Cities in Motion #5
David de Rothschild
6 minute read
It all started with a simple but important question:
'How can the cities we live in become more sustainable?'
As part of the Cities in Motion series, we asked IONIQ Ambassador David de Rothschild to share his thoughts.
This is our final article in the Cities in Motion series after visiting
London, Frankfurt, Jakarta, and Los Angeles.
At first glance, the concept of sustainable cities may appear paradoxical. Indeed, when I hear the words 'metropolis' and 'eco,' I can understand why, for many, the two terms seem at odds with one another. However, when you go deeper, explore cities, and meet dedicated residents, a new image begins to form, one that shows optimism, creative energy, and the will to bring more sustainability and quality of life to all communities. For me, our global road trip through four cities revealed fascinating narratives of resilience, adaptation, inclusivity, and how cities possess the power to act as potent catalysts for sustainable development.
The allure of progress
Since the start of the Industrial Revolution, society has been driven by the promise and allure of modern comforts, often at the expense of our deep-rooted connection with the natural world. From suburban settlements that encroach on wildlife to rediverting rivers, we have altered and manipulated nature to suit our convenience. Constructing artificial landscapes to suit our preferences often means we gradually lose our link to the environment and all its wonders. The resulting consequences can be severe. We are now at a crossroads where the direction we have taken in the past must be abandoned in favor of new insights and aims. Fortunately, there are those who are tirelessly working for a more sustainable future and reconnecting with the natural elements that will make city life more livable for all. Their dedication is truly inspiring.
Cities as best-practice examples
All cities are different - yet each one is connected by its potential to be an example of overcoming environmental challenges for the benefit and well-being of all its residents. Reaching this goal requires governmental support and investment at some level, and of course, not all cities are at the same level of sustainable development. In this case, NGOs can play an important role. Communities and actions at a local level have also proved to be one of the most effective and motivating factors. Whether cleanup measures, recycling initiatives, or spreading environmental awareness, their activities and fostering more sustainable practices empower local communities and break the cycle of ever-accumulating waste.
When the issues we face are so important
- there is no planet B. Success is the only option.
DAVID DE ROTHSCHILD,
Hyundai IONIQ Ambassador
Sustainability pays off
Of course, new economic benefits are another motivating factor for striving to make our cities more sustainable. The urban sustainable transformation goes beyond creating more accessible green areas, reducing C02 emissions, or resource-saving measures. Each measure, program, and goal can create new jobs and income sources. In this sense, cities can offer tremendous economic possibilities and stand as formidable financial powerhouses, advancing careers, facilitating cost savings, and fostering a culture of innovation.
Investments in renewables, energy-efficient buildings, sustainable
transport, and clean mobility infrastructure can stimulate local
economies and create abundant employment opportunities for
individuals. For example, in London, green spaces have been recognized for their environmental benefits, such as flood resilience, improved air and water quality, and carbon sequestration, as well as their impact on well-being, providing spaces for exercise and reducing stress. Similarly, Frankfurt has embraced sustainable urban planning and eco-building
practices, focusing on climate adaptation, resilience, inclusivity,
affordability, and green spaces. The city has fostered the implementation of passive houses, energy-plus houses, expanded EV charging points, and improved transport systems, contributing to a more sustainable and livable environment.
Sustainable mobility means going from A to B inside a system
where every touchpoint is connected and used to foster a more
harmonious relationship with our environment.
DAVID DE ROTHSCHILD, Hyundai IONIQ Ambassador
Letting nature move in
In addition to physical green spaces, sustainable cities can incorporate nature-based solutions into their urban planning and design. These solutions mimic natural cycles to address environmental challenges and enhance urban resilience. Examples include green roofs and walls, which improve energy efficiency and reduce the urban heat island effect, as well as rain gardens and bioswales, which help manage stormwater runoff and prevent flooding. By integrating nature into our cities, we can create more sustainable and livable environments that benefit humans and the natural world.
Planting for urban progress
Green areas are always a welcome sight in cities, and their benefits are multi-faceted, like gardens, parks, and green oases that draw people and wildlife while helping keep temperatures down. Another sustainable aspect of green areas is the promotion of urban agriculture and community gardens. These spaces provide access to fresh, locally grown food and serve as educational and social hubs. Additionally, they mimic natural processes to address environmental challenges and enhance urban resilience.
Cities on an emission-reducing mission
Changing cities' roles from leading greenhouse gas contributors to C02-fighters will be crucial in addressing the widespread impacts of climate change and safeguarding natural resources. By embracing renewable energy, establishing sustainable transportation systems, and implementing effective waste management strategies, cities can significantly contribute to the global fight against greenhouse gases and their consequences. For example, Jakarta has been addressing plastic pollution and waste management through initiatives such as Waste 4 Change and the Hyundai Continue initiative, which focus on recycling, upcycling, behavior change, and finding alternatives to plastic. Similarly, cities like Los Angeles have committed to using zero-emission vehicles and clean energy solutions, including decentralization and localized energy grids. Organizations like GRID Alternatives LA strive to ensure communities have access to clean energy, providing low-cost or no-cost solar, training, and job opportunities in underserved areas.
We’re just a small part
of a beautiful system
that will continue long after we’re gone.
DAVID DE ROTHSCHILD,
Hyundai IONIQ Ambassador
People-centric cities
For a city to be truly sustainable, it must focus on inclusivity, health, and community empowerment in addition to its environmental efforts. By ensuring equal access to resources and opportunities for all residents, cities can promote social cohesion and work towards reducing inequalities. Accessible public transportation, affordable housing, and community engagement programs are vital for creating an inclusive and equitable society. Efforts like those in Los Angeles to encourage domestic solar usage and home chargers through initiatives such as Hyundai's Home aim to make clean energy accessible to all residents.
Local initiatives and communities are leading the sustainability
movement, demonstrating resilience, adaptation, and the power of
collaboration. It is also essential to learn from Indigenous knowledge and traditional practices and to work alongside Indigenous communities, who have long understood the interconnectedness between humans and nature. Their wisdom can offer valuable insights for sustainable urban development and enable a more holistic and inclusive approach to sustainability.
Shining a light on sustainable stories
I hope our Cities in Motion series can serve as a valuable source of inspiration and knowledge. For me, meeting so many dedicated individuals on the way and learning from their wisdom and experiences was truly unique. Moreover, each sustainability activity we encountered throughout our global journey has the ability to be implemented on a wider scale to reach more people and further advance a city's sustainable transformation. I am happy that Hyundai is dedicated to helping advance urban sustainability through vehicle innovation and partnerships with national and international organizations that are dedicated to raising environmental awareness and improving life. In doing so, they follow their philosophy of 'Progress for Humanity', where innovation benefits people and the planet.
Follow @hyundai on Instagram to learn more about how we are helping pioneer hydrogen-powered mobility.