Political challenges, best practices and recommendations for energy sustainable municipalities

Abstract

Integrated system solutions, together with improved management of municipal infrastructure and environments, are essential to address energy challenges. A number of aspects should be examined and developed, including ecocycle models demonstrating integrated solutions for energy, waste and water, integrated land use and transportation, ecosystems planning, sustainable building design, and strategies to reduce air pollution. It is imperative to apply the principles of sustainable development and support smart solutions today if we are not to compromise the ability of future generations to meet their needs tomorrow. We should think of urban systems as living organisms and find synergies between urban processes in a mutually beneficial union. Human beings are social beings, and urban environments provide a wide range and choice of social, educational, cultural and economic opportunities. This paper presents the challenges related to sustainable development and proposes solutions for municipalities that aim to become sustainable.