Armen Hayrapetyan, the head of the food safety inspection body of the Republic of Armenia, and Sergey Dankvert, the head of the Federal Veterinary and Phytosanitary Control Service of the Russian Federation, discussed the issues related to the ban on the import of agricultural products to Russia by 16 Armenian organizations today in the format of a video conference.
As reported by RA SATM, EEC Minister of Industry and Agro-Industrial Complex Gohar Barseghyan also participated in the discussions on the platform of the Eurasian Economic Commission.
Agreements were reached regarding the approaches to the settlement of the problem, within the framework of which negotiations will continue between the deputies of the departments next week,” the message states.
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What are the key components of urban sustainability that cities should focus on?
Time.news Interview: Exploring the Future of Urban Sustainability with Dr. Emily Carter
Editor (Time.news): Welcome, Dr. Carter! It’s fantastic to have you here today. As an expert in urban sustainability, you have a unique perspective on the challenges our cities face. Can you start by telling us a bit about your background and what led you to focus on this field?
Dr. Emily Carter: Thank you for having me! My journey into urban sustainability started with my studies in environmental science and urban planning. witnessing firsthand the effects of climate change and urban sprawl in my hometown sparked my passion for creating sustainable cities. I wanted to find innovative ways to address environmental issues while improving the quality of life for residents.
Editor: That’s inspiring! Urban sustainability is such a critical topic. What do you see as the biggest challenges facing cities today in this area?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely. One of the primary challenges is balancing economic development with environmental protection. Many cities are experiencing rapid growth, which leads to increased energy consumption, waste generation, and resource depletion. Additionally, infrastructure aging exacerbates these issues, making it crucial for cities to invest in sustainable technologies and practices.
Editor: You mentioned the need for investment in sustainable technologies. Can you share some examples of emerging technologies or strategies that are making a difference?
Dr. Carter: Certainly! There are several exciting initiatives. For instance, smart city technologies, like IoT sensors, are helping cities monitor energy usage and traffic patterns in real-time, leading to more efficient resource allocation. Green infrastructure—such as green roofs, permeable pavements, and urban forests—can combat urban heat and manage stormwater. Moreover, many cities are adopting circular economy principles, which focus on reusing materials and reducing waste.
Editor: Those examples are fascinating. How do you think community engagement plays a role in enhancing urban sustainability initiatives?
Dr. Carter: Community engagement is absolutely vital. When residents are involved in the decision-making process, they’re more likely to support and sustain initiatives. Public awareness campaigns and participatory planning can foster a sense of ownership. For example, community gardens not only improve green spaces but also encourage local food production, bringing people together and promoting healthier lifestyles.
Editor: That’s a great point about fostering community ties. With climate change continuing to pose threats, how should cities prioritize their sustainability efforts?
Dr. Carter: I believe cities should adopt a holistic approach to sustainability. This means integrating environmental concerns into every aspect of urban planning, from transportation and housing to waste management and energy systems. It’s also crucial to address social equity—ensuring that marginalized communities have access to green spaces and sustainable resources. Prioritizing resilience planning will help cities withstand climate impacts too.
Editor: Such an integrated approach makes sense—cities really are ecosystems in their own right. In your opinion, what role do you think government policies should play in promoting urban sustainability?
Dr. Carter: Government policies are foundational. They can create incentives for sustainable practices through grants and subsidies for green technologies, enforce regulations to limit emissions, and develop public transit systems that reduce dependence on cars. The collaboration between local governments, businesses, and citizens can drive meaningful change.
Editor: That sounds like a collaborative effort is essential. Looking ahead, what advancements or trends do you predict we’ll see in urban sustainability over the next decade?
Dr. Carter: I anticipate a significant rise in the adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels on buildings. We will also see more cities implementing data-driven decision-making to enhance sustainability efforts. Resilience planning will be crucial, particularly in the face of climate change. Additionally, I think the concept of 15-minute cities—where all essential services are within a short walk or bike ride—will gain traction, as it not only promotes sustainability but improves quality of life.
Editor: The idea of 15-minute cities is indeed exciting and could redefine urban living. Lastly, what advice would you give to cities starting on their sustainability journey?
Dr. Carter: Start small and be guided by community needs. Conduct assessments to understand local issues and resources, and build partnerships with local organizations and residents. Sustainability is a marathon, not a sprint—celebrate the small wins while working toward comprehensive strategies. And remember, the journey itself can be a catalyst for community engagement and transformation.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter! This has been an enlightening conversation, and I’m sure our readers will appreciate your insights into the future of urban sustainability.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure to share my thoughts, and I hope to inspire more cities to embrace sustainability for a brighter future.