Research an example of sustainable development anywhere in the world. Describe how the project was designed to limit environmental damage and reduce energy consumption.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

A fascinating sustainable development project is being considered by the nation of Libya in North Africa. The project, called Green Mountain, covers a 5,500-square-kilometer area on the Mediterranean coast (see Figure 6.8). It is an area with a rich Greek and Roman historical heritage and a large and diverse animal and plant population. According to the developer, the goal of the project is “to create and protect in perpetuity the world’s first regionalscale, world-class conservation and development area.” The project will develop a sustainable infrastructure. It will do the following: derive energy from wind and solar power; use organic methods of farming, aquaculture, and food production; develop waste management and recycling facilities that will convert trash into biofuel; use closed-loop water systems; and use energy-efficient transport and housing. An ecological parkland will be included. Green Mountain project managers are committed to the development and use of sustainable and renewable sources of energy and raw materials.