GEOGRAPHY Is that a luge in Times Square? Schussing in Central Park? As the Winter Olympics officially kick off in Sochi, think about space and scale by imagining the games in a more urban environment. (New York Times) Use our resources to better understand urban planning. Discussion Ideas Take a look at the terrific New York Times infographic, and the relative scale of urban landmarks … Continue reading Bobsledding the Boroughs?
UNITED STATES According to a new ranking by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, many of the nation’s cities are instituting a variety of energy-saving measures, and Boston tops the list. (National Geographic News) Be the mayor of your own city in our “Plan it Green” game, and see if you can match Boston for energy efficiency. Discussion Ideas The American Council for an … Continue reading Boston Ranked as Most Energy-Efficient U.S. City
WORLD The “Walkie Talkie Building,” a name Londoners have given a popular, distinctively shaped skyscraper, has been in the news this week after reflected sunlight from its mirrored facade melted the side mirrors and panels on a Jaguar XJ parked on a nearby street. (National Geographic News) Use our resources to understand solar energy and how urban planners weigh the priorities of different city shareholders. … Continue reading Skyscraper Melts Car!
WORLD Old Port City Leaps into High-Tech Future The Spanish city of Santander is using a network of sensors to help improve services and save money. The sensors measure everything from air pollution to where there are free parking spaces. They can even tell garbage collectors which bins are full, and automatically dim street lights when no one is around. Discussion Ideas: Using an app … Continue reading Old Port City Leaps into High-Tech Future
WORLD San Diego Opens City Office . . in Tijuana Opening a satellite city office in a far-flung neighborhood is not unusual in sprawling cities like San Diego, California. But one thing sets apart Mayor Bob Filner’s newest outpost: It is in another country. “Dos ciudades, pero una region—we are two cities, but one region,” Filner said. Discussion Ideas: The new San Diego city office … Continue reading San Diego Opens City Office . . in Tijuana
