Technologies for creation or rehabilitation of urban neigh-bourhoods in energy-effícient communities

Abstract

Due to the rapid urbanization process, more than 50% of the world population li- ves today in urban areas, and considering the case of Portugal, this figure exceeds even 70% and with a tendency to increase. This continuous search for cities and the urban lifestyle, generates an increasing con- sumption of resources, and many of these are non-renewable. Energy is now intrinsi- cally linked to technological development, given it powers all such systems. The use of fossil fuels to supply the required energy is causing global environmental and health issues and is impacting on all Ufe forms on the planet. Tlierefore, it is necessary to replace fossil fuels with renewable energies, biofuels and eco materials and related tech- nologies and to try and find a way to deve- lop sustainable zero emission Solutions for all urban areas.
Tlie energy matrix in which cities were established is based on non-renewable and highly polluting forms. In this way, it is necessary to create urban strategies and tech- nologies that allow the creation of energy efficient urban communities. So, this article aims to discuss energy-efficiency in communities, management Systems and energy use strategies. As an example, they are pre- sented Portuguese case studies of recogni- sed merit.