Jeff Speck: The walkable city

The video discusses the negative impacts of suburban sprawl in America, highlighting economic, health, and environmental issues. It advocates for walkable cities, using Portland as a successful example. The speaker argues that urban design can improve economic resilience, reduce health crises like obesity and asthma, and lower environmental impact. The conclusion emphasizes that walkable cities enhance quality of life and sustainability.

What is the main issue with suburban sprawl according to the speaker?

• It increases the need for public transportation.

• It leads to a dependency on automobiles.

• It promotes urban development.

• It reduces housing costs.

How did Portland, Oregon, address urban sprawl?

• By removing bike lanes.

• By expanding highways.

• By instituting an urban growth boundary.

• By increasing parking spaces.

What economic benefit did Portland experience by reducing car dependency?

• Increased local business revenue.

• Higher transportation costs.

• Reduced public transportation usage.

• Decreased home investments.

What is a significant health issue linked to urban design?

• Lower birth rates.

• Increased mental health problems.

• Increased allergies.

• Higher rates of obesity.

What term is used to describe neighborhoods that promote obesity?

• Obesogenic

• Urbanized

• Eco-friendly

• Car-centric

What shift in perspective did environmentalists make regarding cities?

• They focused on increasing urban pollution.

• They recognized cities as more sustainable.

• They began to support suburban development.

• They advocated for more rural living.

How do denser cities like Manhattan perform environmentally?

• They have higher electricity usage than suburbs.

• They are less efficient than Canadian cities.

• They have a lower carbon footprint per household.

• They consume more gasoline than rural areas.

What is the relationship between sustainability and quality of life according to the speaker?

• They are unrelated.

• Sustainability decreases quality of life.

• Sustainability enhances quality of life.

• Quality of life is independent of urban design.

Which city ranks highest in quality of life among American cities according to the Mercer Survey?

• Honolulu

• Chicago

• Los Angeles

• New York City

What is the speaker's final suggestion for improving sustainability?

• Investing in more gadgets.

• Building more highways.

• Living in walkable neighborhoods.

• Increasing suburban development.