At the invitation of local Tianjin government in China, Michael C. Mitchell, Founder & CEO of MCM Group International, delivers keynote presentation
China’s green construction industry, with a market value estimated at 1.5 trillion Yuan ($208 billion), is growing through commitments to energy-efficient projects such as the one currently taking place in Tianjin. An international harbor and economic center in northern China, ‘Jin’ as it is known locally, has been selected by Singapore and China as the location for China’s first Eco-city.
In his keynote address to over 100 local government representatives and businessmen from adjacent developing areas, Michael Mitchell, founder and CEO of MCM Group International applauded the “eco-city” concept as a crucial step in China’s commitment to tackling the problems of global warming. He advised the region’s leaders on the various components of sustainable design by presenting an array of projects the MCM Group International has undertaken throughout the world.
“The rate of growth in China is breathtaking, and therefore the challenge to improve what is being built to ensure sustainability is crucial,” said Mitchell. “The eco-city will become an icon for urban development around the world. With ‘urbanization’ continuing at such a rapid pace in China, it’s no surprise that some of the most exciting eco-city projects are taking place here.”
The biggest and most high profile project is Tianjin, which is set to become home to 350,000 people, as well as become a test-bed for sustainable technologies. Buildings will be at least 65% more energy efficient than current Chinese standards require; all but 10% of journeys will be by foot, bicycle or public transport; and 20% of energy will come from renewable sources.
But turning this vision into reality requires experience of urban planning that fits with political goals. That’s where Mitchell’s vast sustainable and developmental expertise comes in. Extensively involved in environmental planning and green planning since the early 1970s, Mitchell has written at length on destination planning, economic real estate modeling and lifestyle developments. The knowledge Mitchell proffered to the group will prove vital in helping this and other Chinese cities and regions respond to urbanization in a sustainable way.