15-Minute Cities Factchecked

Nexus

In the wake of COVID, local governments are looking for ways to construct cities to center around individuals rather than cars. 15-Minute Cities are a concept designed by urban planner Carlos Moreno to have cities include all necessary amenities within a 15-minute walk or cycle, so people do not need to rely on cars. This approach aims to reduce car dependency, emissions, meet climate goals and promote healthy and sustainable living and quality of life. However, some right-wing politicians and conspiracy theorists have condemned the idea as an example of authoritarian control, a form of climate lockdown and a "socialist concept" that will impose severe traffic restrictions confining people to their neighbourhoods and curtailing their personal freedoms. Join our guests Brent Toderian, formerly Vancouver’s former chief planner, Niamh Moore - Cherry, a Professor of Urban Governance and Development, James Woudhuysen, Spiked Columnist and veteran environmental campaigner Arthur Pendragon as they explore the conspiracy theories surrounding 15-Minute Cities.