A LETTER FROM SPECIAL EDITION EDITOR IN CHIEF - DR. DEEPASHREE CHOUDHURY

Abstract

Dear Readers and Contributors, It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the special edition of the International Conference on Multidisciplinary Aspects of Built Environment (ICoMABE) 2024. This special issue, curated to coincide with the conference held from June 20-22, 2024, brings together pioneering research and innovative practices in the fields of architecture, urban planning, material technology, and pedagogical advancements in spatial design. The tracks covered in this edition—ranging from sustainable urban development and smart city designs to cutting-edge building materials, disaster-resistant structures, and pedagogical innovations—reflect the breadth of the built environment’s challenges and opportunities. As we navigate the evolving landscape of our cities, these topics are not only timely but critical for shaping a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future. The built environment is facing an era of unprecedented change, driven by rapid urbanization, climate challenges, technological advancements, and evolving societal needs. ICoMABE 2024 serves as a timely platform to address these critical issues through a multidisciplinary lens, bridging the gaps between architecture, urban planning, construction technologies, and design education. As we confront the challenges of sustainable development, carbon-neutral construction, and the demand for smarter, more inclusive cities, this conference has become a significant gathering point for professionals, academics, and innovators committed to shaping the future of our built spaces. The need for such a conference is underscored by the increasing complexity of today’s urban environments. The convergence of design, technology, and sustainability is no longer optional but essential in creating resilient and equitable spaces that meet the demands of diverse populations. ICoMABE 2024 emphasizes not only the exploration of innovative solutions but also the importance of integrating sustainability into all aspects of planning and development. By bringing together thought leaders from across disciplines, this conference fosters the exchange of knowledge and ideas necessary to address the multifaceted challenges facing the built environment today. The discussions and research presented here aim to shape policies, inspire groundbreaking designs, and influence future practices in creating livable, sustainable, and future-ready environments. ICoMABE 2024 has provided a platform for researchers, practitioners, and educators to share their expertise, and I am excited to present the key findings, insights, and discussions that emerged from this event. The articles selected for this special issue highlight the multidisciplinary nature of the built environment and emphasize the importance of collaboration between academia and industry to foster meaningful change. This edition includes thought-provoking explorations into sustainable urban design, innovations in material science, and the integration of technology in design education. As editor, I have been privileged to work closely with the authors, whose contributions have demonstrated outstanding originality and relevance to the global context of our built environment. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the contributors, reviewers, and the organizing committee of ICoMABE 2024 for their unwavering support and dedication. I hope that this special issue will not only inspire future research and innovation but also serve as a valuable resource for scholars, practitioners, and students in our field.