Health Promotion in New Zealand

Question: Discuss about theHealth Promotion in New Zealand. Answer: Introduction The assignment is a discussion on health promotion programme in New Zealand. It will evaluate the health issue that the programme is covering and describe risk factors for the disease or health condition. It will focus on the health inequality related to the disease in New Zealand and highlight the determinant of inequality. It will give a brief idea on the fundamental principles of Treaty of Waitangi. The report will also describe how the health promotion programme can reduce inequality and how it will benefit the community. Campaign Programme and Health Issue Addressed by it The campaign selected for this report is SunSmart for skin cancer prevention. It will address the issue of high rate of melanoma cancer in New Zealand. It is the most common cancer diagnosed in New Zealand with about 67,000 cases reported every year. The purpose of the campaign is to reduce the incidence and impact of skin cancer in New Zealand. The Health Promotion Agency in New Zealand have taken the initiative to prevent skin cancer and promotion of sun safety under the SunSmart campaign ("Skin cancer prevention | HPA - Health promotion agency", 2016). People with family history of skin cancer, history of tanning, light skins color, sensitive skin, etc. are at more risk of skin cancers. Change in diet can benefit the individual who is at more risk of skin cancer. A vegetarian diet with fruits, fresh herbs, olive oil, and fish minimizes the risk of melanoma. The antioxidants in diet protect against cellular damage by exposure to sun's UV rays. Several medical and surgical treatments like excision biopsy, mohs surgery, lymph node surgery, skin grafting and reconstructive surgery, curettage and electrodessication, etc are beneficial for patients, but they also have risk involved in it. Adverse complications of skin surgery include excessive bleeding, blood clotting abnormalities, bacterial wound infection, surgical injury to nerves and salivary glands, etc. Some medications like Vismodegib, sonidegib, etc have a risk of birth defect in pregnant women, and certain therapies may lead to redness, pain, and swelling (Song et al., 2013). Type of Health Inequality in New Zealand and Reason for it In New Zealand, health inequalities exist among socioeconomic groups, ethnic groups living in different geographic areas, males, and females. Indigenous people living in New Zealand are victims of health inequalities because of low socio-economic position. They are more exposed to risk factors and have a lack of access to proper health services. Poverty is the primary cause of ill-health among them. The health status of Maoris has deteriorated a lot because of this. Pacific people have poorer health than Pakeha. Gender and geographical inequalities also exist in New Zealand. The difference in the health status of the indigenous group has occurred because of inequality in income, employment, and housing. Significant impact on health status and mortality occurs because of differential access to health care services and the manner in which care is delivered to these groups (Devaux, 2015). This state has been maintained or created due to institutional racism among the Maoris and because of the effect of colonization and land confiscations. They have been forced to live their permanent dwellings and move to new area. This had eroded their economic stability and reduced their influence in the new settlement. Therefore, racism is the reason for less favorable access to health care, social and economic condition. It has also lead to psychosocial stress (Harris et al., 2012). Advantaged Group The most advantaged group in New Zealand according to health inequality are the indigenous groups like Maoris and the Pacific people. The health outcome for Maori and Pacific people is worse than non-indigenous groups of New Zealand even after controlling deprivation. Their life expectancy at birth is also lesser than non-indigenous population. Evidence have also shown that these people live in socially disadvantaged areas which make them unhealthy. Geographical differences in health occur because district with lower income group showed a higher rate of premature mortality and hospitalizations (Bcares et al., 2013). Determinants of Health Inequality Determinants of health inequalities include gender and culture of particular geographical locations, living and working conditions, socioeconomic and environmental conditions, social and community influences, individual lifestyle factors, age, sex and hereditary factors. People have no control over age, sex and hereditary factors, but other factors are under their control. Lifestyle factors like level of exercise, diet, smoking habits have impact on health. Social and community influence is also a major factor for health inequality which is evident from the poor political influence of Maoris. Indigenous groups had a low standard of living due to poverty which also leads to inequality of health. Ethnicity and gender are also a determinant as women, Maoris and Pacific people are not equal salary. Socioeconomic factors also have impact on access to proper health services (Prg et al., 2014). Treaty of Waitangi The primary purpose of New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000 is to provide public funding for public health, personal health, and disability support services and establish new public health organisation to promote better health for New Zealanders. It has implemented the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 which seeks to improve the health outcome of Maoris. It is an agreement which guaranteed the protection of Maori interest, and it was signed by British Crown and Maori chief. It deals with the methods that will ensure that the Maoris also contribute to decision making, and they also take part in the delivery of health services (Johnston, 2013). The principles of the Treaty of Waitangi looked after the cultural aspects norms and values of surrounding women health among an ethnic group of New Zealand. It promoted inclusion and participation in society and giving the best support to needy persons. Its objective was to reduce health disparities associated with health outcome of Maoris. Women's health is not given priority in ethnic groups. The treaty objective was to remove these norms by proper dissemination of information to deliver timely health services for the protection of disadvantaged groups. The principle of equality addressed the issue (Mokuau Mataira, 2016). Effect of Intervention of Health Inequality The intervention will reduce inequality and create better health opportunities for New Zealanders. Successfully meeting the objectives of the Treaty of Waitangi will lead to a fairer society where everyone will have a sense of belonging and everyones need would be addressed. It will not just improve the health status of indigenous population but will promote the well-being of the whole population of New Zealand. It will also lead to a stronger economy as better health contributes to richer social and economic life (Drummond et al., 2015). The methods to reduce inequalities include: Setting framework and principles at national, geographic and local levels by service providers, policy makers, and community groups. Addressing social, economic, cultural and historical barriers in society. Planning intervention at the structural level to tackle the cause of health inequality. Undertaking specific action for implementing health services in socially disadvantaged areas. Targeting psychosocial and behavioral factors of individual to change social norms in society. Minimising impact of disability among ethnic groups of New Zealand like Maoris and the Pacific people (O'Mara-Eves et al., 2013). To know whether inequalities has been reduced or not, The Ministry of Health can conduct a regular census of population to get information about health outcomes (such as morbidity, mortality), risk factors in health and level of service utilization such as prevention, treatment and rehabilitation methods. A periodical collection of these data will help in estimating whether inequalities have been reduced or not. Group Who will Benefit the most The indigenous population of New Zealand like Maoris, the Pacific, Pakeha and the Asian people will benefit the most from campaigns trying to reduce health inequality. This is because they suffer from maximum health inequality due to lack of access to health service and poor economic conditions. The SunSmart Campaign for skin cancer prevention will help in reducing impact of skin cancer by primary intervention, early detection and diagnosis, rehabilitative support and care, increasing research evaluation and surveillance. Their focus is on reducing exposure to ultraviolet radiation which is the major risk factor for skin cancer. They wanted to change individual behavior so that people are protected from excessive UV exposure and stays in effective sun safe setting. This program will help such population by bringing health service closer to their home. Through various programs, it will also educate the people about the importance of good health and remove social taboos existing in an ethnic population (Jones et al., 2014). Unintended Consequence The unintended consequences might be that it will change the pattern and approach of seeking health care services. Better health service will mean better prosperity and better economic status of the community. The knowledge and attitude of people towards illness will change. It might also be possible that despite several programs, health disparities may increase further because people might still not gain access to health care service. There might also be additional cost involved in implementing guideline rather than what was expected in the beginning. Performance and health improvement measurement might be difficult. Conclusion From the whole report, we get information about the role of health promotional campaign in addressing health issues in New Zealand. It highlighted the health inequality in the region and the population mostly affected by it. Through the Treaty of Waitangi, it explained what could be done to reduce health inequality and how the society will benefit from it. Reference Bcares, L., Cormack, D., Harris, R. (2013). Ethnic density and area deprivation: Neighbourhood effects on MÄ ori health and racial discrimination in Aotearoa/New Zealand.Social Science Medicine,88, 76-82. Devaux, M. (2015). Income-related inequalities and inequities in health care services utilisation in 18 selected OECD countries.The European Journal of Health Economics,16(1), 21-33. Drummond, M. F., Sculpher, M. J., Claxton, K., Stoddart, G. L., Torrance, G. W. (2015).Methods for the economic evaluation of health care programmes. Oxford university press. Harris, R., Cormack, D., Tobias, M., Yeh, L. C., Talamaivao, N., Minster, J., Timutimu, R. (2012). The pervasive effects of racism: experiences of racial discrimination in New Zealand over time and associations with multiple health domains.Social science medicine,74(3), 408-415. Johnston, K. (2013). Treaty of Waitangi.NZ Law Review,2013, 159-689. Jones, R., Bennett, H., Keating, G., Blaiklock, A. (2014). Climate change and the right to health for MÄ ori in Aotearoa/New Zealand.Health and Human Rights Journal,16, 54-68. Mokuau, N., Mataira, P. J. (2016). From Trauma to Triumph: Perspectives for Native Hawaiian and MÄ ori Peoples.Decolonizing Social Work, 145. O'Mara-Eves, A., Brunton, G., McDaid, G., Oliver, S., Kavanagh, J., Jamal, F., ... Thomas, J. (2013). Community engagement to reduce inequalities in health: a systematic review, meta-analysis and economic analysis.Public Health Research,1(4). Prg, P., Mills, M., Wittek, R. (2014). Income and income inequality as social determinants of health: do social comparisons play a role?.European sociological review,30(2), 218-229. Skin cancer prevention | HPA - Health promotion agency. (2016).Hpa.org.nz. Retrieved 22 July 2016, from https://www.hpa.org.nz/what-we-do/skin-cancer-prevention Song, F., Qureshi, A. A., Giovannucci, E. L., Fuchs, C. S., Chen, W. Y., Stampfer, M. J., Han, J. (2013). Risk of a second primary cancer after non-melanoma skin cancer in white men and women: a prospective cohort study.PLoS Med,10(4), e1001433.

Lickity Inc. Company analysis

Background Lickity Inc. is one of the foods producing companies in Malaysia dealing with supply of variety cakes. The company was founded in the year 1990 and operated a number of franchised stores within Kuala Lumpur. The stores were strategically located near major tourist shopping market segments in Kuala Lumpur. Lickity attracted a number of investors in the 1990s who desired to acquire franchise store with the company since the brand dominated food market (Wood et al 26).Advertising We will write a custom assessment sample on Lickity Inc. Company analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Description of the Company The company’s supply chain management ensured incorporation of limited product line for the purposes of reducing unnecessary wastes during manufacturing and marketing processes. Their product cakes were recognized for high quality ingredients sold at affordable proportions depending on consumer need. The cake s were full of cream and served all social classes and considered fit for all occasions including birthday parties. Lickity’s product portfolio comprised of twenty variety cakes including portable three-slice-cake served and eaten instantly since the pack contained required cutlery. Traditional moon cake was prepared specially for patrons who preferred enjoying in store eating within various shopping centres. The company experienced financial problems owing to increased rates in operational activities. Such expenses included rent payments across all stores as well as increase in cost of raw materials and other resources required due to high level of taxes (Wood et al 26). Lickity did not apply modernized system within their international market communication mix. They relied on traditional means of using retailers as the only means through which they reach customers. They heavily depended on distributions through franchised stores to generate revenue. Another problem was on t he composition of labour force where even students were considered for employment. Such strategy was used for the purposes of reducing cost of production. The company did not invest much in training and development of its staff and therefore experienced poor management strategies within the food and beverage market. Due to lowered costs of production and quality products, their brand was well positioned in the market attracting multitude of customers. However, the profit levels decreased since the year 2000, this was due to stagnation experienced within various segments of the supply chain (Wood et al 26).Advertising Looking for assessment on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Their products were based on unique qualities such as distinctive taste and shape of which sufficiently attracted customers. However, the stated objectives and mission statement are capable of driving any company when applied and implem ented appropriately. This should have enabled Lickity revive company’s marketing strategies based on global brand management within the segments it had experienced worst performances (Wood et al 26). Review of main ingredients should have been done on a monthly basis, the same to use of modern equipment and application of computerized technology in monitoring of supply chain. This should have been preceded by careful evaluation on market size, consumer behaviour towards food products within the different international market segments (Wood et al 26). Problem Lickity’s popularity before financial woos of 2000 was based on excellent services and prime quality products. The company benefited from market monopoly where its dominance was felt in most market segments (Wood et al). There were no competent competitors from the initial stages of operation hence Lickity enjoyed supplying customers with products at will. There was lack of properly organized sales and marketing te am with profound strategies capable of capturing significant customer base within Malaysian market. Global market had adopted the use of internet in dispatching products, most consumers found it easier to place orders via company’s websites. However, Lickity still relied on their manual system of delivery which experienced drastic fall on customers (Wood et al 26). Lickity was associated with poor management style especially on resources within supply chain stores. The results could be noticed on the drastic drop on sales over the last ten years since the year 2000. Effects of economic downturn further added to the company’s financial woo. Marketing team did not recognize the importance of company’s brand name within the market. Customers usually purchase products based on brand position within the market, brands within the food industry associated with healthy products appear more attractive to consumers since health is a priority. Lack of thorough inspection b y the management on franchises is also considered as great contributor towards Lickity’s financial problems (Wood et al 26).Advertising We will write a custom assessment sample on Lickity Inc. Company analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More At the same time adjustments on consumer tastes was not easy owing to different consumer preferences towards their health. This calls for the need for robust management team capable of making profitable adjustments within the core strategies. Inexperienced labour force is at times the mother of adversity within such companies (Pride et al). Competition was stiff within the food and beverage industry with such aggressive moves and strategies applied by competitors such as Maxims and queens. This was attributable to the nature of healthy products they offer consumers compared to Lickity. Consumers became health conscious hence preferred light low-fatty cakes as well as fruit cakes. This led to mass exodus of customers from in-store purchase of cakes. The operations from franchise stores recorded low sales leading to hefty overheads which contributed towards the company’s instability. Most consumers preferred making their purchases on-line hence worked with sophisticated companies. Reduction in the purchase of birthday party cakes was attributed to the fact that most customers organized such events in fast food restaurants. The competitors operated on strategic marketing where they target working class within the upper-market since most of them were usually loyal to the brand. Growth of other coffee-houses alongside baked products such as Starbucks uses branded products creating easy recognition and at the same time reward loyal customers (Starbucks Corporation 1). Level of hygiene matters since consumers’ value quality despite the kind of pricing mechanism used (Johlke and Dale 265-277). Problem Analysis Majority of the problems discussed could be at tributed to poor management principles and use of unqualified workforce. There was great competition from within food industry and international market. There was possibility of lack of workable strategies owing to lack of serious management team (Johlke and Dale 265-277). Lickity experienced its first financial drawback in the year 2000 leading to reduction of stock price to below $10 per share. The other problem was based on consumer health concerns; the products had high carbohydrate content considered harmful to health hence making consumers avoid Lickity cakes. Such incidences of closure affected the company’s profitability negatively (Johlke and Dale 265-277). Financial support can be obtained through varied activities including from financial institutions. There is opportunity for the company to generate more through on-premise sales. Lickity can also utilize fees and royalties from the Franchises, arguably organization of the supply chain determines to a greater exten t level of success attained by business companies (Johlke and Dale 265-277).Advertising Looking for assessment on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Alternative Solutions One of the possible solutions to Lickity is to consider forming partnership with other modernized company’s for the purposes of technology improvement. This should be accompanied by incorporating ways on product modification for the purposes of satisfying current consumer needs and tastes. At the same time Lickity requires recruitment of professionals with the ability of predicting and analysing market trends (Johlke and Dale 265). Use of internet in advertising should be considered by the company since majority of the clients use internet and social sites for communication based on purchases and deliveries (Johlke and Dale 265-277). There is profound need to work out on the company’s business models with change of strategy on working within recommended market segments which would enable positive experiences despite expected market uncertainties. Extensive training of marketing professionals is required especially within the international market. Diversification of product portfolio should be considered since consumers prefer to purchase from one-stop shop. Pricing techniques used by the company requires change since they deal with both domestic and international clients, such pricing as geographical pricing techniques should be used in this case. Nature of product’s quality, pricing and marketing strategies should vary depending on the demands of the market supplied with the products. Service marketing plays a vital role in making or breaking an organisation (Johlke and Dale 265-277). Excellent services tend to be remembered for all the good reasons which leave customers with a sense of delight, hence they remain loyal. On the other hand, a poor experience always leaves a bitter feeling which deters customers. Therefore satisfaction, value and quality are essential for a successful marketing service venture (Services Marketing). Works Cited Johlke, Mark Dale, Duhan. â€Å"Testing Competing Models of Sales Force Com munication.† Journal of Personal Selling Sales Management, 21 (2000): 265-277. Pride, Rundle-Thiele, Waller, Elliot Palandino, Ferrell. Marketing. Milton:John Wiley, 2007 Starbucks Corporation 2009, Company Profile: Reproduced in Business Source  Premier EBSCOhost. 18 Nov 2012. https://www.starbucks.com/ Services Marketing. 2010. Web. Wood et al. Management Problem Solving Frameworks- Tools Techniques. Sydney, McGraw-Hill, 2009. p 26. This assessment on Lickity Inc. Company analysis was written and submitted by user BenGr1mm to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

The Detrimental Character Iago in essays

The Detrimental Character Iago in essays In the drama Othello, there is no character in all of Shakespeare's plays so full of deceitful power and poison as Iago. He is envious of Michael Cassio and suspects that Othello has wronged his honor; but his malignancy is all out of proportion even to his alleged motives, through which he shows his ambivalence of nature. Allowing this green-eyed monster, envy, and jealousy, to get the best of him, will ultimately lead to his downfall. During most of the Play, the audience finds itself constantly trying to find a motive for Iagos actions but finds none that can justify him deceiving Othello. Despite Iagos recognizing that, indeed, the Moor is of a free and open nature (1.3.381), he still does despise him. Iago has to be examined closer to discover his motives: of course, he is jealous of Cassios appointment as Othellos lieutenant, and this jealousy is an ultimate irony in itself as he later mocks Othello for his own jealousy, having given in to the green-eyed monster. There are a lso Iagos blatant racial slurs and his obvious hatred towards Othello, as well as his paranoia regarding the supposed infidelity of his wife, And it is thought abroad that twixt my sheets hes [Othellos] done my office (1.3.369). However, the latter excuse may seem less reasonable, considering that Iago also utters later that he believes that Cassio has also slept with his wife. "O, Beware, my lord, of jealousy! It is the green-eyed monster (3.3.195-96)..."If a monster with green eyes were coming at an individual, what would one do? The answer of course, depends on the circumstances of that particular person. Would one permit the green-eyed monster to conquer his or her own mind, and control his or her every move? In this case the green-eyed monster would indeed be jealousy. Iago, for example, was prejudice towards the African American, Ot...

Vietnam War Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Vietnam War - Essay Example Instead, the Americans entered the war in Vietnam to counter the growing clout of a communist group known as the Viet Cong. Although the Americans had superior firepower, the Vietnamese, with their knowledge of the terrain and their guerilla tactics, finally forced America to withdraw after two decades of a long drawn and costly war. The cost to America in terms of economic and political losses, as well as loss of lives and humiliation at the hands of an enemy that seemed small and insignificant, was immense. Today, after over three decades, there is still no consensus among scholars and historians about whether America should have ever entered the war. Vietnam War The war in Vietnam was a long drawn out and costly conflict between South Vietnam, which was backed by America, and the communist regime of North Vietnam. The war began in 1954 with the rise of the communist party of Ho Chi Minh in North Vietnam and escalated into a war of ideologies against the backdrop of the cold war be tween the Soviet Union and America. It is estimated that more than three million people died in this war, of which a great majority were innocent civilians. The war that America invested in so heavily has been a cause of dissent and divisions among Americans, and by the time president Richard Nixon ordered withdrawal of troops in 1973, America had sacrificed thousands of her young men to this war. Finally, in 1975, Saigon fell to the communist forces and ended the war that had stretched over two decades. Dr. John Guilmartin, in his book America in Vietnam, remarks â€Å"The United States of America became deeply involved in Vietnam and that involvement had serious consequences† (Guilmartin,1991). The origins of the Vietnam War can be traced to the end of the Second World War. Before the war, Indochina or French Indochina, as it was then known, was a French colony consisting of today’s Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. In 1940, the Japanese invaded and occupied the northern part of Indochina and a little later the rest of it. In 1941, Ho Chi Minh, a communist leader, formed a nationalist movement called the Viet Minh to repulse the Japanese invasion. Soon after, the French began to encourage nationalism in Vietnam and gave them nominal independence. However, at the end of the war, when the Japanese surrendered, the French renewed their claim on Indochina. Ho Chi Minh assumed power in the north and proclaimed himself the leader of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. In his address in Hanoi, he proclaimed, "All men are created equal. They are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. This immortal statement was made in the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America in 1776. In a broader sense, this means all the peoples on the earth are equal from birth, all the peoples have a right to live, to be happy and free. Those are undeniable truths" (Ho Chi Minh, 1945). In the months after the end of the Second World War, Chinese soldiers began the looting of Vietnamese villages as they came down to North Vietnam from China. In the South, the French soldiers, released from Japanese camps, went on a rampage, killing and looting both innocent civilians and Viet Minh soldiers. In 1946, Chiang Kai Shek of China agreed to withdraw his troops from North Vietnam in exchange for French

Reproductive Rights Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Reproductive Rights - Essay Example II. Identification and Evaluation of Ethical Principles of Reproductive Rights Reproductive rights are controversial for several reasons. According to Bellieni and Buonocore (2006), some ethical principles which can be evaluated include: the potential abuse of womens’ bodies in a male-dominated medical profession; the debate over the validity of the embryo being seen as a ‘person,’ with regard to state and federal law; and the fact that studies have shown that in vitro fertilization has shown higher risks of birth defects such as cerebral palsy in children formed as a result of the procedure (pp. 93). Abortion is legal in the U.S., according to federal law. III. The Application of Principles to Ethical Issues with Various Implications One of the main arguments that naysayers usually make with regard to embryonic procedures is that embryos are actually people, and that scientists are ‘playing God’ by creating children in a scientific fashion—som etimes discarding embryos that are damaged, which to some people is unethical because a person’s life is being discontinued.

Urban Walkability and Transit Oriented Development (TOD)

Urban Walkability and Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Introduction The transit oriented development approach is being adopted by many cities around the world, particularly those contested with transforming their car dependent neighbourhoods into more habitable and sustainable developments. The simplest way to describe the principles of TOD according to Calthorpe (1993) is â€Å"moderate and high density housing, along with complementary public uses, jobs, retail and services, concentrated in mixed – used development at strategic points along the regional transit system†. Yet, much as connectivity to regional significance through transit is important, it is the communities’ close interaction, supported by a walkable environment that Calthorpe claims is the â€Å"key aspect† of any flourishing TOD. Over the years, pedestrian friendly design thus generated considerable interests and a significant amount of literature and influential policy on urban walkability in TOD’s were developed in the Western world’s temperate urban zones. Presently, however, many of the world’s fastest developing urban areas are found in subtropical latitudes (O’Hare,2006). Western Australia, and particularly Perth, the urban centre of the region is one such case and serves as the focus of this research. The paper explores the key aspects and physical qualities of built environment related to urban walkability with an intent to encourage further discussion and studies on how subtropical TOD’s can be designed to enhance pedestrian movement as well as question whether the orthodoxy of existing urban design principles require some alterations to better adapt to subtropical regions. The paper establishes the accepted arguments and urban design principles essential to urban walkability and develops from a review of urban design sustainability, a framework that would encourage pedestrians’ movement and transport waiting in a subtropical TOD. A literature review is produced to confirm the growing importance of walkability and ultimately the paper explores, through field observations, how the established urban walkability principles apply in the subtropical regions. It concludes by giving some recommendations that could be applied to Claremont town Centre for an improved pedestrian friendly TOD. Accepted arguments for urban walkability + Literature review Recognised as the oldest form of urban transport, walking is a way of encountering and engaging with the local surroundings and wider society in a manner not quite possible when adopting other means of transport, especially motor transport. Gehl Gemzoe (2003), strongly highlight walking as a solution to bettering the public ground as part of the enhancement of the local neighbourhood and urban rejuvenation. With emerging concerns that car dependent cities will not be sustainable in the future, due to energy costs, fuel availability, congestion, pollution and other environmental impacts, much awareness is being raised about the importance of walking. According to US researches, studies show that there is a 30% more likelihood that compact-mixed use development residents would walk (to a restaurant/park) than those inhabiting vast motor-oriented environments (Cervero Radisch,1996). Hodgson, Page, Tight (2004) also conclude from their research that that TOD’s with appropriate design lead to more pedestrian and transit trips resulting in a decline in non-motorised transportation modes to reduce pollution emissions In conjunction to sustainability issues, the intra-generational equity theory and policy also acknowledge that a major part of the population constitutes of people who are extremely young, old, unhealthy, disabled or needy to have access or control over a private car (O’Hare,2006). Recently, considerable interest in improved walking environments has been generated as a result of the desire to encourage nonmotorized transportation modes to reduce pollution emissions and to improve public health by increased levels of walking (Evans-Cowley, 2006). A large body of research has confirmed that a favorable walking environment is a necessary condition for promoting walking and neighborhood interaction (Clifton, Smith, Rodriguez, 2007). Public health The World Health Organisation (WHO) Charter on Transport, Environment and Health as well as the WHO Healthy Cities Program have recognised the prominence of urban walkability long before the urban design and planning fields. The public health sector recognises that ‘active transport’ (such as walking, including walking to the bus or train) involves incidental physical activity. This incidental physical activity is an important component of active living (O’Hare 2000). Active living, together with a healthy diet, has the potential to reverse current international trends towards sedentary lifestyles and the accompanying health risks associated with obesity. Australia has been rated by different agencies as one of the world’s top four countries for obesity. Given that much of the world’s urban population growth is occurring in the tropical and subtropical zones, it is important to examine urban walkability principles with particular attention to conditions in those non-temperate climatic zones. A Perth study found commuters using public transport accumulated seven times more exercise than private motorists The prevalence of obesity in Australia has more than doubled in the last 20 years: 52% of women, 67% of men, and 25% of children are overweight or obese. Urban walkability principles in TODs: Jacobs (1960) spelled out almost half a century ago that urban design qualities relating to the quality of pedestrian experience are essential to support walkability. â€Å"Active frontages† and â€Å"eyes on the street† were recognised as few of the many crucial aspects. Based on the best practices from around the world, 8 principles vital to creating walkable TOD’s are identified in this paper. WALK Developing attractive pedestrian environment ensures accessibility and mobility for all. PLACE-MAKING Creating a sense of place makes encourages pedestrian activity and liveability. CONNECT Creating dense networks of transit routes results in a high degree of connectivity. TRANSIT Locate land uses so that they are transit supportive and close to high quality transport. MIX Planning for mixed use will promote pedestrian interest, safety, 24 hour activity. DENSIFY Sufficient density and compact form make transit viable and improve walkability. COMPACT Planning for compact areas with short commutes improves efficiency. SHIFT Controlling the amount/location of parking increases mobility. It is however important to understand that although listed individually, for a development to become truly transit oriented, we must be able to blur the boundary between these principles so that they are all interrelated Urban design theory and practice guidelines for walkable places were mostly developed in cities located in the temperate climatic zone. In the subtropics, summer is the season of discomfort for walkers, whereas in temperate cities it is the winter that brings discomfort to urban pedestrians. The coastal subtropical city lacks the icy winds, snow, sleet, frost, and other winter discomforts of the temperate city. The pleasant winter pedestrian conditions of the subtropical city are offset, however, by the summer challenges of heat, humidity and glare. The next section of this paper explores the need for an ‘intemperate’ approach to achieving urban walkability in the subtropical city Urban walkability in subtropical TODs Framework It is important to understand that in the fast growing subtropical urban regions of the world, climate and local topography are influential elements associated with walkability. Moving at a slower pace, pedestrians are prone to observe many more perceptible details and are exposed to the surrounding elements and climatic factors. Protection from sun, rain, humidity or heat must therefore be taken into account when planning a pedestrian environment. Drawing on research and keeping in mind the factors associated with subtropical urban regions, a framework of urban design principles is developed as strategies that would best enhance pedestrian movement or waiting in subtropical TOD’s. The key factors to making walking appealing are grouped in three major categories: SAFETY, ACTVITY AND COMFORT. Figure 1 – Framework Venn diagram, 2014. Figure 2 – A balanced street has ample sidewalks, comfortable bike facilities that connect to a network, and safe ways to cross streets, making active transportation possible even on larger roads. Image by EMBARQ. Stimulating walking necessitates that these travellers can move around efficiency, comfortably, and most importantly, safely. Physical design strategies that could be implemented in the ‘Safety, Activity, Comfort’ framework are discussed below : Safety: Ensuring wider sidewalk can provide for easy pedestrian movement and at the same time promote commercial activity/interaction Removing physical or perceived barriers to ensure that the pedestrian has flat and obstruction free band of sidewalk – â€Å"pedestrian zone† Providing pedestrian oriented quality lighting that illuminated their paths will add to the walker’s sense of safety Responsive walk signs at crossing lights designed with better timing and automatic changing to prioritise the needs of pedestrians, raised intersections, mini roundabouts or speed humps will encourage safe movement. Activity: Well-connected streets ensure that residents can conveniently access all parts of the TOD, thus activating the street use. Developing mixed-use street active frontages promote safety, security and foster vibrant social life in the streets. Attractive spaces with building orientation to the public street, visual interests, building articulation and landscaping encourage pedestrians to gather and linger Way finding aids/proper signage must be implemented to help people orient themselves and encourage movement through open public areas. Transit stations should be activated by cafà ©/newspapers stands or other facilities to make transport waiting wothwhile Comfort: The use of shelters in pedestrian and transit areas/stops allows for discomfort reduction and provides rest for pedestrians. Provision of footpath awnings, arcades, and other weather protection at least at certain intervals will serve as shelter from sun or showers. Providing a high degree of street amenities (benches, garbage cans, drinking fountains) and resting places will heighten the image of the street and attract all demographics to comfortably linger. As well as providing a solution to the heat humidity, street trees shade and protect pedestrians from the rain. Walkers can also be protected from cars when greenery is carefully designed along curbs. Sidewalk with a width proportional to the scale of the TOD area and planned walkability level ensures comfortable walking experiences for everyone. Case studies Subiaco City and Claremont Town centre, selected as case studies for this paper are recent both transit oriented areas developed in Perth region with a railway line passing through. The study area boundaries for each include the area within an 800-metre radius surrounding the train station. Subiaco city -Subiaco, known as Subi is a historic inner western suburb located around 3kms from Perth CBD and is focussed around a lively retail strip of Rockeby road. The Subi Centro project encompassing the North and West of the Subiaco railway station began in 1994 and incorporated many new dwellings, business centres and commercial space. An important aspect was the undergrounding of the railway line which in the past divided Subiaco. As an exemplar of urban regeneration supporting its heritage context, the project achieves a high quality public realm. Claremont Town Claremont Town centre, another western suburb finds itself midway of Perth CBD and Fremantle port on the north bank of Swan River. Claremont Town centre is a significant shopping area concentrated around St Quentin’s Avenue/Bay View Terrace and located south of the Claremont train station. The Claremont North East Precinct project is an on-going project started in 2005 as an initiative to revitalise the Northern part of the town which is currently disconnected from the southern part. It aspires a vibrant mixed used development around the Claremont football oval as a step towards social, economic and environmental sustainability. The purpose of this report, being to assess and enhance the quality of pedestrian environment, 3 methods is used to gather information: Ped-shed analysis is conducted at a 400m radius (5 min walk) and an 800m radius (10 min- walk) SAFETY-ACTIVITY- COMFORT assessment sheet is used to rate physical micro – attributes of the built environment on the streets. Observational analysis of the site – pictures/personal experience DATA ANALYSIS The information collected from these were used to assess to what degree the factors discussed in the framework and considered influential to walkability are either present or lacking in these two study areas. Pedshed ratio Analysis of the connectivity of both TODs was assessed through the ped-shed ratios calculated. A comparison of the two diagrams that Subiaco’s street grid network provides many paths and connected streets, encouraging them to walk and be within short walking distance of the train station. Claremont on the other hand, lacks this degree of pedestrian connectivity and offers limited route choice to the person walking. After analysing the connectivity of each site, visuals were gathered from field observations to compare one to another. The Safety-Activity-Comfort assessment sheet was then used to examine and rate each category. Key findings As seen from the rating, Subiaco city stands out terms of providing certain positive physical street elements that affect walkability. Observation from field analysis showed that street frontages on streets adjacent to the train station were quite lively and highly articulated. Seating areas, lighting, greeneries and shaded spots contributed to attracting pedestrian activity in the area. It was gathered from observations and research that Subiaco’s success as a pedestrian friendly locality was also due to the fact that the City of Subiaco Councillors had established a vision statement of â€Å"The Best Main Street Village in Australia† for the area. Rockeby street, in this regard, was developed as a place to come back to instead of just being a transit street and development trends, opportunities and changes were carefully thought of so as the area’s unique ‘sense of place’ was preserved. Famously advocated by Toderian(2014) as â€Å"streets that are for people to enjoy and linger, not just move through..places that are both initially attractive and ‘sticky’, inviting people to love it and not want to leave it†, positive ideas of sticky street concept seems to have been successfully adopted in designing Subiaco’s main street. With the objective of planning not just for the infrastructure and public transpor t, but also the shops, cafes and the people, Rockeby Street has flourished as iconic community hub of social, civic and commercial activity with public spaces as focal points. On the downside however, field observations also indicated a number of vacant shops or those in the process of closing down in Rockeby road retail strip. High rental rates, competition from nearby precinct and over restrictive licensing policies has caused a decline in cafà ©/retail strips and a 5% retail vacancy rate in the area (Tsagalis2012). It was also found that an alfresco dining licence in Subiaco was more expensive than Western Australia’s average and compared to a survey of local governments in Perth and the eastern states (Law, 2014).Mayor Henderson (2014) has approached this issue stating that â€Å"We are aware that council needs to step up to the plate and make some changes in order to create the vibrancy in the main street in Subiaco†. In an effort to encourage more local businesses to operate street trading/ alfresco dining areas to revitalise a spirited street and safe environment for the community, the council of the City of Subiaco has recently resol ved to amend existing associated fees. As of 31st October 2014, a notable reduction in application/licensing fees, a m2 basis fee and the initiation of low-cost short term options will be available for Subiaco retailers and it an increase in street activity is expected. While Claremont Town centre forms part of a prominent retail area, it comes primarily in the form of indoor malls which attract the pedestrians inside rather than being on the road. The main transit adjacent road, Grugeri Street, has a blank wall faà §ade with limited or no pedestrian activity. The street is also very limited in term of comfort since the awnings size is too small to provide shade or shelter. Bus tops and street amenities also lack variety and enhancement to attract people to linger. Recommendations Apparent from the observational audit and findings is that Claremont Town centre has many physical weaknesses in terms of walkability in a subtropical TOD. Because similar weaknesses may exist other western Australian TOD’s, some recommendations may apply for multiple sites and can be used as a guide for enhanced walking experiences. It was revealed from the site observations and findings of these 2 TOD’s in Perth that there is some way to go before Western Australia can claim to have a truly sustainable approach. Having established that urban walkability is vital to achieve a sustainable subtropical TOD, it is important for TOD planners to be able to adopt a revised framework of principles regarding the physical environment attributes that would work best for subtropical Perth regions and merge them with new innovative design strategies which would further enhance walking in Perth. It is also important for town/city planners to review rules and regulations in order to increase vibrancy in TOD’s rather than being over restrictive. Conclusion Having established that a successful TOD walkability is directly associated with a safe, comfortable and attractive pedestrian environment, this paper demonstrates that careful physical planning and good urban design solutions can very much enhance the pedestrian’s experience. It questions the needs of a subtropical city in term of its climate, topography and identity and then explores a framework of revised walkability principles that can be applied to the subtropical city. The case studies reveal responses and challenges to urban design for walkability in Perth and certain successful elements are recommended as strategies to improve Claremont’s TOD in terms of walking experience. It also questions whether over restrictive planning policies may need to be reconsidered to keep a TOD street alive and vibrant. It also recommends innovative strategies of urban design that other projects may copy or adapt in part for design and place-making approaches to give a unique sense of place to the subtropical TOD. Although each future TOD will deal with the numerous complex design challenges depending on particular circumstances around each project, it is the intention of this paper to stimulate discussion and hopefully more substantial research into the planning of walkable subtropical cities since so many of the world’s most rapidly growing urban areas are now situated in the tropical and subtropical zones.

American Centennial Exposition

The Centennial Exposition of 1876 was America’s first official world’s fair. This fair was held in Philadelphia for celebrating 100th anniversary of the â€Å"Declaration of Independence†. This fair was really important in the history of America as it portray an image of progressive American society, culture and economy on an international platform. This Centennial Exposition was not only celebrated America’s hundred years of independence, but it was also held to showcase the recovery of the country form its reconstruction phase after its independence and the emergence of the nation as an internationally significant industrial super power.This paper will make an attempt to analyze how the Centennial Exposition of 1876 represented the identity of America and how this exposition provided a narrative of American history. The main focus will be on the nature of the exposition which is known better known as a platform where America’s image transformation was made. Thus the thesis statement of this paper can be as follows: The Centennial Exposition of 1876 gave the country a new progressive image in socio-cultural and economic field of America.This thesis statement will be illustrated throughout this paper using several primary sources relating to the American Centennial Exposition of 1876. The focus will be on how the exposition portrayed America’s emergence as a big economic power in world, and how it depicted socio-cultural progress of the nation in terms freed slaves and increasing women contribution in the society. Apart from these, this paper will also discuss how the exposition highlighted the future of America. American Centennial Exposition:The American Centennial Exposition was actually an official exhibition of Manufactures, products of mine and soil, and arts on an international platform. A large section of American population attended the fair. Approximately twenty percent of the population at that time visited t he fair. While in one hand, the fair is memorable for the publication of various Centennial and other poems and music, on the hand, this exposition was designed to showcase America’s innovative progress in the industrial arena. The planning for this exposition had taken as many as ten tears to give it its final shape.The primary sources relating to the American Centennial Exposition including guide to the Centennial, its images, its roadmap, and various articles like â€Å"illustrated History of the Centennial exhibition, held in commemoration of the one hundredth anniversary of American independence† by McCabe portray the features of the exposition and how the exposition had captured the American history and created a new image of the nation to the world. From the photos, Centennial souvenir, and guide to the exposition, it is found that the focal point of the exposition was to showcase its industrial progress.The main attraction of the fair was its Machinery Hall whi ch was decorated with excellent engineering wonders of that age. It showcased electric lights, strongly powered elevators, printing presses, locomotives, mining equipments, magic lanterns, along with introducing some completely new engineering products to the public like mechanical calculator, typewriters, the telephone which was invented by bell, and the telegraph invented by Edison. All these engineering products show the bright industrialized future of the country. Apart from the Machinery building, there were also a number of other attractions in the exposition.For example, significant number of visitors used to visit the Main Building of the fair which was devoted to manufactures of different nations including America. Apart from this, there were also the Memorial which showcased fine arts and the Horticulture Hall which was actually a conservatory for displaying of various native and exotic plants. One of the most excellent things about this first international fair of America was that it presented everything in a very systematic way in the sense that every item was classified in the exposition by departments, like Manufactures, Horticulture, Agriculture, Mining, Education and science and so on.Not only that, there were also various sub-classifications, and sub-sub-classifications on the basis of a logical scheme. The Centennial Exposition produced significant impact on the image of the United States. Prior to 1876, the US was generally considered as a not-so-developed country which was not yet entitled for joining the category of first-class nations. The people living in America in the post Civil War period had gone through a very difficult phase as all those years were marked by various heinous political scandals along with inferior leadership. Although progress in the field of agriculture, industry, etc.had been taking place remarkably on the land of America, it had never been highlighted to the rest of the world. It was the Centennial Exposition whic h for the first time gave an opportunity for the visitors as well as businessmen from other nations to have a close look and get astonished at the sparkling industrial productivity of the America along with its creativity and progressiveness in the field of industry and agriculture. It was only after this fair, when America was started to be hailed as the land of progress which was also thought of becoming one of the most significant economic superpower in future.The exposition gave the people living in America at that time pride in their present situation and lots of confidence on their even brighter future. (University of Delware library, 2009). The American utilized the platform of the Centennial to highlight their innovations in industrial and agricultural areas as at that time they were on the verge of beginning its global economic presence amidst the then economically powerful nations. Representatives of other countries, who came to the fair to showcase their own thing, also g ot the opportunity to purchase things from American firms.The engineering marvels created by Native Americans impressed the visitors. Americans showcased huge engines and machines having complex system that would become the economic future of America by producing industrial products. Primary sources like the photos and Guide to the Exposition show that American did not participate in the fair only to represent America as a whole; instead in a number of cases they represented various states of America. For example, there was Delaware Building in the fair which represented this various crafts of this state.Delaware put its focus on its potentials for developing with a strong economy. It emphasized towns, its transportation facilities along with educational facilities. (University of Delware library, 2009). As far as the socio-cultural field is concerned, this fair also showcased its culture to the rest of the world by introducing around 53 native tribes. They were brought to the fair and they made their camp within it and became one of the most popular display of the fair. The motive behind showcasing them was to introduce the original inhabitant of the nation and their mode of life.These tribal people were considered to be the most deprived and backward segment of the population. But without their progress, the overall economic progress could not have been achieved. The purpose of putting special focus on them was to send message to the rest of the world that the American government was quite aware of the progress of these native people without exercising any bias towards a particular advanced group of people only. (â€Å"People & Events: The Centennial Exposition of 1876†) Finally, the exposition also represented the contribution of women to the American society for the first time in the history of America.Various primary sources like the articles, such as â€Å"illustrated History of the Centennial exhibition, held in commemoration of the one hundredt h anniversary of American independence† by McCabe, â€Å" Declaration and Protect of the Women of the United states† by National Woman Suffrage Association , etc showed that at the time of planning of the fair a committee for women protested the male dominated nature of the fair and lobbied for creating a women’s building in the fair. This committee also raised fund and gained support for constructing their own building.They also showcased women’s contribution in the areas of arts, science, humanities and so on. The members of National women Suffrage also made an attempt to read a declaration or their rights. But they were not permitted to do so for which they showcased huge protest. Conclusion: The American Centennial Exposition can therefore be characterized as a platform where Americans tried to change their image to the rest of the world. In practice, the Americans were able to properly utilize the big platform of the fair to create their new identity as a progressive economic power which had a bight future.The wonderful narratives of its historical development through exhibiting its progress in industrial, agricultural, and socio-economic sector attracted huge number of visitors across the world and changed their vision regarding the nation. Reference: 1. UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE LIBRARY. (2009). PROGRESS MADE VISIBLE: THE CENTENNIAL EXPOSITION, PHILADELPHIA, 1876. Available at http://www. lib. udel. edu/ud/spec/exhibits/fairs/cent. htm ( accessed on 26th August, 2010). 2. People & Events: The Centennial Exposition of 1876. Available at http://www. pbs. org/wgbh/amex/grant/peopleevents/e_expo. html ( accessed on 26th August, 2010). :