborhood? How accessibility to work is directly related to the provision of local
services?
1. Ecosystem Approach
The ecosystem approach is a conceptual framework for resolving ecosystem issues. The idea
is to protect and manage the environment through the use of scientific reasoning. Another point
of the ecosystem approach is preserving the Earth and its inhabitants from potential harm or
permanent damage to the planet itself. With the preservation and management of the planet
through an ecosystem approach, the future monetary and planetary gain are the by-product of
sustaining and/or increasing the capacity of that environment.
This is possible as the ecosystem approach incorporates humans, the economy, and ecology to
the solution of any given problem. The initial idea for an ecosystem approach would come to
light during the second meeting (November 1995) at the Conference of the Parties (COP) it
was the central topic in implementation and framework for the Convention on Biological
Diversity (CBD), it would further elaborate on the ecosystem approach as using varies
methodologies for solving complex issues.
The use of the ecosystem approach has been incorporated with managing water, land, and
living organisms’ ecosystems and advocating the nourishment and sustainment of those
ecological space. Since the ecosystem approach is a conceptual model for solving problems,
the key idea could combat various problems.
Figure 1: Ecosystem Approach

2. Introduction to Achieve Sustainable Neighborhoods

During the past century due to the rate of population growth in urban areas, and need of social,
economic, physical development by considering the needs of coming generation, the concept
of sustainable development emerged. Basically, sustainable development is to provide new
principles and lifestyle of living all over the world, therefore; sustainability cannot be an end
product, unlike sustainability can be a vision and process (Newman & Kenworthy 1999, p. 5)
which means and demands of it, is to create substantial change for all the humans. The concept
of sustainable development has been used in different forms and definition.
Based on statements mentioned above, the focus and main aim of this study is concentrated on
clarify the fundamental factors and principles which have directly effect on sustainability of
urban neighborhoods and goals and objectives of sustainable neighborhoods.
Sustainable Neighbourhood Urban neighbourhood can be seen and understood in different

ways because the identity of a neighbourhood usually has more dimensions than just
sociological context, topography, land use and administrative categories. Neighbourhoods are
the location for connections of social, economic, physical, and environmental factors.
Normally, the term neighbourhood is defined from different social, psychological, mental,
perceiving, architectural (physical) and political points of view. In other words, each of the
different parts presents its own definition of neighbourhood. Thus, there are different
approaches to applying sustainable development to neighbourhoods. Hence, within the context
of neighbourhood planning and development a general understanding of the meaning of
sustainable development is to balance social, economic, and environmental requirements
linked with urban development measures (Blum and Grant, 2006; Al-Hagla, 2008).
2.1. Main principles of Sustainable Neighborhood: UN-Habitat as an organization that
has support for better urban future, recommended 5 principles include “Adequate space for
streets and an efficient street network, High density, Mixed land-use, Social mix and
Limited land-use specialization” as main principles of planning for a sustainable neighborhood
which they will be explained in the following (UN-HABITAT, 2011; Teed, et al., 2013; Falk
and Carley, 2012).
➢ Adequate space for streets and an efficient street network Target of this principle is to
develop a suitable and efficient level of street network which can works for vehicle, public
transportation and especially for pedestrian and cycling. Besides, the street network play
important role to formation and shaping the neighborhood structure which can defined pattern
of development blocks, buildings, open public spaces, and landscape. Thus, this principle
provides the basis for sustainable neighborhood development. Furthermore, to develop
sustainable neighborhood by focusing on mobility dimension, the following characteristics
should be considered in street design:
➢ Street must be walkable and cyclist friendly.
➢ Public transportation must be encouraged.
➢ Street hierarchy must be extremely interconnected.
➢ Parking area must be adequate.
➢ High Density: Due to issues which emerged by rapid urbanization, global population
explosion and urban sprawl, achieving high density is essential which is foundation of
sustainable neighborhood. High density means a concentration of people and their activities.
High density development has many economic, social and environmental benefits as well

as high density is a smart choice and is located in the central of sustainable urban planning.
In the following several of main benefits of high density development are mentioned:
o Efficient use of lands and accommodate more people per area.
o Reducing the cost of public services such as emergency response, school transport,
water, sewage and roads.
o Support to have better community services.
o Decaling the dependency to car and parking demand, support public transport,
pedestrian and cycling modes.
o Enhancing the social equity.
o Improving and supporting the quality of public open spaces.
o Increasing energy efficiency and decreasing pollution.
➢ Mixed Land – Use Purpose of this principle is concentered on developing a range of well-
matched activities and land uses next to each other within suitable places and flexible
enough. Besides, mixed land use has attempt to create “local jobs, enhance local economy,
decrease car dependency, encourage pedestrian and cyclist traffic, reduce landscape
fragmentation, provide closer public services and support mixed communities”. During
century modern urban planning introduced the concept of land-use zoning approaches which
single function areas emerged throughout the cities around world. This concept creates
serious problems for cities such as traffic congestion and car dependency. Hence, to solve
these issues, mixed land-use concept promoted by new urbanism. Mixed land-use concept
provide condition to combine of housing, commercial, industrial, offices and other
functions. Thus, when verity of function is mixed in one neighborhood, housing and
economic activities should be designed well balanced and well-matched (UN-HABITAT,
2011; Teed, et al., 2013; Falk and Carley, 2012).
Social Mix – This principle has aims to promote the cohesion and interaction among different
social groups within same neighborhood and provide equal accesses to existing urban
opportunities by planning different kinds of residential houses. This principle provides the
foundation for healthy social networks. Mixed land-use and social mix are mutually dependent
and support each other. Besides, social mix can be achieved by mixed land-use and suitable
polices. Furthermore, in a mixed land-use neighborhood, opportunity of job is generated for
diverse level of residents with different income. Thus, people with different level of income
live and work in a neighborhood and shape a social network. Finally, social mix can be defined
as a socio-spatial concept with the following purposes:
➢ Promoting more social interaction and increasing social cohesion through different
social classes.
➢ Generating job opportunity
➢ Attract more services to the neighborhood.
3. Access to everyday services
People with disabilities are protected under the law about the use and access of services without
being subjected to disability discrimination. There is a duty on service providers to make
reasonable adjustments to improve accessibility of services for people with disabilities.
➢ Everyday services
People with disabilities have important rights of access to everyday services. This includes
services provided by:
• local councils
• doctors' surgeries
• shops
• hotels

• banks
• pubs
• post offices
• theatres
• hairdressers
• places of worship
• courts
• voluntary groups, such as play groups
Non-educational services provided by schools are also included.
Access to services is not just about installing ramps and widening doorways for wheelchair
users - it is about making services easier to use for all people with disabilities, including people
who are blind, deaf or have a learning disability.
AccessAble is an online directory with detailed access information about venues across the
UK.
• AccessAble (external link opens in a new window / tab)
o Transport services
People with disabilities have legal protection against disability discrimination when using the
following forms of transport:
• trains
• buses and coaches
• taxis
• vehicle rental
• vehicle breakdown services
You can find out more about how the DDA applies to transport services at the Equality
Commission’s website.
• Disability discrimination and transport services(external link opens in a new window /
tab)
o Discrimination and reasonable adjustments
The legal definition of disability discrimination states that it can occur in two ways:
It is unlawful for a service provider, without lawful justification, to treat a person with a
disability less favourably than other people for a reason related to the disability. Less
favourable treatment might occur if a person with disabilities is refused a service that others
are receiving, or is provided with a service of a poorer quality than others are receiving.
It is unlawful for a service provider to fail, without lawful justification, to meet the duty to
make reasonable adjustments. This duty requires service providers to make reasonable
adjustments to their policies and practices and to the physical features of their premises and to
provide auxiliary aids to improve the accessibility of services for people with disabilities.
Examples of reasonable adjustments include:
• installing an induction loop for people who are hearing impaired
• giving the option to book tickets by email as well as by phone
• providing disability awareness training for staff who have contact with the public
• providing larger, well-defined signage for people with impaired vision
• putting in a ramp at the entrance to a building as well as steps
What is considered a 'reasonable adjustment' for a large organisation like a bank may be
different to a reasonable adjustment for a small local shop. It's about what is practical in the
service provider's individual situation and what resources the business may have. They will not
be required to make changes which are impractical or beyond their means.
Failure or refusal to provide a service to a person with disabilities - which is offered to other
people - is discrimination unless it can be justified.
Local services you use most often

It's a good idea to talk to the service providers you use most often, for example your local
doctor's surgery or coffee shop, and explain exactly what your needs are. This will help them
understand what adjustments they might need to make to the way they provide their services.
o If you feel you've been discriminated against
If you find it difficult to access a local service - for example, you cannot call a telephone
helpline because you're deaf - you should contact the organisation and let them know. It is in
their interest to make sure everyone can use their service.
It's best to offer constructive suggestions as to how the service provider could improve the way
its services are provided. Explain the difficulty you have in accessing their service and give
examples of how other businesses have solved the problem, if you know of any.
If the service provider agrees to make an adjustment, ask if they can put it in writing. This will
help you follow up your request if the service provider does not keep their promise.
Reference:
1. Class lectures
2. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327118337_Introduction_to_Achieve_Sustainab
le_Neighborhoods
3. https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/access-to-everyday-services

Q.5 Explain the characteristics of neighborhood design that are associated with the
spatial form of neighborhood.
1. Neighborhood Design
There are many ways in which a neighbourhood can be defined, and questions have been raised
regarding whether the neighbourhood concept is still viable in our highly mobile society. For
the purposes of urban planning, a neighbourhood unit is considered to be a geographic area of
the community that is predominantly residential in nature, and which is bounded by
thoroughfares or collector streets, or by other natural or manmade features, such as railroads,
industrial areas or topographic features.
The area encompassed by a neighbourhood may vary between approximately 300 to about 900
acres, with 600 acres considered average. A neighbourhood unit should contain some park and
playground features and should be served by schools.
Figure 1: Traditional Neighborhood Development
Elementary schools often serve areas larger than a single neighbourhood and can be designed
to accommodate 700 students or more. Elementary school sites are usually located on about 10
acres. Some convenient shopping areas and various other facilities, such as churches, are also
appropriate as part of a typical neighbourhood unit. Changes in school service concepts do not
recognize the neighbourhood as an urban unit. Despite such concepts, the neighbourhood unit
still provides the most logical basis for detailed planning and for studying the housing needs of
the community.
In summary, neighbourhood viability may be quantified in terms of the following
characteristics:
➢ Physical condition of housing units.
➢ Opportunities for social interaction.
➢ Careful and strategic placement of retail uses and other appropriate non-residential uses
within the neighbourhood area.
➢ Continued investment in public and private property to stabilize property values.
➢ High level of owner-occupancy of dwelling units.
➢ Condition of public facilities and infrastructure serving the area.
➢ A sense of community and belonging among residents.

➢ Access to public open space areas. There are valid reasons for dividing an urban area
into smaller geographic units for evaluation, for functional planning, and for
organizational purposes. The delineation of neighbourhood areas provides a basis for
the planning of logical units in a city in an orderly, step-by-step process as the city
grows and matures over time.
Figure 2: Sustainable Neighborhood Design
2. NEIGHBORHOOD DESIGN FOR NEW AREAS

Although existing areas in the City may not adjust to the generalized neighbourhood layout
concepts discussed within this element of the Comprehensive Plan, new areas within Lancaster
will benefit from these types of neighbourhood designs. There are generally three different types
of neighbourhood designs being utilized by developers and planners in the United States today.
These are:
➢ Typical Subdivision Design
➢ Traditional Neighbourhood Design (TND)
➢ Cluster Design.
3. NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT POLICIES
The following are the recommended neighbourhood development policies for the City of
Lancaster:
➢ The Comprehensive Plan's Future Land Use Plan (Plate 7-1) must designate sufficient land
for each type of neighbourhood design in order to achieve a well-balanced mix of
neighbourhood identities and to ensure sufficient market flexibility.
➢ The City must identify existing neighbourhoods that do not enhance the City’s rural
character and must develop a framework for a volunteer neighbourhood enhancement and
maintenance program for the identified areas.
➢ The City must recognize the unique characteristics of residential areas designated on the
Future Land Use Plan (Plate 7-1) and must encourage provision of neighbourhoods designed
to maintain these characteristics. The specific needs of various segments of the population
in the City must also be considered.
➢ The City must encourage provisions in neighbourhood design for physically challenged
residents and for residents with other special needs.

➢ The City must plan locations that are appropriate for conventional subdivision
neighbourhoods, traditional neighbourhood design (TND), and cluster design for current
and future residents. City of Lancaster, Texas 9-9 2002 Comprehensive Plan City of
Lancaster, Texas 9-10.
➢ The City's Zoning Ordinance must be revised to include appropriate regulations to
implement mandated clustering of lots in neighbourhoods and the open space provisions
suggested herein.
➢ The City's development regulations must provide mechanisms to permit flexibility and
innovation in neighbourhood designs in order to promote land use efficiency and
environmental protection (e.g. clustering in areas around the floodplain).
➢ The City must ensure that development (and redevelopment) within existing
neighbourhoods is similar in density to and compatible with the character of the existing
neighbourhood in terms of general housing types and densities.
➢ The City must promote and encourage the use of design techniques and the provision of
planned open spaces to minimize the impact between different neighbourhood areas in the
City
Reference:
1. Class Lectures
2. City of Lancaster Comprehensive Plan by Dunkin, Sefko & Associates, Inc

Q.6 How development of community is essential to support and provide opportunities

for its citizen? Being policy maker how will you suggest the community based
environmental actions?
1. Introduction
The country of Pakistan is but one of the many world nations that has been confronted with
growing environmental concerns. The diverse range of issues that affects Pakistan has meant
that this nation must adapt its legislative, institutional and judicial frameworks to accommodate
the increasingly problematic, and sometimes dire, environmental scenario.
The South Asia region is comprised of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives,
Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Given that these countries share similar economic, social and
cultural contexts, the environmental maladies that confront each are also of a similar nature.
One can identify the systemic issues confronting each of these areas within the South Asian
region. High population growth has consequentially increased urbanisation, as those seeking
to alleviate their poverty migrate to urban areas for employment and other opportunities.
Furthermore, South Asia is also home to a significant but decreasing array of terrestrial and
marine biodiversity, which demonstrates the growing number of environmental challenges that
must be addressed in this region.
2. Environmental Issues Affecting Pakistan
Despite this general situation of environmental concern that confronts the South Asian region,
Pakistan suffers from environmental problems that have more prevalence in this country than
in others. It is necessary to explore these issues to gauge the effectiveness of any legislative,
institutional and judicial responses and if more is warranted to address the issue of concern.
Of importance in Pakistan is the extraordinary growth of gaseous emissions in the nation.
Although his problem is largely confined to urban centres and industrial areas due to large
amounts of vehicular, domestic and industrial emissions, air quality has been severely degraded
and atmospheric pollution in the nation is so high that Pakistan has one of the worlds worst
levels of pollution. Of even greater concern is that the trend of atmospheric degradation is
increasing, and air quality standards are deteriorating rapidly. To curb this problem the
Government of Pakistan and its subsidiary agencies and institutions have collaborated to
control the discharge and emission of pollution.
Another issue of great concern is the absence of any satisfactory waste disposal and
management facilities in Pakistan, which is compounded in those areas with a higher density
of human population. The systemic issues of poverty and urbanisation has only served to
exacerbate the problems in the country, especially as the current institutional systems are not
equipped to cope with the complex challenges of the urban sprawl. In Pakistan the present
system of waste management is far from uniform and varies from purely manual street
sweeping and scavenger systems to more mechanised and efficient apparatuses. The lack of
funding and great disorganisation between local, municipal, regional, provincial and federal
levels of government has meant that practically half of the amount of solid waste disposed of
is not removed.
It is now feared that Pakistan has the world’s second highest rate of deforestation. This has led
to the elimination of trees, flora, and fauna and has serious implications for the survival of
many animal habitats and the conservation of Pakistan’s otherwise rich biodiversity. As almost
70% of the population resides in rural areas a great many people directly and indirectly depend
on natural resources for survival. Destruction of biodiversity means basic resources such as
water, air and viable agriculture will be degraded and the consequences of this can be

devastating. Furthermore, on an economic level the conservation of biodiversity is central to

endeavours such as eco-tourism, where natural wildlife, habitats, eco-systems and resources
are crucial to a successful tourism industry.
important agricultural areas of the country have also been made to guide in the planning of
intensive agricultural development. About 320,000 hectares of land have been covered in
different parts of Pakistan, and mainly in the Peshawar, Multan, Hyderabad and Nawabshah
Districts. This information, in the form of over 300 reports along with relevant maps at the
village/watercourse-command level, has been distributed among various agricultural
organizations and enlightened farmers to help in the adoption of appropriate measures to
improve and conserve agricultural land, and increase agricultural production. Almost all-
important agricultural research farms/stations of the country have also been surveyed in detail
to facilitate the application of agricultural research to the type of soil cultivated by the farmer.
An area of about 5,000 hectares has been covered through these surveys.
3. Judicial, Constitutional & Institutional Responses to Environmental
Concerns
Considering the fundamental need for conservation of biodiversity in Pakistan, there has been
a move to implement provisions and strategies to facilitate the protection of this basic resource.
The fact that Pakistan is a Party to the Convention on Biological Diversity demonstrates its
commitment to achieving sustainable development and protection of natural resources in the
region. To implement the aims of the Convention measures of protection, such as the creation
of protected areas, sanctuaries and the imposition of penalties for breach of the legislative
provisions, have provided a basic framework for conservation of biodiversity. Furthermore,
Pakistan’s commitment to biodiversity is manifest in the network of international protocols,
conventions and treaties 3 Executive Summary Environmental Law and Institutions in Pakistan
that it has signed and ratified into domestic legislation. There are two pieces of legislation
enacted by the Pakistani government that are intended to provide an overriding legislative
framework for environmental issues: the Pakistan Environmental Protection Ordinance 1983
and the Pakistan Environmental Protection Act 1997. These Acts are complimented by the
implementation of various other Rules and Ordinances that provide a framework for dealing
with the many complex environmental issues that confront Pakistan as a nation.
To administer these laws, the Government of Pakistan has established an institutional
framework. For example, Pakistan Environmental Protection Agencies (PEPAs) have been
established in all four of the nation’s provinces to promote the overriding objectives of
conservation, sustainable development and improve the decision-making process. This role is
particularly important in the context of increased development and industrial activity, as there
is a need for firm consideration of the appropriateness of any proposed activity.
At the federal level the Ministry of Environment is the main institution that deals with issues
relevant to the environment. It has divisions dedicated to the environment, urban development
and wildlife and is responsible for the coordination of its derivative institutions, such as the
Pakistan Environmental Protection Council (PEPC) and the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA). The PEPC formulates environmental legislation and the EPA is the agency charged
with planning and implementation duties.
In the realm of judicial administration and interpretation of environmental legislation there
have also been some vital developments. There are emerging procedures for the avoidance or
prevention of environmental disputes, which contrast with traditional and historically
inadequate processes for dealing with issues of environment. Environmental Tribunals have
been instrumental in this process, as they provide better access to redress and have the capacity

to enforce the law and impose appropriate penalties on those who violate the legislative
provisions. The superior judiciary, in particular the Supreme Court of Pakistan, has played a
positive and constructive role in the development and enforcement of environmental laws and
initiatives. Essentially, the right to enjoy a clean environment has been interpreted as inherent
within the Constitution, which fortifies not only the fundamental need to protect the
environment but expands the right of persons to seek legal redress for environmental wrongs.
4. Conclusions
In this respect Pakistan has become more aware of the imperative nature of the environment
for the people, the economy and the world. It has entrenched its commitments to this issue
through legislation, institutions and its judiciary. Its role as a signatory to important
environmental conventions is further testimony to that fact that issues of the environment are
of growing concern in Pakistan. While these initial steps are welcome, more is needed to
effectively implement the objectives contained within these conventions and domestic laws.
5. Environmental Legislation in Pakistan
Governmental responses to the problems of environmental pollution took the form of
legislative enactment to deal with the causes of environmental impacts, particularly industrial
effluents and nuisance. Thus, in addition to new sectoral legislation to fill the more apparent
gaps in national frameworks, comprehensive anti-pollution laws were enacted. Important
examples are the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act 1974; the Water (Prevention
& Control of Pollution) Act, 1981; the 1977 Pollution Control Ordinance of Bangladesh; and
the 1980 Central Environmental Authority Act of Sri Lanka. Despite the apparent diversity of
emphasis enunciated in these legislative creations, the primary focus remained on pollution
control.
In this latter respect, the legislation often covers such cross-sectoral issues as environmental
impact assessment, environmental quality criteria and public participation in decision-making
and implementation. Sri Lanka's Central Environment Authority Act of 1980, and The
Environmental Protection Act, 1986 of India are demonstrative of the broad range of areas that
such framework legislation attempts to cover. Most recently, Bangladesh's Environment
Conservation Act, 1995 has come into force within the same time frame as Pakistan's
Environmental Protection Act, 1997 and the Environmental Protection Act, 1997 of Nepal.
Environmental quality and anti-pollution regulations remain the most widely utilised
legislative technique for pollution control, though several new approaches are evident in
contemporary State practice. These laws have a wide-ranging scope, as they typically canvass
issues related to air quality, water, marine pollution, solid waste disposal and toxic materials
management. Furthermore, this legislation establishes quality criteria, defines pollutants, sets
permissible limits and regulates the suitability and effectiveness of compliance and
enforcement methods. One of the most widely utilised techniques for environmental control is
the system of authorisation (by permit, certification, licence) administered by government
institutions.
The effective implementation of environmental legislation presupposes the existence of
appropriate institutional arrangements and processes. The sectoral approach to environmental
management has had the effect of diffusing power and responsibility in diverse government
departments (and in certain cases in local authorities) without any mechanisms for
coordination. Jurisdictional overlaps and conflicts have inevitably arisen, thereby inhibiting
not only the effective implementation of sustainable development policies, but also law
enforcement. The major practical problems result from the difficulties in establishing an
effective system of control and mechanisms to enforce the law.
6. Environmental Impact Assessment

Economic development in developing countries has focused on immediate economic gains and,
as such, environmental protection has not been prioritised. This primarily occurs because the
economic losses from environmental degradation often manifest only long after the economic
benefits of development have been realised. The past failure of development planning
processes to take adequate account of the detrimental impacts of economic development
activities, led to the advent of environmental impact assessment (EIA) processes. EIA was first
employed by industrialised countries in the early 1970s. Since that time, most countries have
adopted EIA processes to examine the social and environmental consequences of projects prior
to their execution. The purpose of these processes is to provide information to decision makers
and the public about the environmental implications of proposed actions before decisions are
made.
The need to integrate environmental considerations into national socio-economic planning is
now widely recognised across the South Asia region. The EIA process has become the most
common institutional mechanism for achieving such integration. EIA has become a crucial tool
in guiding policy choices and has helped to create an environmental awareness amongst
agencies involved in project implementation. The system of EIA has the capacity to minimise
potential environmental damage or even prevent the occurrence of such problems at the
preliminary stage of project formulation.
For many countries in the region an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) or Environmental
Impact Statement (EIS) has been made mandatory through the national framework legislation
or the enactment of subsidiary legislation. Nepal has formulated EIA guidelines that involve
the review of the Planning Commission, Environment Ministry as well as the agency
implementing the project. India and Sri Lanka have both instituted a mandatory system of EIA
for specified development projects.
Reference:
1. http://www.sacep.org/pdf/Reports-Technical/2001-UNEP-SACEP-Law-Handbook-
Pakistan.pdf
2. Class Lectures

Q.7 What do you understand by the term “Biodiversity”? In Pakistan many NGO’s
are working for the conservation of Biodiversity, discuss the role of different NGO’s in
“Conservation of Biodiversity”.
1. Introduction
The variety of life on Earth, its biological diversity is commonly referred to as biodiversity.
The number of species of plants, animals, and microorganisms, the enormous diversity of genes
in these species, the different ecosystems on the planet, such as deserts, rainforests and coral
reefs are all part of a biologically diverse Earth.
Appropriate conservation and sustainable development strategies attempt to recognize this as
being integral to any approach to preserving biodiversity. Almost all cultures have their roots
in our biological diversity in some way or form.
2. Importance of Biodiversity
Biodiversity boosts ecosystem productivity where each species, no matter how small, all
have an important role to play.
For example,
• A larger number of plant species means a greater variety of crops
• Greater species diversity ensures natural sustainability for all life forms
• Healthy ecosystems can better withstand and recover from a variety of disasters.
And so, while we dominate this planet, we still need to preserve the diversity in wildlife.
A healthy biodiversity provides several natural services for everyone:
• Ecosystem services, such as
o Protection of water resources
o Soils formation and protection
o Nutrient storage and recycling
o Pollution breakdown and absorption
o Contribution to climate stability
o Maintenance of ecosystems
o Recovery from unpredictable events
• Biological resources, such as
o Food
o Medicinal resources and pharmaceutical drugs
o Wood products
o Ornamental plants
o Breeding stocks, population reservoirs
o Future resources
o Diversity in genes, species and ecosystems
• Social benefits, such as

o Research, education and monitoring

o Recreation and tourism
o Cultural values
That is quite a lot of services we get for free!
The cost of replacing these (if possible) would be extremely expensive. It therefore makes
economic and development sense to move towards sustainability.
A report from Nature magazine also explains that genetic diversity helps to prevent the chances
of extinction in the wild (and claims to have shown proof of this).
To prevent the well known and well documented problems of genetic defects caused by in-
breeding, species need a variety of genes to ensure successful survival. Without this, the
chances of extinction increases.
And as we start destroying, reducing and isolating habitats, the chances for interaction from
species with a large gene pool decreases.
3. NGOs in Pakistan
A lot of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are working in Pakistan for the conservation
of nature. They aim to conserve the ecosystem and the natural habitats by preserving their
diversity, ecology, encouraging renewable energy sources and reduction in pollution. Some are
mentioned below:
➢ WWF Pakistan
➢ The Snow Leopard Trust
➢ Himalayan Wildlife Foundation
➢ Pakistan Game Fish Association
➢ Pakistan Wildlife Foundation
➢ Centre for Bioresource Research (CBR)
➢ International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
➢ WSPA Pakistan
➢ World Conservation Society- Pakistan
Figure 6: World Conservation

4. Role of NGOs
Role of different NGOs in the field of conservation of Biodiversity is very important and is
detailed below as mentioned:
A. WWF Pakistan
Critical Contributions empower WWF country offices, including Pakistan, to maximize the
ecological impacts of their activities and align their priorities to those of the WWF Network in
order to contribute to the wider value across the globe. They aim to conserve Nature and
Ecological processes by:
➢ Preserving genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity.
➢ Ensuring that the use of renewable natural resources is sustainable both now and in the
longer term.
➢ Promoting action to reduce pollution and the wasteful exploitation and consumption of
resources and energy.
WWF-Pakistan carries out conservation work according to the Global Programme Framework.
The Framework includes biodiversity and human footprint meta-goals. Protecting Endangered
Species in Pakistan.
B. The Snow Leopard Trust
The Snow Leopard Trust aims to protect this endangered cat through community-based
conservation projects that are based on an improved scientific understanding of snow leopard
behaviour, needs, habitats and threats.
C. Centre for Bioresource Research (CBR)
CBR is a multidisciplinary based organization with urge for quality research and dissemination
of results to stakeholders that support conservation actions through meaningful collaborations
with potential partners (scientists and conservationists), Organization run by motivated
scientists with focus on research actions pertaining to conservation of biological resources. •
Conduct of teaching and Research • Demonstration of Ex situ conservation.
D. World Conservation Society - Pakistan
For over 18 years the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Pakistan Program has helped 65
communities build new governance institutions based on natural resource management and
sustainable development. The program has also built multiple-community conservancies and
linked them with the provincial government, in some cases providing the first platform for
community and community-government coordination. WCS has trained government staff and
over 100 community rangers to protect forests and wildlife. WCS-led governance efforts now
influence the lives of over 400,000 villagers across 10,000 km2. It has led to a 70% increase in
what was an endangered and rapidly decreasing markhor population and protected some of
Pakistan’s last great conifer forests.
Reference:
1. https://www.globalissues.org/article/170/why-is-biodiversity-important-who-cares
2. https://wildlife.com.pk/conservation/organizations/#:~:text=WWF%20Pakistan%2C%20T
he%20Snow%20Leopard,the%20World%20Conservation%20Society%2D%20Pakistan.
3. https://pakistan.wcs.org/About-Us
4. https://www.wwfpak.org/about_us_/strategy_/
5. https://www.snowleopard.org/about/

Q.8 Pollutants do not respect the region or national boundaries; enlist at least three
incidents around the world where the pollution produced in certain geological limits has
caused hazards to some other far off region?
1. Introduction
Pollutant is a substance that pollutes something, especially water or the atmosphere. It can enter
the environment naturally, such as from volcanic eruptions, or through human activities, such
as burning coal and gasoline. Here, we are giving the list of Major Pollutant, their sources and
their effects on Humans and Environment for general awareness.
Figure 7: Common Air Pollutants
Environmental pollution is the introduction of harmful materials caused by pollutants into the
environment. Pollutants are the various impurities that have found their way into the
environment due to both human activity and natural causes, thus leading to pollution. These
chemical compounds are harmful to both life and the environment. The Word Web Dictionary
defines pollutants as “waste matter that contaminates the water, air or soil.”
According to environmentalists and scientists, there are various types of pollutants and are
classified according to the type of pollution they cause – such as water, air, soil, noise
and radioactive pollution. Other types include thermal, plastic, agricultural, and light
pollution. In view of all these, this article seeks to list and explain the various types of pollutants
present in the environment.
2. Various Environmental Pollutants and Their Effect on Our Environment
A. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC)
These are gases that are very destructive to the protective ozone layer. CFCs are used in sprays,
perfumes and other canned products, including aerosols. Since they are lighter than air, they
rise to the atmosphere where the ultraviolet light frees the chlorine.
If the chlorine gets in contact with the earth’s protective ozone layer, it causes irreparable
damage which leads to the entry of cosmic rays that are carcinogenic to human beings and
the deterioration of marine and terrestrial plant growth.
B. Lead
This is a dangerous toxin found across the world, in fact, in all states. The element readily
dissolves in water and upon uptake leads to devastating health problems. It negates the work
of body’s enzymes, thereby slowing down the normal functioning of the body.
In addition to this, it is one of the causes of nervous breakdowns, for, in large quantities, it ends
up affecting the brain.
C. Methane
This is a major component of natural gas, the gaseous form of fossil fuel. It is harmless to the
environment. However, it is one of the greenhouse gases, and when it reacts with carbon
dioxide in the presence of water vapor, it absorbs and retains most of the radiation heat from
the sun. This traps excessive heat in the atmosphere contributing to global warming and climate
change.
Another thing that releases methane into the atmosphere is the rearing of cattle. Yes, when
cattle feed, it releases methane into the atmosphere. Now, with the increase in demand in the
meat industry, the rearing of cattle has also increased considerably in recent years. Thus, with
the expansion of the meat industry, the methane being added into the atmosphere also increases
substantially.
Now, when this greenhouse gas is released in the atmosphere, it makes the world a relatively
hotter place by trapping in the short rays of the sun. Thus, the release of methane also increases
the earth’s mean temperature and causes global warming.
3. Notable air pollution events in history
Air pollution is one of the biggest breathing hazards around to date and is responsible
for roughly 5.5 million premature deaths worldwide every year. Not to mention, a recent
major study has found a link between cardiac arrests and exposure to particulates. But is air
pollution a new issue? As it turns out, air pollution problems are not exclusive to the
21st century.
In fact, smoke-related air pollution dates back to Ancient Rome, and other large-scale air
pollution has been noted as early as 13th century London, which worsened in the 16th century
and onwards. As industrialization increased around the world, the more air pollution became a
focal point of discussion throughout history and into modern times.
Some of the most notable and severe air pollution incidents in history include:
➢ NEW YORK CITY SMOG
Like other major cities during the time period, New York City experienced a large amount
of air pollution in the 1950s and 1960s. New York City crises in 1953 and 1963 each claimed
hundreds of lives. Stagnant air again was the culprit for an extreme air pollution crisis, this
time over New York’s Thanksgiving weekend in 1966. Citizens were encouraged to stay
indoors as the smog - made up largely up carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide and smoke – hung
over the metro area, pushing the city into a first-stage alert. While claims vary, some estimates
report that up to 200 people were killed.
Ultimately, New York’s smog crises and the Donora Smog became major catalysts for the 1967
Air Quality Act, which later developed into the Clean Air Act (CAA) in 1970 as these issues
achieved greater national awareness.
Although many changes have taken place to improve air quality throughout history, it is still a
regular issue in many areas of the world. If you live in areas where smog and haze are common,
don’t forget the importance of staying protected to Breathe Safe.

➢ CHITRAL FACING ENVIRONMENTAL DISASTER

Plantation in the vast tracts of barren land in Chitral has become unavoidable to mitigate
climate change effects, save the oak and deodar forests from depletion, improve environment
and create employment opportunities.
According to data compiled in 2003 by Chitral Conservation Strategy, a project of IUCN, about
62 per cent of the 14,850 square kilometres area of Chitral supports development of pastures
which can be used for promotion of agroforestry. This sub-sector has always been neglected
despite the need for saving the oak and deodar forests and creating additional sources of income
for the farmers and thereby reducing poverty.
Due to its unique and mountainous topography, only 4 per cent of the total area is utilised for
agricultural purposes while acute scarcity of irrigation water is virtually the only hurdle to
bringing the large tracts of land under cultivation. The landscape of all the 30 valleys here is
such that the gravity flow of water from river is not possible.
About 3 per cent of total area of the district is covered with forest, which is shrinking fast due
to unchecked deforestation as the local population is totally dependent on timber as well as
firewood. The fast depletion of the deodar and oak forests is manifested in the form of flash
floods, land erosion, avalanches and glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF).
As per figures available with the department of environment, the annual consumption of
firewood in Chitral district is estimated at 3,000 cubic meters of which 67 per cent is extracted
from the forest. The forest area in Chitral is again under pressure to sustain the requirements
of timber at the local level which results from lack of access to alternative materials for
construction. Also, trees play a crucial role in reducing atmospheric concentration of
greenhouse gases and fighting the phenomenon of global warming.
Being a highly glaciated area, covering 19 per cent land of the district, the ecology of Chitral
is very delicate and highly susceptible to changes in atmospheric concentration of greenhouse
gases. For Chitral, massive plantation becomes obligatory to save it from destruction, which is
imminent due to environmental degradation.
Given the situation of environmental degradation and the impending disaster, the people of
Chitral are highly apprehensive about future and have demanded of the government to come
forward with a viable plan before it is too late. Plantation throughout the district in the range
lands is being cited by the residents as one of the effective steps.
➢ MEUSE RIVER VALLEY FOG
In December of 1930, a seemingly-normal fog made its way into the Meuse River valley in
Belgium. Soon after, the weather formation began to cause excessive coughing and choking,
mystifying doctors in the area. Over 3,000 inhabitants of nearby towns and villages fell ill,
resulting in the death of 65 people and thousands of livestock.
The cause was later determined to be a result of a combination of naturally forming fog and
the sulphur dioxide emissions produced by a large amount of coal-burning in the valley.
Reference:
1. https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/various-environmental-pollutants.php
2. https://rzmask.com/blogs/news-1/air-pollution-events-history
3. www.dawn.com.
4. Class Lectures

3675 - Assignment 1

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

3675 - Assignment 1

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

M.

Course: Sustainable Communities (3675) Semester: Autumn, 2020

1.1. Sustainable Development

Figure 1: Sustainable Development Goals

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 1

1.2. Key Factors Influencing Sustainable Development

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 2

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 3

Figure 2: Most ecovillages have between 50 and 250 inhabitants.

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 4

2. ECOVILLAGES OR ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 5

Figure 3: Eco-Village Milestones

4. Creation of Eco-Village Development

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 6

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 7

Figure 4: Eco-Village in Ithaca, NY, USA

5.2. Eco Truly Park, Peru

Figure 5: Eco truly Park, Peru

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 8

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 9

1. Land Use Planning

Figure 1: Land Use Plan

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 10

Figure 2: Land-Use Planning Process

2. Land-Use Planning Advantages

• Provides a beneficial framework for the development of a project before development

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 11

Figure 3: Sustainable Land Management

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 12

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 13

Figure 1: Ecosystem Approach

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 14

2. Introduction to Achieve Sustainable Neighborhoods

Sustainable Neighbourhood Urban neighbourhood can be seen and understood in different

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 15

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 16

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 17

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 18

Figure 1: Traditional Neighborhood Development

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 19

Figure 2: Sustainable Neighborhood Design

2. NEIGHBORHOOD DESIGN FOR NEW AREAS

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 20

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 21

Q.6 How development of community is essential to support and provide opportunities

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 22

devastating. Furthermore, on an economic level the conservation of biodiversity is central to

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 23

6. Environmental Impact Assessment

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 25

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 26

o Research, education and monitoring

Figure 6: World Conservation

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 27

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 28

Figure 7: Common Air Pollutants

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 30

➢ CHITRAL FACING ENVIRONMENTAL DISASTER

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & PRACTICE 31

You might also like