As someone deeply interested in sustainability and urban development, I was filled with anticipation ahead of my visit to Russia. Moscow and St. Petersburg, two of the world’s most stunning cities, have long fascinated me – not only for their historical and architectural grandeur but also for their evolving commitment to sustainable urbanisation.

I was eager to explore how Russia integrates the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its urban planning, particularly in beautifying and illuminating its cities while ensuring sustainability.

My journey was not just about witnessing these cities' visual splendour but also about understanding how the Russian government balances aesthetics with environmental responsibility.

From energy-efficient lighting to smart urban planning, Moscow and St. Petersburg have taken notable steps toward sustainability. This article delves into the measures adopted by these cities, with a particular focus on SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Energy-efficient illumination and smart lighting

Moscow, the vibrant heart of Russia, exudes energy at all hours. Its iconic landmarks – such as the Kremlin, Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral – are illuminated in ways that enhance their breathtaking architecture. However, beyond aesthetics, Moscow’s lighting systems are being revolutionised to be more sustainable.

The Moscow government has implemented widespread LED lighting across the city. Replacing traditional sodium-vapour lamps with LEDs has significantly reduced energy consumption, aligning with SDG 7’s emphasis on clean energy.

Additionally, the city has embraced smart lighting systems that adjust brightness based on pedestrian and vehicular movement, conserving energy while reducing light pollution.

What impressed me most was the integration of AI and smart grids in managing Moscow’s streetlights. These systems enable real-time monitoring, ensuring optimal energy use and efficiency.

The city’s commitment to intelligent urban planning has set a precedent for other global metropolises aiming to balance beauty with sustainability.

Green spaces and sustainable urban planning

Another aspect of Moscow’s sustainable development that caught my attention was its emphasis on green spaces. Despite being a bustling capital, the city has invested heavily in urban greenery.

Gorky Park, Zaryadye Park, and VDNH are prime examples of how Moscow seamlessly integrates nature into its urban fabric.

Zaryadye Park particularly stood out. Built on the former site of the massive Hotel Rossiya, the park features various climate zones that reflect Russia’s diverse ecosystems.

Its energy-efficient infrastructure, underground concert hall, and eco-friendly design help minimise the urban heat island effect while enhancing biodiversity. Walking through the park, I was struck by how sustainability and modernity could harmoniously co-exist in such a dynamic city.

Architectural illumination with a green touch

St. Petersburg, Russia’s cultural capital, captivated me with its blend of baroque and neoclassical architecture. The city’s nighttime illumination adds to its enchanting ambiance, showcasing landmarks like the Winter Palace, Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood, and Peter and Paul Fortress in spectacular fashion.

However, maintaining this grandeur while incorporating sustainability measures is no small feat.

The city has taken considerable steps to retrofit its historical buildings with energy-efficient lighting. LED floodlights now illuminate many heritage structures, ensuring they remain visually striking without excessive energy consumption.

Additionally, St. Petersburg has upgraded its street lighting to LED technology, reducing energy waste and aligning with global sustainability efforts.

Water management and eco-friendly transportation

St. Petersburg’s geographical location, surrounded by rivers and canals, makes water management a critical sustainability challenge. To align with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), the city has introduced advanced water filtration systems for the Neva River, ensuring cleaner water for both residents and tourists.

Eco-friendly transportation is another area where St. Petersburg is making significant strides. Its well-developed metro and tram system help minimise car dependency, reducing emissions and traffic congestion.

The recent introduction of electric buses has further reinforced the city’s commitment to SDG 13 (Climate Action). Riding on one of these electric buses, I appreciated how the city balances historic preservation with forward-thinking sustainability policies.

The role of government and public-private partnerships

Both Moscow and St. Petersburg’s sustainability initiatives are largely driven by government policies and strategic public-private partnerships. Russia’s national commitment to the Paris Agreement has played a key role in shaping these urban projects.

A standout initiative is the "Smart City Moscow" project, which integrates digital technologies to optimise energy use and urban infrastructure. AI-driven data monitoring of electricity, traffic, and waste management ensures efficient city operations, making Moscow one of the most technologically advanced smart cities in the world.

Moreover, private companies have actively contributed to financing sustainability initiatives. Russian energy corporations have invested in LED lighting projects, green architecture, and energy-efficient urban planning.

These collaborations highlight the importance of shared responsibility in achieving sustainability goals.

Challenges and future prospects

Despite these advancements, challenges remain. One of the primary concerns is preserving historical structures while integrating modern sustainability measures. Renovations must be carefully executed to ensure energy efficiency without compromising architectural integrity.

Another challenge is fostering greater public awareness and engagement. While the government has implemented various sustainability initiatives, broader participation from residents and businesses is crucial for long-term success.

Increased educational campaigns on energy conservation, responsible tourism, and waste management could further strengthen these efforts.

Looking ahead, Russia has immense potential to enhance its sustainability commitments. Expanding renewable energy sources, investing in urban biodiversity, and adopting circular economy practices will be essential for continued progress.

The promotion of electric vehicle infrastructure and further development of AI-driven urban planning could place Moscow and St. Petersburg at the forefront of sustainable city models.

My visit to Moscow and St. Petersburg reaffirmed that urban beauty and sustainability can co-exist. Both cities have demonstrated impressive efforts in achieving SDG 7 and SDG 11 through energy-efficient lighting, smart urban planning, and eco-friendly transportation.

The Russian government’s commitment to sustainability, alongside strategic public-private partnerships, has created a model that balances aesthetics with environmental responsibility.

As cities around the world strive for sustainability, Moscow and St. Petersburg provide valuable lessons on integrating modern technology with historical preservation. My experience in these vibrant cities was not only visually captivating but also intellectually enriching, reinforcing the idea that urban illumination can be both beautiful and sustainable.

This journey has inspired me to continue exploring how global cities are adapting to sustainability challenges while maintaining their unique cultural identities.

-- BERNAMA

Oswald Timothy Edward (oswaldte@gmail.com) is a Senior Lecturer (Risk Management) at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Johor.