America’s green cities are setting benchmarks for the rest of the world with bold innovations and environmentally conscious businesses
1. Los Angeles, California
Curbing the emissions of the city’s factories is a priority. Governor of California Jerry Brown recently pushed through a bill extending the regulation of greenhouse gases until 2030.
Clean connections: Los Angeles has an effective light-rail system, with four lines that cover large parts of the city. More light-rail and subway lines are under construction.
Eat right: With year-round access to great produce, LA is a haven for aware eaters. A favourite among them is organic market and cafe Locali Healthy Convenience (below), which offers vegan, non-GMO delights.
Fair play: Few locals are aware that the city has a river, parts of which you can explore on guided kayaking excursions with Los Angeles Conservation Corps during the warmer months.
2. Portland, Oregon
About a third of Oregon’s greenhouse gas emissions come from vehicles. To reduce that, the Portland City Council recently approved a plan to convert the methane in Portland’s sewer system into natural gas, a renewable substitute for diesel and petrol.
Clean connections: Portland has more than 563km of bike lanes, and its cycling and walking maps come in several languages; some are even waterproof.
Eat right: Farm-to-table restaurants are common here – not surprising, given the city’s many urban and rural farms. Try Meriwether’s for seasonal produce sourced directly from its 2-hectare farm.
Fair play: Television series Portlandia has inspired a bike tour of the city, with stops at filming locations. Book it via tour agency Viator.
3. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is the first city in the nation to require a green building standard. Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker is also asking for proposals for the construction of a wind farm.
Clean connections: Biking in the city has become easier thanks to an innovation dreamt up at Massachusetts Institute of Technology: the Copenhagen Wheel (below), a motor hub that is attached to the rear wheel, turning your ride into an electric one.
Eat right: Toro, which has a nose-to-tail dining concept, serves up Spanish dishes with locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.
Fair play: Established in 1837, Public Garden is famous for its rich collection of flora, exotic trees and meandering pathways.
– TEXT BY JAMES BARTLETT
PHOTOS: SUPPLIED, COPENHAGEN WHEEL, LOCALI HEALTHY CONVENIENCE, PORTLAND BUREAU OF TRANSPORTATION, TORO RESTAURANT, L.A. RIVER EXPEDITIONS
This article was originally published by Singapore Press Holdings.
