60
Sustainability and the built environment
Storage technologies
It is likely that advances in electricity storage techniques will enhance the benefits of
using renewable energy. Though still an emerging technology, energy storage enables
distributed or locally produced power to be kept, in suitable conditions, before being
consumed, when needed, at peak times. Until then, excess electricity generated by
renewable power can be channelled back into the grid via a two-way electricity meter
connection. Energy generated thus can be offset against energy use at times when
renewable power generation is inactive.
6.3 Transport
The sustainability potential of cities is affected strongly by transport and, in particular,
the relationships between transport, energy and land use. However, the current
freedom of travel we enjoy, along with the variety of methods by which it is possible,
make transport a challenging area to address socially.
Solutions are best implemented at the planning stage, since it provides more scope
for altering behaviour patterns. Possible answers to many transport related problems
can be broken down into the following four, roughly hierarchical categories:
• reducing the number of trips needed, e.g. by supporting home-working
• encouraging walking or cycling wherever possible, which has the added
advantages to health
• making sure that facilities are positioned accessibly, within realistically planned
communities
• promoting and improving public transport.
Transport problems cannot be solved by the introduction of sustainable fuels alone.
Public transport is important, not only in terms of reducing emissions but also in
reducing the number of vehicles on the road, particularly at peak times. Work from
home schemes are valid alternatives to commuting and should be promoted wherever
practicable. When it comes to persuading people to cycle, isolated measures such
as providing designated cycle paths are insufficient. The wider issues of safety and
security must be addressed in tandem with campaigns and financial incentives.
Providing shower and/or changing facilities, particularly in workplaces, and adapting
public transport vehicles to make travelling with a bicycle easier would be further
encouragement.
In addition to public transport, planning strategies should take into account urban
sprawl, population densities, and access to services within communities. Modes of
public transport should be integrated to ensure that services run at convenient times
and are dovetailed in a way which makes them efficient and cost competitive. They
should also operate using renewable fuel sources where possible.
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