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Industrial EcoDistricts: Primer
CNT
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This paper presents CNT’s recent research on a range of innovations for Industrial EcoDistricts in the areas of energy, water, transportation, and waste. Our work looks at district-scale interventions through the lenses of: What is it?, Why do it?, and What does it cost? with practical, real world examples and financing strategies to help implementers and decisionmakers create next-generation industrial districts in their communities. 

This paper examines: 

  • Energy: Renewables, Storage, District Energy, Microgrids, Energy Efficiency, and Demand Management 
  • Water: Water Efficiency, Demand Reduction, and Water Reuse
  • Transportation: Urban, Transit-Served Locations, Goods Transportation, and Logistics
  • Waste Systems 

We also discuss the several essential implementation factors, including site selection, governance, engagement, financing, policy, and documenting benefits. 

While all of the strategies and technologies we have looked at are being tried in one form or another, for the most part they have yet to be brought to scale. As we begin to reimagine what infrastructure means in our communities, Industrial EcoDistricts present a way to create jobs while saving energy and water, addressing climate change, and creating an economic benefit for businesses and communities.

Listen in to the July 2017 Industrial EcoDistricts webinar as CNT's Jen McGraw and Scott Bernstein presented on research on a range of innovations for Industrial EcoDistricts in the areas of energy, water, and transportation. CNT looks at district-scale interventions and asks What is it?, Why do it?, and What does it cost? with practical, real-world examples and financing strategies to help implementers and decision-makers create next generation industrial districts in their communities.  

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