Sustainability in Toronto
According to the sustainable cities index, this examined fifty leading cities all over the globe, the capital of Toronto came out the first in North America and ninth globally in terms of green sustainability (Ontario, 2020). In 2014, Toronto was the first jurisdiction to eliminate coal-burning as a source of energy. There are various digital initiatives to foster sustainability in Toronto. However, one is the plan by Sidewalk Labs Company to build the “digital city,” which will have up to date innovations. But most importantly, it will be eco-friendly. In that, it will eliminate greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and foster renewable energy systems, sanitation, and appropriate waste management systems. Green sustainability will have various economic impacts on the local economy of Toronto in multiple ways. To be more precise, it will generate savings for residents my minimizing the overall cost of sanitation, waste management, and other resources. In the long run, the local savings will support local investments, thus fostering Toronto’s economy. Secondly, green sustainability means that the locals will live a healthier lifestyle through the reduction of water, air pollution, and sufficient waste management. As a result, there will be minimal healthcare costs and more employee productivity, thus economic development. Lastly, sustainability will ensure well-structured housing plans, more convenient infrastructure, and transportation systems (Mendoza-Fong et al. 2019). As a result, this will attract investments, which will develop employment opportunities and economic activities. What is more, a well-established infrastructure is vital for retaining and facilitating business competitiveness for start-ups and medium-sized enterprises. In the long run, employment is increased, industries develop, and so does the economy. These strategies will improve the local business bottom line and foster an environment that will enable more economic activities into the more revitalized region. Apart from the high environmental performance, the city of Toronto is aimed at improving and becoming a model for green sustainability in the future.