Paris, known as the City of Lights, is gearing up for a remarkable transformation as it prepares to host the much-anticipated 2024 Olympic Games. While the city is abuzz with extensive construction projects to meet the infrastructure demands of the global event, the Paris city council is also utilizing this opportunity to prioritize environmental sustainability and make the city more climate-friendly.
With a focus on tackling climate change, the Paris city council has announced plans to expedite work on adapting its buildings and roads over the summer. Deputy construction manager revealed that during this period, the French capital will undertake approximately 1,700 projects in its public buildings, with an estimated cost of around $197mn. The primary objective of these initiatives is to enhance environmental operations, such as building insulation, energy performance, and ventilation.
In addition to the environmental efforts, the city council has also outlined maintenance and improvement projects. This includes renovation work on school toilets and 22 accessibility projects, aiming to make educational facilities more conducive to students' needs.
Communist deputy Jacques Baudrier emphasized that these projects, though not necessarily more numerous than before, are of a more substantial nature. The city council's approach is centered on greening the urban landscape, facilitating cycling, and renovating buildings to significantly higher standards than previously achieved.
Climate crisis with infrastructure
Central to the city council's agenda is the commitment to addressing the climate crisis through its infrastructure. The council aims to reduce the energy consumption of its 3,600 public buildings by 30% by 2030 and ultimately achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. This endeavor particularly focuses on school buildings, with ongoing work in 466 out of the city's 638 schools.
Another notable project in the works is the creation of 32 'oasis' school grounds, featuring lush greenery, fountains, and shaded areas. These spaces will not only provide an improved environment for students but also contribute to the city's overall efforts to enhance sustainability.
Furthermore, the city council plans to replace 3,200 windows in its public buildings, marking an unprecedented accomplishment in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability. Councillor Jacques Baudrier highlighted the James Baldwin multimedia library as a prominent project that exemplifies the city's commitment to using eco-friendly and naturally ventilated spaces. He expressed confidence that this flagship building will gain international recognition for its innovative design and construction.
Cleaner city
In its pursuit of a cleaner city, Paris is prioritizing cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation. The Town Hall has reported 522 rights of way, but due to ongoing work on the tramway and the construction of 26 kilometers of new cycle paths, the total surface area affected amounts to approximately 1.2mn square meters. David Belliard, EELV deputy for mobility, stressed the necessity of these larger-scale worksites, emphasizing the urgent need to address climate change and air pollution.
To ensure smooth operations during the Olympic Games, the elected representatives announced a freeze on road and network works in Paris between June 15 and September 15, 2024. This decision aims to minimize disruptions and inconveniences for athletes, visitors, and residents alike. All ongoing worksites will need to be completed or withdrawn and secured by this deadline.
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