CURITIBA

Again recently Curitiba city was called "The Greenest city on Earth", this time by the world renowned magazine The Ecologist.

 

 

As we are enter times of greater ecological uncertaintity, cities are trying to be more sustainable. For many years Curitiba has been seen as a great model to learn from. “The city is not the problem, it is the solution” were the words of architect and ex mayor of Curitiba, Jaime Lerner. Under his leadership, since the early 1970's, his city has been doing things the right way. This full day tour explores the evolution of this fascinating city, how it came about, how it has stood the test of time, what challenges it faces today and what inovative solutions it is attempting now.

 

The tour starts in the heart of the old city centre where we will briefly explore some pedestrian streets and view some examples of the cities very vibrant artistic and cultural life. We will then explore a series of green spaces in the city, of varying scales, each with their own unique set of criteria, levels of connection with nature and individual mystique and charm. We will also use what many call “the worlds best bus system”, with the giant red buses and their metro like tubes, to get around.

 

There are ongoing debates as to what constitutes an “eco city” and with that who deserves to be crowned the most eco of them all. But all agree that Curitiba is certainly one of the world leaders. This tour attempts to generate a discussion about what factors matter for the creation of more sustainabile cities for our planet: ecological sustainability, mobility, waste disposal, water, density, connectivity, social inclusion, personal security, wellbeing and happiness, education, connection with nature...