INTRODUCTION:

Urban design is a technical and political process focused on the development and design of land
use and the built environment. Renzo Piano (2009) views urban design as a means of creating
spaces where people can come together, interact, and enjoy the city. The major importance of
urban design lies in its ability to shape the physical and social structure of cities, influencing the
quality of life, sustainability and its economic value.

This research aims at creating an awareness of Eco City (a type of urban design) to its reader and
how it can be effectively incorporated into the city of Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria. Basically,
an eco-city is a city designed to be environmentally friendly and sustainable where people can
live in harmony with nature.

In the course of this research, we will delve into the definition of eco city and the critical details
of Eco City including its importance as an urban design. We will also explore the city of Nnewi,
laying emphasis on its history, its current status of urbanism, its challenges and why it needs to
be revitalized into an Eco city. Some case studies of eco city will be employed in order to
buttress on its importance, effectiveness and then we will discuss the Eco city design can be
incorporated into the city of Nnewi and also every challenge and advantage that would come
with incorporating the Eco city urban design into the city of Nnewi.

WHAT IS AN ECO-CITY?

An eco-city is a human settlement that is designed to be sustainable and environmentally

friendly, with a focus on minimizing waste and pollution, and maximizing efficiency and human
connectivity to nature. Architect Richard Register, who coined the term "ecocity," defines it as
"an ecologically healthy city, region, or planet that operates on sunlight (through renewable
energy) and recycled biodegradable resources in such a way that it doesn't need to draw down on
nonrenewable resources, produce waste, or emit greenhouse gases" (Register, 2006).

BRIEF HISTORY OF ECO-CITY

The history of eco-cities is marked by key milestones, including the formation of Urban Ecology
in 1975, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting environmentally healthier cities; the
coining of the term "ecocity" by Richard Register in 1987, who published "Ecocity Berkeley:
Building Cities for a Healthy Future"; the first International Ecocity Conference in 1990, which
brought together over 800 participants from 13 countries to discuss urban sustainability; the
founding of Ecocity Builders in 1992, an organization established by Richard Register to
advance eco-city goals; the promotion of sustainable development by the Brundtland Report and
UN Earth Summit in the 1990s, which highlighted the need for environmentally responsible
urban planning; and China's support for eco-city development as a national policy in the 2000s,
which has led to the development of numerous eco-cities across the country.
FEATURES OF AN ECO-CITY

An eco-city is designed to minimize its impact on the environment and maximize efficiency,
livability, and social equity. Some major features of an eco-city include:

1. Renewable Energy: Eco-cities rely on renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro
power to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

2. Green Spaces: Eco-cities prioritize green spaces, parks, and gardens to maintain biodiversity,
absorb carbon dioxide, and mitigate urban heat islands.

3. Sustainable Transportation: Eco-cities promote walking, cycling, and public transportation,

and often feature electric or hybrid vehicles.

4. Water Management: Eco-cities implement efficient water management systems, including

rainwater harvesting, greywater reuse, and efficient irrigation systems.

5. Waste Reduction and Recycling: Eco-cities aim to minimize waste, promote recycling, and
implement efficient waste management systems.

6. Energy-Efficient Buildings: Eco-cities feature buildings designed with energy-efficient

materials, insulation, and systems to reduce energy consumption.

7. Mixed-Use Development: Eco-cities often incorporate mixed-use development, combining

residential, commercial, and recreational spaces to reduce transportation needs.

8. Innovative Urban Planning: Eco-cities apply innovative urban planning strategies, such as
compact and connected urban design, to reduce sprawl and promote walkability.

9. Adaptive Reuse and Urban Renewal: Eco-cities often incorporate adaptive reuse of existing
structures and urban renewal initiatives to reduce waste and preserve history.

10. Green Infrastructure: Eco-cities invest in green infrastructure, such as green roofs, green
walls, and urban forests, to mitigate urban environmental challenges.

11. Resilient and Adaptive Design: Eco-cities are designed to be resilient and adaptable to
climate change, natural disasters, and social and economic changes.

These features are not exhaustive, and eco-cities continuously evolve and innovate to address
emerging environmental and social challenges.
CHALLENGES OF ECO-CITY

While eco-cities offer numerous benefits, they also face challenges and disadvantages, including:

1. High Initial Investment: Developing an eco-city requires significant upfront costs for
sustainable infrastructure and technologies.

2. Limited Funding: Securing funding for eco-city projects can be challenging, especially for
developing countries or communities with limited resources.

3. Technological Limitations: Implementing cutting-edge sustainable technologies can be

complex and may not always be effective.

4. Public Acceptance: Gaining public support and acceptance of new sustainable practices and
technologies can be difficult.

5. Infrastructure Challenges: Upgrading existing infrastructure to support eco-city initiatives

can be costly and logistically complex.

6. Land Use Conflicts: Eco-city development may conflict with existing land uses, such as
agricultural or conservation areas.

7. Displacement of Communities: Eco-city projects may displace existing communities or

disrupt traditional ways of life.

8. Unintended Consequences: Eco-city initiatives may have unforeseen environmental or social

impacts, such as gentrification or increased resource consumption.

9. Scalability and Replicability: Eco-city models may not be easily scalable or replicable in
other contexts due to unique local conditions.

10. Governance and Policy Challenges: Implementing and enforcing policies and regulations
supporting eco-city development can be difficult.

11. Public Education and Awareness: Raising public awareness and understanding of eco-city
principles and practices can be an ongoing challenge.

12. Balancing Economic, Social, and Environmental Goals: Eco-cities must navigate the
complexities of balancing competing priorities and interests.

These challenges highlight the need for careful planning, collaboration, and adaptive
management in eco-city development to ensure successful and sustainable outcomes.
CASE STUDIES

A. Taipei Taiwan, Republic of China:

Taipei is the seat of the government of the Republic of China (ROC; Nationalist China) and is
located in the north of Taiwan. The city's history dates back to the 18th century, when it was a
small trading port. The city's population is estimated to be around 2.7 million people, and the
metropolitan area is home to around 7 million people. Taipei is known for its vibrant culture, rich
history, and modern infrastructure, and is a popular tourist destination. The city is home to many
famous landmarks, including the Taipei 101 skyscraper, the National Palace Museum, and the
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. Taipei is also known for its night markets, street food, and
traditional temples. According to Chang (Chang 2017) Taipei is an intriguing mix of old and
new, with a vibrant cultural scene, booming economy, and friendly people. The city is rapidly
modernizing, yet it retains a strong sense of tradition and history. Taipei, Taiwan is considered a
good example of an eco-city. Taipei has made significant efforts to reduce its environmental
impact and become a more sustainable city. Some of its eco-friendly initiatives and features
include:

1. Mass transit system: Taipei has a comprehensive and efficient public transportation network,
including a metro system, buses, and bike-sharing programs, which reduce reliance on private
cars and decrease air pollution thereby creating an eco-friendlier environment.

2. Green spaces: Taipei has numerous parks, gardens, and green roofs, covering over 20% of the
city's area, providing habitats for wildlife and helping to absorb carbon dioxide and this directly
improves the air quality of the environment.

3. Renewable energy: Taiwan is aiming to generate 20% of its energy from renewable energy
sources by 2025, up from 5% in 2020. Taiwan's green energy market has become increasingly
developed, with the highest volume of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) signed in Asia.
Taiwan's renewable energy generation relies on solar, onshore and offshore wind power, with
solar capacity being the majority.

4. Waste reduction and recycling: Taipei has implemented efficient waste management
systems, with a recycling rate of over 60%. Taiwan’s waste management and recycling methods
include the following:

 Taiwan's "4-in-1 recycling program" includes the government, manufacturers, consumers

and licensed recycling enterprises. Taiwan’s 4-in-1 recycling program, initiated in 1997,
is part of the country's extended producer responsibility (EPR) scheme. The fees charged
by this program are paid by manufacturers and importers to the government, which uses
this money to fund recycling programs such as educational campaigns and the
development of new recycling programs.
  Manufacturers and importers must pay a recycling fee to the Environmental Protection
Administration Taiwan (EPAT) and offer collection of waste for recycling from
consumers.

 Taiwan has implemented waste management and recycling education in schools since the
1980s.

5. Green buildings: Taipei encourages the development of green buildings, with many
structures featuring energy-efficient designs, solar panels, and green roofs.

6. Electric vehicle incentives: Taipei offers incentives for electric vehicle adoption, such as tax
breaks and parking benefits so as to encourage the usage of these vehicles as they aid an eco-
friendlier environment.

7. Sustainable water management: Taipei has implemented rainwater harvesting systems and
efficient water management practices to reduce water waste. Taiwan uses two types of rainwater
harvesting systems, one that collects rainwater only and one that collects both rainwater and grey
water. Rainwater harvesting systems in Taiwan are used to collect rainwater to supplement the
water supply, as Taiwan is ranked the 18th most water-scarce country in the world. The
Taiwanese government requires that all new buildings with a total floor area greater than 10,000
m2 must install domestic rainwater harvesting equipment to supply at least 5% of the total water
required by the building.

8. Urban planning: Taipei's urban planning prioritizes mixed-use development, walkability,

reducing the need for lengthy commutes and promoting a more compact, efficient city.

While Taipei still faces environmental challenges, its efforts to become a more sustainable and
eco-friendlier city make it a good example of an eco-city.
 B. Masdar City, United Arab Emirates:

Masdar City is designed to welcome pedestrians and cyclists. The temperature in the streets
generally feels 5-10 C cooler than the surrounding desert. The difference is due to urban design.
The city's core, called the podium, is raised above the surrounding area and oriented to pull wind
through the streets. Buildings are clustered close together to create streets and walkways that are
shielded from the sun. Additionally, a 45-metre-high (148 ft) wind tower modelled on traditional
Arab designs sucks air from above and creates a cooling breeze. Masdar City is home to the
widely pictured Eco-Residences, which have terracotta walls decorated with arabesque patterns
and are rated LEED Platinum. Masdar City also contains a tech park made from recycled
standard 40-foot unit shipping containers Nader, Sam (1 February 2009). Masdar City was
designed by Foster and Partners. Foster's design team started its work by touring ancient cities
such as Cairo and Muscat to see how they kept cool. Foster found that these cities coped with hot
desert temperatures through shorter, narrower streets, usually no longer than 70 meters (230 ft).
The buildings at the end of these streets create just enough wind turbulence to push air upwards,
creating a flushing effect that cools the street. The original master plan envisioned a city
functioning on its own grid with full carbon neutrality, Sa Vodnik Peter (8 December 2011).
Masdar City is partially powered by solar panels, but also draws power from the local grid.
Gerard Evenden, the lead architect, says that the original plan for Masdar called for powering the
entire city through on-site methods such as rooftop solar panels. He said;

"When we started this project, nobody had really looked at doing projects of this scale. Then you
realize it's much more efficient to build your solar field on the ground in the middle of the desert.
You can send a man to brush them off every day, rather than having to access everyone's
buildings individually, and you can make sure that they are running at their absolute peak. It's
much better than putting them on every building in the city."

Blowing sand has been a problem for its solar panels, so Masdar City has worked with other
organizations to engineer surfaces with pores smaller than sand particles to stop them from
sticking on the panels. Low-flow water fixtures are used throughout the city to reduce water use,
and wastewater is reused "as many times as possible," with greywater being used for crop
irrigation and other purposes.
 C. Curitiba, Brazil:

Curitiba is the capital of Parana State, and is 1,000 km from Rio de Janeiro. It has transformed
from an agricultural city to a manufacturing one through sustainable planning. In 2010, Curitiba
won the Global Sustainable City Award. It has a population of almost 2 million people. Curitiba,
Brazil, is a pioneering example of an eco-city, known for its innovative urban planning and
sustainable development. Here are some key features that make Curitiba an eco-city:

1. Green spaces: Curitiba has over 28 parks and wooded areas, covering around 14% of the
city's area, providing a high quality of life for its inhabitants.

2. Public transportation: Curitiba's public transportation system is efficient and comprehensive,

with dedicated bus lanes and an integrated network of buses and trains, reducing reliance on
private cars.

3. Waste management: Curitiba has a well-organized waste disposal system, with a focus on
recycling and composting, achieving a high recycling rate of over 70%.

4. Urban planning: Curitiba's urban design prioritizes people over cars, with pedestrian-friendly
streets, bike lanes, and mixed-use development, promoting a compact and connected city.

5. Energy efficiency: Curitiba has implemented energy-efficient measures, such as using LED
lighting and renewable energy sources, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas
emissions.

6. Water management: Curitiba has implemented innovative water management systems,

including rainwater harvesting and efficient water use, reducing water waste and conserving this
precious resource.

7. Green buildings: Curitiba encourages green building practices, with many buildings featuring
sustainable design, energy-efficient systems, and renewable energy sources.
8. Community engagement: Curitiba has a strong focus on community engagement and
participation, with citizens involved in urban planning and decision-making processes, ensuring
a people-centered approach to sustainable development.

Curitiba's eco-city model has inspired many other cities worldwide, showcasing the potential for
sustainable urban development and serving as a model for environmentally conscious city
planning.

BRIEF HISTORY OF NNEWI

Nnewi is a commercial and industrial city in Anambra State, southeastern Nigeria.[5] It is the
second largest city in Anambra state after Onitsha .[5] Nnewi as a metropolitan area has two
local government area, which are Nnewi North and Nnewi South, all centred around the Nnewi
town. Even Ekwusigo local government area is now part of Nnewi urban area, as urbanization
continues to spread from Nnewi to neighbouring communities .[5] The Nnewi town which is the
only town in Nnewi North comprises four villages: Otolo, Uruagu, Umudim, and Nnewichi.
Nnewi had been the centre of economics and commerce, being at a time the fastest growing
industrial city east of the Niger, being the home of many industries such as The Ibeto Group, the
Chicason Group, Cutix Cables, amongst others. The first indigenous car manufacturing plant in
Nigeria is located in the city[6] while the first wholly Made-in-Nigeria motorcycle, the 'NASENI
M1' was manufactured in Nnewi.[7]

As of 2006, Nnewi has an estimated population of 391,227 according to the Nigerian census.[8]
The 2019 population estimate shows that Nnewi has a population of over 900,000 people.[6] The
city spans over 200 square miles (520 km2) in Anambra State.[9] Nnewi Metropolitan Area and
its satellite towns is home to nearly 2.5 million residents As of 2005.[5] Dimensionally, Nnewi
has an edge over all other units, it was recognized by the 1953 census figures as the largest
inland town of all others in the Eastern states of Nigeria.[10]

Projected to be the twelfth fastest growing city on the African continent between 2020 and 2025,
with a 5.18% growth.[11]
Challenges of nnewi

Nnewi town, a commercial hub in Anambra State, Nigeria, has a unique urban planning history.
Initially, the town developed organically, with narrow streets and closely-packed buildings,
reflecting its traditional Igbo settlement pattern. However, with rapid growth and urbanization,
the town's planning has evolved. Here are some key aspects of Nnewi's urban planning:

1. Mix of traditional and modern architecture: Nnewi's urban landscape features a blend of
traditional Igbo buildings, colonial-era structures, and modern buildings, showcasing its cultural
and historical heritage.

2. Dense commercial districts: The town is known for its bustling markets and commercial areas,
such as the Nnewi Main Market and the Eke Amaobi Market, which attract traders and
customers from across the region.

3. Limited road network: Nnewi's road network is largely inadequate, leading to congestion and
traffic challenges, particularly during peak trading hours.

4. Informal settlements: Rapid urbanization has resulted in the growth of informal settlements,
characterized by makeshift buildings and limited access to basic amenities like water, sanitation,
and electricity.

5. Efforts towards modernization: In recent years, the Anambra State government has initiated
urban renewal projects, including road expansions, drainage improvements, and public building
constructions, aimed at enhancing the town's infrastructure and aesthetic appeal.

6. Challenges: Nnewi's urban planning faces challenges such as inadequate waste management,
flooding, and environmental degradation, which need to be addressed through sustainable urban
planning strategies.

Despite these challenges, Nnewi remains a vibrant commercial center, and its urban planning
continues to evolve to meet the needs of its growing population and economic activities

Here are some challenges Nnewi might face in relation to becoming an eco-city:

1. Limited financial resources: Nnewi may lack the funding needed to implement eco-friendly
infrastructure and technologies.

2. Rapid urbanization: Nnewi's rapid growth could lead to uncontrolled development, making it
harder to implement sustainable practices.

3. Inadequate waste management: Nnewi may struggle with effective waste collection, disposal,
and recycling, leading to environmental pollution.
4. Limited public awareness: Citizens may not be educated about the importance of eco-friendly
practices, making it harder to implement change.

5. Inadequate public transportation: Nnewi's transportation infrastructure may be inadequate,

leading to reliance on personal vehicles and increased pollution.

6. Limited access to renewable energy sources: Nnewi may face challenges in accessing and
implementing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.

7. Inadequate green spaces: Nnewi may lack sufficient green spaces, parks, and gardens,
reducing air quality and citizen well-being.

8. Limited water management: Nnewi may face challenges in managing water resources
effectively, leading to waste and pollution.

9. Inadequate building codes: Nnewi's building codes may not prioritize eco-friendly design and
materials, hindering sustainable development.

10. Limited government support: Nnewi's government may not prioritize eco-city initiatives,
limiting progress and funding.

11. High population density: Nnewi's dense population could put pressure on resources, making
sustainable development more challenging.

12. Limited private sector involvement: Nnewi may struggle to attract private sector investment
in eco-friendly initiatives.

13. Limited technical expertise: Nnewi may lack the necessary technical knowledge and skills to
implement eco-city initiatives effectively.

14. Limited community engagement: Nnewi's citizens may not be actively engaged in eco-city
initiatives, reducing their impact.

15. Limited access to funding opportunities: Nnewi may face challenges in accessing funding
opportunities for eco-city initiatives.

By acknowledging and addressing these challenges, Nnewi can better overcome obstacles and
become a more sustainable and eco-friendly city.

NEEDS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF NNEWI TOWN

Here are four properties of Masdar City that could be incorporated into Nnewi, taking into
account the city's economic status:

1. Energy-Efficient Buildings: Masdar City features buildings designed to maximize natural light
and ventilation, reducing energy consumption. Nnewi can adopt similar designs and materials,
using local and affordable options like natural ventilation, insulation, and shading devices to
reduce energy needs.

2. Water Conservation: Masdar City implements water-saving measures like low-flow fixtures
and greywater reuse. Nnewi can introduce similar solutions, such as:

- Fixing leaky pipes and improving water distribution infrastructure

- Promoting water-efficient appliances and fixtures

- Encouraging rainwater harvesting for non-potable uses

3. Waste Management: Masdar City has a comprehensive recycling program and minimizes
waste sent to landfills. Nnewi can:

- Implement a door-to-door waste collection system

- Establish recycling centers and composting facilities

- Encourage reduction, reuse, and recycling practices

4. Green Spaces: Masdar City incorporates green spaces and urban agriculture. Nnewi can:

- Create community gardens and urban farms using vacant plots and rooftops

- Develop parks and green spaces, even small ones, to improve air quality and mitigate urban
heat islands

- Encourage green roofs and walls using local plants and materials

These properties focus on cost-effective, incremental changes that can make a significant impact,
considering Nnewi's economic status. They prioritize energy efficiency, water conservation,
waste management, and green spaces, which are essential for creating a sustainable and eco-
friendly city.

Here are four properties of Taipei, Taiwan, as an eco-city that could be incorporated into Nnewi,
considering the city's economic status:

1. Efficient Public Transportation: Taipei has a well-developed public transportation system,

including buses and metro lines. Nnewi can learn from Taipei's example by:

- Improving the existing bus system

- Introducing a bike-sharing program

- Enhancing pedestrian infrastructure

2. Urban Renewal and Revitalization: Taipei has successfully revitalized old industrial areas and
turned them into vibrant cultural and economic hubs. Nnewi can apply this approach by:

- Repurposing abandoned buildings for new uses

- Creating community centers and public spaces

- Encouraging local entrepreneurship and innovation

3. Green Infrastructure: Taipei has incorporated green spaces and green roofs into its urban
planning. Nnewi can adopt similar strategies by:

- Creating pocket parks and community gardens

- Implementing green roofs on public buildings

- Planting trees and greenery along streets and highways

4. Waste Reduction and Recycling: Taipei has implemented effective waste reduction and
recycling programs. Nnewi can learn from Taipei's example by:

- Implementing a "reduce, reuse, recycle" education campaign

- Introducing a door-to-door waste collection system

- Establishing recycling centers and composting facilities

These properties focus on efficient transportation, urban renewal, green infrastructure, and waste
reduction, which are essential for creating a sustainable and eco-friendly city. They are tailored
to Nnewi's economic status and build on the city's existing strengths and resources.

Here are four properties of Curitiba, Brazil, as an eco-city that could be incorporated into Nnewi,
considering the city's economic status:

1. Innovative Urban Planning: Curitiba's master plan prioritizes green spaces, public
transportation, and mixed-use development. Nnewi can adopt similar strategies by:

- Creating a comprehensive urban plan that integrates green spaces and public transportation

- Encouraging mixed-use development to reduce transportation needs

 - Designating areas for urban agriculture and community gardens

2. Efficient Water Management: Curitiba's water management system reduces waste and
conserves water. Nnewi can learn from Curitiba's example by:

- Implementing rainwater harvesting systems

- Fixing leaky pipes and improving water distribution infrastructure

- Promoting water-efficient appliances and fixtures

3. Public Transportation Oriented Development (TOD): Curitiba's TOD approach prioritizes

public transportation and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Nnewi can adopt similar strategies
by:

- Developing public transportation hubs with mixed-use development

- Creating pedestrian-friendly streets and bike lanes

- Encouraging denser development around public transportation nodes

4. Community Engagement and Education: Curitiba's eco-city initiatives involve strong

community engagement and education programs. Nnewi can learn from Curitiba's example by:

- Launching public awareness campaigns on eco-friendly practices

- Implementing environmental education programs in schools

- Encouraging community participation in urban planning and eco-city initiatives

These properties focus on innovative urban planning, efficient water management, public
transportation-oriented development, and community engagement and education, which are
essential for creating a sustainable and eco-friendly city. They are tailored to Nnewi's economic
status and build on the city's existing strengths and resources.

Here are 20 opportunities that could arise when Nnewi incorporates the eco-city features we
discussed:
1. Green job creation in renewable energy, sustainable transportation, and waste management

2. Increased investment in eco-tourism and sustainable infrastructure

3. Development of innovative green technologies and startups

4. Improved air and water quality, enhancing public health

5. Enhanced quality of life and well-being for citizens

6. Increased property values and attractiveness to businesses and investors

7. Creation of community gardens and urban farms

8. Establishment of eco-friendly industries, such as recycling and composting

9. Development of sustainable transportation options, like electric vehicle charging stations

10. Increased use of public transportation, reducing congestion and pollution

11. Growth of local businesses and entrepreneurship in sustainable sectors

12. Enhanced education and research opportunities in sustainability and environmental science

13. Increased community engagement and participation in urban planning

14. Preservation of natural habitats and biodiversity

15. Creation of green spaces and parks for recreation and relaxation

16. Development of sustainable water management systems

17. Reduction in waste and pollution, improving environmental health

18. Increased use of renewable energy sources, like solar and wind power

19. Improved energy efficiency and reduced energy consumption

20. Nnewi becoming a model for sustainable development in Nigeria and Africa

These opportunities highlight the potential positive impacts on the environment, economy, and
citizens' quality of life when Nnewi incorporates eco-city features.

CITATION
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Official Nnewi City Portal". www.nnewi.info. Retrieved 2015-09-19.

N. Oriji, John (2009-12-08). "Transformations in Igbo Cosmology during Slavery: A Study of

the Geneses of Place-Names, Totems & Taboos". Cahiers d'études africaines (in French) (196):
953–968. doi:10.4000/etudesafricaines.15717. ISSN 0008-0055.

Falola, Toyin; Genova, Ann (2009). Historical dictionary of Nigeria. Lanham, Md.: Scarecrow
Press. ISBN 978-0-8108-5615-8. OCLC 310171807.

Obichere, B.I. (1982). Studies in Southern Nigerian History: A Festschrift for Joseph Christopher
Okwudili Anene 1918-68. Taylor & Francis. p. 155. ISBN 9780203988060. Retrieved 2015-06-
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