Net Zero Corridors—Enabling Urban Regeneration and Net Zero Cities

Abstract

The net zero city can be a new priority if urban professionals show that it enables cost-effective urban regeneration through the new concept of net zero corridors. Net zero requires the integration of net zero technologies such as solar, batteries, and electric vehicles into transport and buildings. These technologies work well at the small, local scale, so if they can be developed into a corridor of net zero precincts, enabled by net zero transit systems, then urban regeneration can be achieved with reduced car dependence. The net zero corridor approach to urban regeneration enables a city’s historic economic and cultural roles, as well as pursuing the next economy’s climate agenda. Mid-tier transit, like trackless trams, are likely to be the best approach to enabling a corridor of net zero precincts with distributed energy systems. The paper sets out the new planning practice required to deliver such net zero corridors with community-based power, governance, local transport systems, and urban design to create strong place-based urban activation. This requires a particular focus on the type of urban fabric in each corridor. The paper illustrates how it can work based on a five-year research project in Australian cities. Four steps to deliver a net zero corridor are outlined. The paper is complemented by the Commentary on “Trackless Trams: An Emerging Transformative Opportunity,” by Peter Newman showing the personal journey to change the priorities of cities in transport and energy.

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