Green Infrastructure
Green infrastructure means the networks of green areas which provide multiple social, economic and environmental benefits to society. These include protecting nature and natural systems, providing a network of green space for people, and underpinning economic prosperity by creating a high-quality environment.
Green Infrastructure Conference
A Green Infrastructure Conference organised by the Council took place on 4th & 5th November 2008 in the Grand Hotel, Malahide, Co. Dublin. The conference was the first of its kind to be held in Ireland and brought together a wide-range of expertise from the USA, England, Scotland, The Netherlands, Sweden and Ireland. Mr John Gormley, TD, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government attended as one of the keynote speakers.
The conference was well attended by planners, architects, engineers, ecologists, elected officials, community representatives, academics, landscape and parks professionals and all those interested in exploring the development of green infrastructure planning and delivery in Ireland.
In addition, the Council worked with a local company, Step Green, to undertake a carbon footprint assessment of the event to ensure that it was carbon neutral. This was done by reducing emissions through energy efficient and waste reduction practices, and for unavoidable emissions, by verified emission reductions (carbon credits) that meet the Voluntary Carbon Standard.
Green City Guidelines
The Green City Guidelines provide easy access, practical ways that local authorities, planners and property developers can protect and enhance biodiversity while developing medium to high density urban schemes.