ABSTRACT
For several reasons the urban core is one of the most challenging areas for dealing with environmental problems. First, it does not embody the urgency of a contaminated industrial site nor does it command the emotional response that a residential neighbourhood may inspire. Due to its commercial orientation, the environmental health of the urban core is ultimately equated with its economic vitality. Thus, in an economically challenged downtown area, the natural environment does not hold priority in renewal efforts. Finally, due to the physical density of built form and impermeable surfaces, little more than the weather acts as a connection to the natural world. Many people including consumers, residents and business owners remain apathetic to their environmental impact within the urban core.
