A more sustainable future is being pursued in most urban areas and metropolitans in the Philippines. Beyond real estate, the push for green extends to how people move around and touches on alternatives that are eco-friendlier and more resilient.
Sustainable transportation takes into consideration the effects of mode of travel on the environment and climate. One of its many benefits is in the improvement of air quality in these cities as fewer vehicles travel, effectively reducing pollution. This also decreases greenhouse gases emission and makes major thoroughfares less congested for easier mobility.
There are also wellness and health benefits for individuals who adopt the lifestyle of biking or cycling, carpooling, and the use of electric scooters to get to places. It is known to improve cardiovascular performance and help in stress reduction especially with the mental strain brought about by the pandemic.
Through the utilization of sustainable transport, noise pollution is also dramatically reduced. According to a study, loud sounds are known to increase stress hormone levels. The longer that these hormones remain in the bloodstream, the higher the risk of acquiring physiological diseases.
It is also more cost-efficient as you can save on fares, gas, or car maintenance expenses. Experts claim that the adoption of sustainable transport alternatives can create more job opportunities for people working in construction, design, technology, and manufacturing.
The Future of Micro-mobilities and Wellness
The Asia Pacific region is yet to further explore the potential of micro-mobilities sharing such as electric scooters. According to MIT, this is due to the lack of infrastructure and cost that can allow it to prosper such as charging stations or designated parking spaces.
However, more LEED buildings are supportive of the shift to sustainable transportation. Cycling or biking becomes the go-to focal point as a study shows that it also plays a positive role in paving the way for the development of environmentally sustainable cities. After all, bikes have small road space allocation and a relatively low energy requirement in production and maintenance.
Similarly, developments in the country such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia is doing their part in the global zero-emission movement to reduce carbon footprint. The LEED pre-certified Silver building has allocated a space for bike racks to entice more occupants to join in on the green initiative.
Moreover, as part of JEG Development Corporation’s wellness program, employees are encouraged to own a bike through the budget assigned and use it for transport. It has also become an effective social activity that is advantageous for the physical and mental fitness of the team.
In the post-lockdown landscape, mobility proves to be a crucial point of consideration in the road to a more sustainable future. Improving resilience and transitioning to a low-emissions setting through a green recovery will reduce the risk of pandemic vulnerability and can have the potential to boost economic activity.
Gearing towards a more sustainable workplace? Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 or send an email to lorenzo.rodriguez@kmcmaggroup.com.
