Settlement planning has numerous practical benefits for individuals and communities as a whole. One of the critical areas it affects is employment, as effective planning creates development opportunities and jobs. Additionally, it can help reduce anti-social behavior by creating inclusive and safe neighborhoods that promote social interactions and cohesion among residents.
Furthermore, valuing old builds over new builds can have environmental benefits, as it reduces the impact of construction on the environment. By preserving existing infrastructure, we can minimize the use of energy resources needed to build newer structures while reducing waste generation that arises from demolition.
Infused or embedded carbon in old builds, including historic buildings, is a valuable carbon depository that should be preserved and expanded through future construction to effectively tackle the climate crisis. These embedded carbon elements include timber beams, bricks, and stones, which date back centuries and have stored carbon for a long time. Preserving these elements in historic buildings requires ongoing maintenance and repair, but if they are dismantled, the carbon stored in them can be lost. Thus, it is critical to focus on preserving and amplifying these carbon storage features in future constructions. Using traditional construction techniques and locally sourced materials can also help reduce the carbon footprint of new buildings. By preserving and expanding these invaluable carbon depositories, we can make a significant contribution to mitigating the effects of the climate crisis.
Finally, by promoting sustainable and replaceable cultures through settlement planning, we can positively influence the choices we make when it comes to choosing living and working spaces. This would also help reduce waste generation and resources while contributing to the development of more environmentally-friendly settlements that promote a healthier and prosperous way of life for everyone.
