In recent years, the 15-minute city has emerged as a transformative urban planning model, aiming to make daily necessities accessible within a 15-minute walk or bike ride. This approach seeks to reduce car dependency, lower carbon emissions, and enhance the quality of life for city dwellers. By integrating residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, the 15-minute city fosters vibrant communities where essential services like healthcare, education, shopping, and leisure are within easy reach. Cities such as Paris and Melbourne have been at the forefront of implementing this concept, demonstrating its potential to create more sustainable and livable urban environments. salishseaconsulting.com
The adoption of the 15-minute city model has led to significant improvements in urban sustainability. By promoting mixed-use zoning and enhancing walkability, these cities have experienced reductions in traffic congestion and air pollution. Additionally, the emphasis on local businesses and community engagement has strengthened social ties and economic resilience. The success of the 15-minute city underscores the importance of human-centered urban planning in addressing the challenges of rapid urbanization and climate change. salishseaconsulting.com