History of US vs EU Built environment

#American culture is all about cars. We've got highways cutting through neighborhoods and congested downtowns that top the list of most polluted places. ⁣⁣There's got to be a better way.⁣⁣ #European cities, in contrast, are walkable or bike-friendly with fewer cars. ⁣⁣In this video, you'll see how American streets are like racetracks, whereas European streets are more like playgrounds.

[kenhunt]

Yes, the EU is largely more walkable and transit oriented.
But the housing stock is not prepared for the current energy costs.
Many are poorly built in terms of air flow, heating, cooling and lack of maintenance. Most built before the 80s have almost no insulation. Few have ceiling fans. AC is not common. Many lack enough windows for airflow.
The old Centros are amazing but from Pisa to Prato most are two to three story walk ups that are boring. Most in the EU live in housing that are typical apartments that are not suited for what is coming. They are car dependent too. I can't tell you how many piazza's in Italy are just parking lots.
Yes, the US is too care centric which leads to sprawl, obesity and a land of sterile beige homes.
The costs to make our urban areas more walkable, energy efficient and equitable will be staggering.

In Italy, most buildings are at the lowest level of efficiency - G.