|
||||
|
|
|||
| Home | Subscribe | Back Issues | The Organization | Volunteer | Do Something | ||||
|
||||
|
Good Ideas from different Countries
by Joel Hanson
Traffic calming in Galati, Romania
Most likely the result of improper transportation funding, the uneven cobblestone streets of Galati -sharp stones laid in an almost indecipherable pattern-are nevertheless an optimal traffic calming design. There's no way a car could drive on these roads faster than 15 mph without damaging a suspension system, bending an axle, or puncturing a tire. Laying the large stones must have been incredibly labor intensive but the rock and labor costs were undoubtedly cheaper than the materials, machines, and manpower required to produce the equivalent asphalt. Most importantly, this ingenious Romanian street design insures that the quiet city streets are also safe for pedestrians.
Free grocery delivery in Casablanca, Morocco
The proliferation of neighborhood kiosks selling virtually identical food and beverages has forced some Moroccan merchants to resort to offer additional services to maintain a consistent customer base. In the Bourgogne Quarter of Casablanca, for example, the local market will deliver any grocery item(s) to your apartment door (there is no minimum charge) at no additional cost just for being a loyal customer. While prices at the local kiosk are slightly higher than the supermarket chains, patronizing your local market builds relationships, supports the local economy, and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by eliminating unnecessary automobile trips.
Joel Hanson has in recent years taught English in Japan, China, Morocco, Syria, and Romania.
|
|
