Deep reductions in greenhouse gas emissions require new patterns of density and land use and innovative technologies at multiple scales. The half-tonne block (HTB) establishes new forms and technologies for high- potential blocks near transit. Ultra-high efficiency laneway housing meets 2030 Challenge targets, supported by on-site combined heat and power generation. GHG emissions from vehicles are reduced through the provision of electric co-op vehicles. HTB quadruples population while reducing total GHG emissions by 60% (images 1, 2). Per capita emissions are reduced from over 5 tonnes per person to less than 1 tonne (image 4). Liveability increases with the addition of public amenities and affordable housing (image 3).
The rapid transformation required can only result if the intervention made precipitates further change. The half-tonne block (HTB) serves as this catalyst by supporting an incremental conversion centred on the more efficient provision of services. A new mixed-use centre, HTB provides on-site electricity and heating energy, amenity space and small-unit, rental housing. Intensified service provision along the commercial lane allows for the greening of the interior of the block. This 'backyard' lined with a range of housing over time becomes the spine of a pedestrian-focused block. HTB allows for this change: parking is replaced by electric vehicle co-op, dumpsters by intensified composting and recycling, and remote power transmission by small-scale district energy. Further, community space allows for childcare or other small businesses and greenspace facilitates gardening and play (image 7). The project becomes one site in a framework strategically located along transit arteries, with each structure tailored to its community (image 5).
The half-tonne block (HTB)project addresses the potential of Vancouver blocks near major transit to transform over the next 20 years into highly land and energy ef¬ficient urban units that cut greenhouse gas emissions while increasing liveability and affordability. The rapid and deep action on climate change called for by the City cannot be achieved through timidity. Blocks near high-capacity transit, and low-density residential blocks in particular, have the greatest capacity for innovative contributions to greenhouse gas mitigation. HTB seeks to test the limits of this assertion, increasing the number of residents by 300% while reducing the block's total greenhouse gas emissions by 60%, resulting in per capita emissions of just one-half tonne.
(From competitor's text)
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