Do you want to see your city transform into a greener, healthier, and safer place to live? Imagine a city that opens up space for walking, biking, and public transport. A place where communities and local business can thrive.
It’s in the air.
Poor air quality is a worldwide public health emergency; air pollution accounts for over 8 million deaths annually. Mayors are taking action and collaborating with youth, businesses, healthcare professionals, disability advocates and civil society organisations to continue to improve air quality. Air quality in C40 cities has significantly improved in the two decades from 2002 to 2022.Clean air zones are areas of a city where measures have been introduced to reduce toxic air pollution, prioritize people over cars, and promote a shift to active travel including walking, cycling and public transport.
What will you create for your clean air zone?
We are excited to showcase six fantastic student designs from the Business and Entrepreneurship Virtual Academy in Los Angeles Unified School District. These students answered the challenge to design ideas for a clean air zone in Los Angeles. Their proposals present comprehensive solutions to improve air quality - from community participation and urban gardens to green energy and public transport.“These student videos not only showcase creativity and passion but also highlight the innovative solutions our young minds are proposing to combat environmental challenges. It's clear that this generation is not just aware of the challenges we face but is also eager to take action, demonstrating that they are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also the changemakers of today." Pablo Gaeta, Business and Entrepreneurship Virtual Academy Educator
"The huge south window of the library gives off a beautiful nature experience and keeps the library warm in winter and cool in summer. [...] We have a station for bikes to come in and park, this increases the chances of people biking to the library rather than driving to the library" Eco Library, Business and Entrepreneurship Virtual Academy student
"We focus on a low carbon footprint and reducing air pollution. [...] This electric charging station allows cars to charge and wash while conveniently situated by a convenience store for snacks and refreshments. We also have bike paths, buses, and wind turbines to promote a cleaner city." Low Carbon City, Business and Entrepreneurship Virtual Academy student
"This city hall has a space for bike users to park and another for electric car users. When you walk to the front of the town hall you see there is a book asking you what you would rather have. You could either vote, or you can walk to the 'problem book' where you can write down any problems for the town hall to fix" Ozone Friendly, Business and Entrepreneurship Virtual Academy student
"In the heart of the city is a community park where residents can enjoy activities and connect with nature. To promote sustainable transportation, the park features bike lanes, with two on each side for safe entry and exit, and bike racks located in each area. [Each home] is coated in ultra white paint ... it helps with keeping the interior naturally cool while reducing the reliance on air conditioning." Green Oasis, Business and Entrepreneurship Virtual Academy student
"The vegetable garden lets visitors grow and harvest their own vegetables, a hands-on way to learn about growing food. The wildflower bush is a peaceful spot to sit, read, or enjoy the view. [...] We have a little bee sanctuary where we have two beehives. Bees make honey from the flowers, helping both our environment and visitors to enjoy fresh honey." Plant Sanctuary, Business and Entrepreneurship Virtual Academy student
"We have the greenhouses, and inside are many awesome plants which people can take home and grow ...after that they can teach others how to grow plants. [...] We have our community garden: in the gardens there is fresh vegetation which is free so anyone who cannot afford much can live a healthy life and people who grow the garden and vegetables can get community service hours." Eco Relaxation, Business and Entrepreneurship Virtual Academy student
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