Principal Mami Hara was one of a select group of sustainability professionals convened by the American Architectural Foundation (AAF) in Washington, DC on December 10. As part of the AAF's Sustainable Cities Design Academy 2010 Forum, Mami was among 25 internationally-recognized sustainable design thought leaders who were brought together to discuss the challenges of building large urban infill developments. This day-long forum discussed green building techniques, municipal policies and plans, and public education and communication tactics for current challenges to the revitalization of existing urban centers.
Mami presented some of WRT's work on the topics of water and green infrastructure as well as her current work with the Philadelphia Office of Watersheds. Other participants, who represent diverse development-related disciplines and perspectives, presented examples of carbon neutral and carbon positive developments and district energy systems at the local and regional levels. Participants discussed successful eco-city models and the political realities of completing these complex projects.
