- Balancing Aesthetics And Environmental Responsibility: Sustainable Urban Development
Opinions on topical issues from thought leaders, columnists and editors.
By :
Oswald Timothy Edward
As someone deeply interested in sustainability and urban development, I was filled with anticipation ahead of my visit to Russia. Moscow and St. Petersburg, two of the world's most stunning cities, have long fascinated me – not only for their historical and architectural grandeur but also for their evolving commitment to sustainable urbanisation.
I was eager to explore how Russia integrates the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its urban planning, particularly in beautifying and illuminating its cities while ensuring sustainability.
My journey was not just about witnessing these cities' visual splendour but also about understanding how the Russian government balances aesthetics with environmental responsibility.
From energy-efficient lighting to smart urban planning, Moscow and St. Petersburg have taken notable steps toward sustainability. This article delves into the measures adopted by these cities, with a particular focus on SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
Energy-efficient illumination and smart lighting
Moscow, the vibrant heart of Russia, exudes energy at all hours. Its iconic landmarks – such as the Kremlin, Red Square and St. Basil's Cathedral – are illuminated in ways that enhance their breathtaking architecture. However, beyond aesthetics, Moscow's lighting systems are being revolutionised to be more sustainable.
The Moscow government has implemented widespread LED lighting across the city. Replacing traditional sodium-vapour lamps with LEDs has significantly reduced energy consumption, aligning with SDG 7's emphasis on clean energy.
Additionally, the city has embraced smart lighting systems that adjust brightness based on pedestrian and vehicular movement, conserving energy while reducing light pollution.
What impressed me most was the integration of AI and smart grids in managing Moscow's streetlights. These systems enable real-time monitoring, ensuring optimal energy use and efficiency.
The city's commitment to intelligent urban planning has set a precedent for other global metropolises aiming to balance beauty with sustainability.
Green spaces and sustainable urban planning
Another aspect of Moscow's sustainable development that caught my attention was its emphasis on green spaces. Despite being a bustling capital, the city has invested heavily in urban greenery.
Gorky Park, Zaryadye Park, and VDNH are prime examples of how Moscow seamlessly integrates nature into its urban fabric.
Zaryadye Park particularly stood out. Built on the former site of the massive Hotel Rossiya, the park features various climate zones that reflect Russia's diverse ecosystems.
Its energy-efficient infrastructure, underground concert hall, and eco-friendly design help minimise the urban heat island effect while enhancing biodiversity. Walking through the park, I was struck by how sustainability and modernity could harmoniously co-exist in such a dynamic city.
Architectural illumination with a green touch
St. Petersburg, Russia's cultural capital, captivated me with its blend of baroque and neoclassical architecture. The city's nighttime illumination adds to its enchanting ambiance, showcasing landmarks like the Winter Palace, Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood, and Peter and Paul Fortress in spectacular fashion.
However, maintaining this grandeur while incorporating sustainability measures is no small feat.
The city has taken considerable steps to retrofit its historical buildings with energy-efficient lighting. LED floodlights now illuminate many heritage structures, ensuring they remain visually striking without excessive energy consumption.
Additionally, St. Petersburg has upgraded its street lighting to LED technology, reducing energy waste and aligning with global sustainability efforts.
Water management and eco-friendly transportation
St. Petersburg's geographical location, surrounded by rivers and canals, makes water management a critical sustainability challenge. To align with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), the city has introduced advanced water filtration systems for the Neva River, ensuring cleaner water for both residents and tourists.
Eco-friendly transportation is another area where St. Petersburg is making significant strides. Its well-developed metro and tram system help minimise car dependency, reducing emissions and traffic congestion.
The recent introduction of electric buses has further reinforced the city's commitment to SDG 13 (Climate Action). Riding on one of these electric buses, I appreciated how the city balances historic preservation with forward-thinking sustainability policies.
The role of government and public-private partnerships
Both Moscow and St. Petersburg's sustainability initiatives are largely driven by government policies and strategic public-private partnerships. Russia's national commitment to the Paris Agreement has played a key role in shaping these urban projects.
A standout initiative is the "Smart City Moscow" project, which integrates digital technologies to optimise energy use and urban infrastructure. AI-driven data monitoring of electricity, traffic, and waste management ensures efficient city operations, making Moscow one of the most technologically advanced smart cities in the world.
Moreover, private companies have actively contributed to financing sustainability initiatives. Russian energy corporations have invested in LED lighting projects, green architecture, and energy-efficient urban planning.
These collaborations highlight the importance of shared responsibility in achieving sustainability goals.
Challenges and future prospects
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. One of the primary concerns is preserving historical structures while integrating modern sustainability measures. Renovations must be carefully executed to ensure energy efficiency without compromising architectural integrity.
Another challenge is fostering greater public awareness and engagement. While the government has implemented various sustainability initiatives, broader participation from residents and businesses is crucial for long-term success.
Increased educational campaigns on energy conservation, responsible tourism, and waste management could further strengthen these efforts.
Looking ahead, Russia has immense potential to enhance its sustainability commitments. Expanding renewable energy sources, investing in urban biodiversity, and adopting circular economy practices will be essential for continued progress.
The promotion of electric vehicle infrastructure and further development of AI-driven urban planning could place Moscow and St. Petersburg at the forefront of sustainable city models.
My visit to Moscow and St. Petersburg reaffirmed that urban beauty and sustainability can co-exist. Both cities have demonstrated impressive efforts in achieving SDG 7 and SDG 11 through energy-efficient lighting, smart urban planning, and eco-friendly transportation.
The Russian government's commitment to sustainability, alongside strategic public-private partnerships, has created a model that balances aesthetics with environmental responsibility.
As cities around the world strive for sustainability, Moscow and St. Petersburg provide valuable lessons on integrating modern technology with historical preservation. My experience in these vibrant cities was not only visually captivating but also intellectually enriching, reinforcing the idea that urban illumination can be both beautiful and sustainable.
This journey has inspired me to continue exploring how global cities are adapting to sustainability challenges while maintaining their unique cultural identities.
-- BERNAMA
Oswald Timothy Edward (oswaldte@gmail.com) is a Senior Lecturer (Risk Management) at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Johor.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of BERNAMA)
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Star
an hour ago
- The Star
Rubio to attend Asean Summit in Malaysia on Thursday
WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will make his first trip to Asia since taking up his post, traveling this week to Malaysia for meetings with Asean allies, his office said Monday (July 7). The trip, starting Tuesday (July 8), will see Rubio, who is also President Donald Trump's national security advisor, focus on US policy in Asia after months of Washington concentrating on the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. "In his first trip to Asia as Secretary of State, Secretary Rubio is focused on reaffirming the United States' commitment to advancing a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region," spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said in a statement, using Washington's traditional wording aimed at curbing China's growing influence in the Asia-Pacific region. Prioritizing and reaffirming Washington's commitment to East Asia and Southeast Asia "is in America's interest," a senior State Department official told reporters on condition of anonymity. "It promotes American prosperity and promotes American security," the official added. As with any trip to Asia by a US official, China will be the elephant in the room amid concerns over its expansionary behavior in the South China Sea, which the United States deems to be provocative. The visit also comes as many countries around the world are waiting for the next step in Trump's tariff wars. Sweeping levies announced in April were mostly suspended, as Washington engages in negotiations with friends and foes alike. On Monday, Trump said he would impose 25% on key US allies Japan and South Korea and a handful of others, including Malaysia (25%) and Laos (40%), as of Aug 1. Export-dependent Vietnam, which like Malaysia and Laos is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), is one of the few countries to already reach a tentative agreement with Washington that spares it the high level of levies that Trump had threatened. At a summit in late May, Southeast Asian leaders expressed their deep concern at Trump's protectionist offensive. The senior US official said the issue was expected to be raised, and that Rubio would likely tell Asean that the United States wants to "rebalance" its trade relationships. A deadline on the tariffs is due to expire on Wednesday (July 9), with Trump suggesting elevated levies would snap back into place on Aug 1 for any trading partners who do not make a deal. Rubio's visit to Kuala Lumpur on Thursday (July 10) and Friday (July 11) coincides with that of his Russian and Chinese counterparts, Sergei Lavrov and Wang Yi. While there, Rubio is scheduled to attend a meeting with his counterparts from Asean and with a gathering of both Asean and East Asian foreign ministers. Last week, Rubio welcomed foreign ministers from Australia, India and Japan to Washington, where they pledged to work together to ensure a stable supply of critical minerals. China's domination of such resources - essential to new technologies - is causing increasing concern in western Europe and the United States. - AFP
The Star
5 hours ago
- The Star
Consistent policies drive foreign investment, says Fahmi
In the mountains: Fahmi (right) speaking to members of the Malaysian diaspora at Rumah Malaysia in Geneva, Switzerland. — Bernama GENEVA: Clear and consistent government policies, backed by political stability, are among the key factors drawing foreign investors to Malaysia, says Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Speaking at a gathering with the Malaysian diaspora on Sunday, Fahmi cited the Madani Economy framework, the 12th Malaysia Plan, the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the National Energy Transition Roadmap as examples of coherent policies. 'These policies provide clarity and assurance to investors. They trust that such policies won't be changed arbitrarily.' He referred to recent data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia and the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry as proof that Malaysia continues to be a preferred destination for foreign direct investment. According to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority, approved investments for the first quarter of 2025 totalled RM89.8bil, a 3.7% year-on-year increase, despite global economic headwinds. The gathering, held at Rumah Malaysia here, was attended by around 50 Malaysians, including students, professionals and staff from the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to the United Nations. Also present was Malaysia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Datuk Nadzirah Osman. During the event, Fahmi also highlighted Malaysia's progress in the communications sector. 'Malaysia is among the top 10 countries in the world with the cheapest Internet, and we have the second fastest Internet speed in the Asia-Pacific region after South Korea,' he said, Bernama reported. 'This programme allows Malaysians in Geneva to share views with the minister and receive first-hand updates on current developments back home,' Nadzirah said. Syakira Ramli, Malaysian Association of Geneva president, said various topics were discussed during the event, including areas where Malaysia could improve by learning from Switzerland. For Malvyn Tan, the International Air Transport Association head of commercial fuel, the gathering provided an opportunity for the Malaysian diaspora to share feedback and express their views. 'I think Fahmi is very open and receptive, and this made us very comfortable to share our experiences while he shares the developments in Malaysia,' he said. Fahmi is leading the Malaysian delegation to the World Summit on the Information Society+20 High-Level Event, from July 7 to 11, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen an inclusive national communications technology ecosystem aligned with Sustainable Development Goals.
Barnama
a day ago
- Barnama
- Balancing Aesthetics And Environmental Responsibility: Sustainable Urban Development
07/07/2025 11:49 AM Opinions on topical issues from thought leaders, columnists and editors. By : Oswald Timothy Edward As someone deeply interested in sustainability and urban development, I was filled with anticipation ahead of my visit to Russia. Moscow and St. Petersburg, two of the world's most stunning cities, have long fascinated me – not only for their historical and architectural grandeur but also for their evolving commitment to sustainable urbanisation. I was eager to explore how Russia integrates the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its urban planning, particularly in beautifying and illuminating its cities while ensuring sustainability. My journey was not just about witnessing these cities' visual splendour but also about understanding how the Russian government balances aesthetics with environmental responsibility. From energy-efficient lighting to smart urban planning, Moscow and St. Petersburg have taken notable steps toward sustainability. This article delves into the measures adopted by these cities, with a particular focus on SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Energy-efficient illumination and smart lighting Moscow, the vibrant heart of Russia, exudes energy at all hours. Its iconic landmarks – such as the Kremlin, Red Square and St. Basil's Cathedral – are illuminated in ways that enhance their breathtaking architecture. However, beyond aesthetics, Moscow's lighting systems are being revolutionised to be more sustainable. The Moscow government has implemented widespread LED lighting across the city. Replacing traditional sodium-vapour lamps with LEDs has significantly reduced energy consumption, aligning with SDG 7's emphasis on clean energy. Additionally, the city has embraced smart lighting systems that adjust brightness based on pedestrian and vehicular movement, conserving energy while reducing light pollution. What impressed me most was the integration of AI and smart grids in managing Moscow's streetlights. These systems enable real-time monitoring, ensuring optimal energy use and efficiency. The city's commitment to intelligent urban planning has set a precedent for other global metropolises aiming to balance beauty with sustainability. Green spaces and sustainable urban planning Another aspect of Moscow's sustainable development that caught my attention was its emphasis on green spaces. Despite being a bustling capital, the city has invested heavily in urban greenery. Gorky Park, Zaryadye Park, and VDNH are prime examples of how Moscow seamlessly integrates nature into its urban fabric. Zaryadye Park particularly stood out. Built on the former site of the massive Hotel Rossiya, the park features various climate zones that reflect Russia's diverse ecosystems. Its energy-efficient infrastructure, underground concert hall, and eco-friendly design help minimise the urban heat island effect while enhancing biodiversity. Walking through the park, I was struck by how sustainability and modernity could harmoniously co-exist in such a dynamic city. Architectural illumination with a green touch St. Petersburg, Russia's cultural capital, captivated me with its blend of baroque and neoclassical architecture. The city's nighttime illumination adds to its enchanting ambiance, showcasing landmarks like the Winter Palace, Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood, and Peter and Paul Fortress in spectacular fashion. However, maintaining this grandeur while incorporating sustainability measures is no small feat. The city has taken considerable steps to retrofit its historical buildings with energy-efficient lighting. LED floodlights now illuminate many heritage structures, ensuring they remain visually striking without excessive energy consumption. Additionally, St. Petersburg has upgraded its street lighting to LED technology, reducing energy waste and aligning with global sustainability efforts. Water management and eco-friendly transportation St. Petersburg's geographical location, surrounded by rivers and canals, makes water management a critical sustainability challenge. To align with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), the city has introduced advanced water filtration systems for the Neva River, ensuring cleaner water for both residents and tourists. Eco-friendly transportation is another area where St. Petersburg is making significant strides. Its well-developed metro and tram system help minimise car dependency, reducing emissions and traffic congestion. The recent introduction of electric buses has further reinforced the city's commitment to SDG 13 (Climate Action). Riding on one of these electric buses, I appreciated how the city balances historic preservation with forward-thinking sustainability policies. The role of government and public-private partnerships Both Moscow and St. Petersburg's sustainability initiatives are largely driven by government policies and strategic public-private partnerships. Russia's national commitment to the Paris Agreement has played a key role in shaping these urban projects. A standout initiative is the "Smart City Moscow" project, which integrates digital technologies to optimise energy use and urban infrastructure. AI-driven data monitoring of electricity, traffic, and waste management ensures efficient city operations, making Moscow one of the most technologically advanced smart cities in the world. Moreover, private companies have actively contributed to financing sustainability initiatives. Russian energy corporations have invested in LED lighting projects, green architecture, and energy-efficient urban planning. These collaborations highlight the importance of shared responsibility in achieving sustainability goals. Challenges and future prospects Despite these advancements, challenges remain. One of the primary concerns is preserving historical structures while integrating modern sustainability measures. Renovations must be carefully executed to ensure energy efficiency without compromising architectural integrity. Another challenge is fostering greater public awareness and engagement. While the government has implemented various sustainability initiatives, broader participation from residents and businesses is crucial for long-term success. Increased educational campaigns on energy conservation, responsible tourism, and waste management could further strengthen these efforts. Looking ahead, Russia has immense potential to enhance its sustainability commitments. Expanding renewable energy sources, investing in urban biodiversity, and adopting circular economy practices will be essential for continued progress. The promotion of electric vehicle infrastructure and further development of AI-driven urban planning could place Moscow and St. Petersburg at the forefront of sustainable city models. My visit to Moscow and St. Petersburg reaffirmed that urban beauty and sustainability can co-exist. Both cities have demonstrated impressive efforts in achieving SDG 7 and SDG 11 through energy-efficient lighting, smart urban planning, and eco-friendly transportation. The Russian government's commitment to sustainability, alongside strategic public-private partnerships, has created a model that balances aesthetics with environmental responsibility. As cities around the world strive for sustainability, Moscow and St. Petersburg provide valuable lessons on integrating modern technology with historical preservation. My experience in these vibrant cities was not only visually captivating but also intellectually enriching, reinforcing the idea that urban illumination can be both beautiful and sustainable. This journey has inspired me to continue exploring how global cities are adapting to sustainability challenges while maintaining their unique cultural identities. -- BERNAMA Oswald Timothy Edward (oswaldte@ is a Senior Lecturer (Risk Management) at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Johor. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of BERNAMA)
