You're balancing sustainability and project deadlines in urban planning. How do you prioritize effectively?

In an urban planning project, we faced the challenge of balancing sustainability with tight deadlines. Prioritization was key. We first focused on low-impact, high-reward sustainability initiatives, such as incorporating energy-efficient infrastructure and optimizing public transit access. By selecting sustainable materials that were readily available and aligning them with the construction schedule, we avoided delays. We also engaged stakeholders early to ensure alignment on sustainable goals. This strategic approach allowed us to meet deadlines without sacrificing our commitment to sustainability, proving that thoughtful planning can achieve both goals simultaneously.

Avoir une planification assez souple pour composer avec la réalité parfois changeante est essentiel. Il est également important d'inclure cette planification dans les échéances connues d'autres chantiers existants (à la même échelle ou a plus grande échelle) afin de pouvoir capitaliser sur ces projets et mieux coordonner certaines actions (ex : chantier réglementaire en cours, orientation de planification régionale connue etc).

A possible avenue is that of sustainable procurement, focusing on collaborative contracts, and on a 'best in class' approach that takes into account sustainability criteria, but is flexible enough where the supply is not available or deemed too risky. Try and focus on outcomes and have a bottom-up approach across your value chain where possible. Industry dialogue can also help, by allowing to pool resources and procurement, or take on locally relevalt best practices.

Il est aussi possible de rendre les parties prenantes actrices d'une partie de cette planification lorsque c'est possible. Par exemple, si un acteur a des objectifs similaires a un de ceux identifiés dans la planification il peut s'avérer être un collaborateur potentiel.

Cette hiérarchie doit également prendre en compte les leviers de financement disponibles. Il arrive que certains programmes incitatifs soient offerts sur une durée limitée.

Pour planifier tout en restant souple il est possible d'identifier plusieurs scénarios en faisant un court travail de prospective. L'objectif sera d'identifier les "worst case scenario" et les solutions a déployer pour maintenir le projet.

Adopting a flexible approach in urban planning is crucial for accommodating unforeseen changes while maintaining sustainability commitments. Develop contingency plans that include alternative sustainable materials, design modifications, and flexible deadlines that still meet core project objectives. Embrace an iterative planning process, allowing for adjustments as new challenges and opportunities arise, ensuring that sustainability remains a priority even when adapting to project realities.

Monitor progress closely by setting clear milestones that track both sustainability achievements and project deadlines. Break the project into more minor, manageable phases, regularly checking these milestones to ensure that both sustainability goals and timelines are being met. If unexpected challenges arise that threaten to derail either aspect, be flexible and ready to adapt. Consider temporary alternatives or adjustments to maintain momentum and ensure the project continues to progress effectively without compromising on critical objectives.

Il est crucial de considérer les réalités politiques locales et plus larges car les élus orientent la prise de décision en bout de ligne. Il faut éviter de travailler dans une incertitude trop élevée vis-à-vis des objectifs des décideurs desquels nous dépendons.