When consulting engineers talk about green infrastructure, they’re not referring to a specific technology, as the term describes the natural environment that surrounds urban conurbations. In this context, it often refers to nature and how it can be harnessed by M&E consulting engineers to deliver critical services for the urban populace. It is recognised as being a vital component for sustainable, living areas for human beings and it can be utilised in a number of ways, whether it’s about protecting them against excessive heat, improving water quality or mitigating flooding. Whenever nature is harnessed by mechanical and electrical engineers and employed as an element of a community’s overall infrastructure, the term ‘green infrastructure’ is used.
Green infrastructure is a strategically planned network of natural and semi-natural areas designed and managed to deliver a wide range of ecosystem services such as water purification, air quality, space for recreation and climate mitigation and adaptation. This network of green (land) and blue (water) spaces can improve environmental conditions and therefore citizens' health and quality of life.
Why is Green Infrastructure Important?
It goes without saying that the environment is important to everyone of us and its protection is vital to our continued survival. Much has occurred in recent years to pollute the land, air and water and to cause biodiversity to be lost and green infrastructure is just one concept that works to include these vital natural assets and ensure their long-term existence.
It’s such an important aspect of overall infrastructure development, as systems are designed to enhance biodiversity and ensure that steps are taken to protect natural areas for future generations to enjoy, whilst at the same time providing services to urban areas that negate the need for the use of non-natural technologies.
A Greener Future
At Varming Consulting Engineers Ireland, we are fully behind all efforts to work greener and cleaner. Declan Alcock of Varming Consulting Engineers is one of the European experts taking part in the ARCC2030 project promoting Nature Based Solutions for resilient cities & communities.
If you would like to know more about anything described here, you can find out lots of information about sustainable design on our website www.varming.ie as well as details of our previous work. Alternatively, if would like a chat with a member of our knowledgeable team, call us now on +353 (0)1 4872300.
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