Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA), QLD Chapter President, Urbis Director of Design, and Landscape Architect Glen Power has called for professionals in the design industry to take proactive steps in contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for the state.
AILA is a contributor to the Queensland Walking Alliance which is facilitated by Queensland Walks. We support Glen’s recommendations and we’re collectively drafting the Cool Paths and Places for Walking Call to Action on behalf of the Queensland Walking Alliance.
“Many of the streets that would likely make up the green grid already have street trees, but we need to work as a collective to ensure we can install additional street trees into the existing urban fabric to create something truly memorable.
– Glen Power
Fun fact #1: Shading is needed on footpaths to encourage walking
82% of Queensland walkers told Queensland Walks that their footpath is not shaded or cool in the street that they walk. Source: Walk My Street check, Queensland Walks
Fun fact #2: Shading cools footpaths
Footpath temperatures at a Brisbane school gate recorded on 29th of January 2025 was well above 50 degrees celsius without trees or shade. Source: Citizen Science Data, Queensland Walks
“An ‘Urban Olympic Forest’ would mitigate the impacts of Urban Heat Island Effects, increase biodiversity, create greater opportunities for streetscape activation, and assist in protecting our enviable way of life that we are all so blessed to have.”
– Glen Power
In his article ‘Planting Seeds for Queensland’s Green Future: A Call to Action for Design,’ Power emphasises the critical role of design in shaping a sustainable future for Queensland. He advocates for innovative approaches that integrate environmental considerations into urban planning and architecture.
Power also highlights the importance of collaboration among designers, policymakers, and communities to create spaces that are not only functional but also environmentally friendly.
Read Glen Power’s article
“Many of whom that were lucky enough to attend the Paris Games noted that it was not the venues that left the greatest impression, but the streets that connected them.”
– Glen Power
