|
contents | business | |||||||||
| Danish know-how benefits tsunami victims in Japanese city  Danish companies are part of a consortium that will provide inspiration for the city of Higashi Matsushima, which was severely hit by the tsunami in 2011. Ramboll is contributing with knowledge of green reconstruction.When the tsunami struck the Japanese city of Higashi Matsushima a year ago, 65 per cent of the total urban area was flooded. Cleanup of the city is well underway, but there are still piles of waste similar to what one person would normally collect in 153 years. Now Higashi Matsushima will be rebuilt – preferably with Danish know-how. Last year the Danish Embassy in Japan launched an initiative to create a consortium with the purpose of providing support and inspiration to the city. Higashi Matsushima has been selected to be one of Japan´s 'Future Cities' based on a project proposal inspired by Danish solutions in energy, climate, and services provided for senior citizens. At the same time, the consortium provides a platform for Danish energy technology and energy-efficient buildings. The goal is to create a better and more environmentally friendly city. New energy policy "Japan is starting to phase out their nuclear power plants and rethink their energy policy. In the future it is expected that Japan will focus much more on sustainable and renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and biomass. Therefore, there will be a need for the know-how we have in Denmark, " says Christina Mose, head of department of Urban Development and Transport Planning in Ramboll. Ramboll, which is one of eight Danish companies in the consortium, contributes with knowledge about green energy solutions and planning. It is know-how in energy optimisation, biomass plants, and district heating, green technologies like wind, solar and waste management that is particularly needed. Within urban planning, Ramboll also has the capabilities to contribute with expertise in sustainable buildings. Future Cities 'Future Cities' consists of 11 Japanese cities with a total population of over 5.7 million people. The focus of the initiative is on sustainable urbanisation, re-establishment of energy-efficient buildings and the implementation of renewable energy solutions. Japan faces a huge reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts, particularly in the northeastern part of the country. Due to earthquakes, a great deal of farmland is under water. A plan for protection against future tsunamis is also being developed. Facts about the Danish consortium Besides Ramboll, the Danish consortium consists of the following companies: Grundfos, BWSC, DHI, Plan Architects, Skandinavian Living, Velux og LOKE (Lolland Energy Holding). write your comments about the article :: © 2012 Construction News :: home page |