The re-emergence of the tram: transport for the sustainable transition
As technology develops, it is common that advancements often phase out older systems in favour of new innovations. However, in the realm of urban mobility, a notable exception is emerging. Once sidelined by the rise of car-centric infrastructure, one mode of public transport is making a striking comeback: the tram.
How some cities are safeguarding worker health and safety amid heat waves
Author | Raquel C. Pico Climate change is driving global warming. The IPCC reports have been warning about this for years, but the general public is now becoming increasingly aware of it in their everyday lives, especially during the summer months. Heatwaves have become more frequent and intense. This has a direct impact on public […]
What are passive houses and what are their energy benefits
Author | Jaime Ramos When studying the issue of the energy efficiency of buildings, one sometimes gets the feeling that it begins from the roof down. Apart from focusing on achieving clean energy production, it is useful to understand that we have the power to reduce consumption and alleviate energy losses. Passive houses have been doing this […]
Korea now supplies its most remote islands by drone
Author | Lucía Burbano South Korea is now employing drones to transport essential supplies to its most remote areas, showcasing the nation’s strong commitment to unmanned aerial vehicles. This initiative not only addresses logistical challenges but also aligns with South Korea’s strategic goal of becoming a global leader in drone technology and innovation. The drone […]
Rubber in playgrounds: an unexpected source of land pollution?
Author | Lucía Burbano Can materials like rubber, used in public infrastructures such as children’s parks, have harmful effects on health? In general terms, the numerous quality controls to which they are subjected would suggest otherwise. Many of these petroleum-based synthetics, however, contain harmful substances that can negatively impact the environment and potentially human health. […]
Designing for all: principles of universal access in public transportation
The concept of universal access refers to the design and operation of built environments, products, services and systems that can be used by all people, regardless of their abilities, age or other factors. The ultimate goal of universal access is to create inclusive spaces and experiences accessible to everyone, without necessitating additional adaptations or specialisations.
Tire dust: the great hidden pollutant in road traffic
Author | Raquel C. Pico Although we often view the environmental footprint of cars as a whole, their impact on the environment—and consequently on human health—is actually linked to various types of pollution. On the one hand, there are emissions from exhaust pipes. On the other hand, there are those not directly related to exhaust […]
La Rinconada, Peru: Living in the highest altitude city in the world
Author | Raquel C. Pico If you take a map of the world and look for the most populated areas with the highest concentration of cities, you will likely notice a pattern. Coastal regions and well-connected valleys tend to have the most towns and, generally, a higher population density. This makes sense, as these areas […]
Wood: A key material for the new generation of sustainable development
Author | Elvira Esparza Wood can replace other construction materials such as steel, concrete, and glass, and it is also a more sustainable option. Using wood in construction does not entail destroying forests; instead, it focuses on preserving existing forests and managing tree-rich regions with modern methods aimed at protecting biodiversity. The sustainable use of […]
How the city of Pontevedra became a pioneer in pedestrianizing its streets
Author | Lucía Burbano Nearly 25 years ago, Pontevedra sparked a revolution by removing cars and reclaiming its streets and squares for its residents. How? By placing people at the heart of its urban strategy, pedestrianizing the entire city center and significant portions of its inner ring road. Despite initial reservations in the Galician city, […]