THE Mandaue City Council agreed to help the Movement for a Livable Cebu (MLC) push for the “Green Loop” concept to address problems of urbanization.
The council expressed its support during its regular session last Wednesday.
University of San Carlos (USC) College of Architecture Dean Joseph Michael “Yumi” Espina presented the Green Loop concept.
Designed by their students and staff and spearheaded by Espina, the Green Loop project aims to improve traffic flow and preserve the environment by encouraging people to use mass transport or bicycles instead of private vehicles.
“Climate change is real and is the new normal,” said Espina. He said everyone must find ways to improve the environment.
Espina also cited globalization as another factor that spurs the need for Green Loop. More than half of the population of the country is living in cities, he said, so road congestion has become more prevalent, increasing pollution and reducing space.
“We are losing our identity as a compact, livable city,” he added.
“There is a loss of community spirit,” he also said.
With that, cities like Cebu and Mandaue need “real public spaces” like parks.
Espina suggested dispersing growth centers and provide for a “green belt.”
The Mandaue City Council did not object to the proposal to include Mandaue in the Green Loop.
The legislative department also assured to help the MLC.