The numerous benefits of walking, as one of the healthiest, simplest, and most cost-effective modes of transportation, have prompted many urban researchers to identify influential factors in pedestrian-oriented urbanism. These efforts aim to transform urban areas, including neighborhoods, into conducive environments for walking, thereby realizing related benefits such as sustainable development. Extensive research has confirmed the role of the built environment in attracting and distributing pedestrian movement, with a significant portion highlighting the relationship between urban configuration and walkability. This study aims to determine the role of urban configuration components in enhancing walkability at the neighborhood scale, selecting the Valiasr neighborhood in Tehran due to its location in the city’s commercial center with a high volume of pedestrian traffic. For this purpose, after identifying spatial configuration components related to walkability – including accessibility, connectivity, and spatial arrangement components – key streets in the neighborhood's spatial configuration were identified using an initial analysis of spatial arrangement variables, followed by a survey of pedestrian volumes on selected streets. The evaluation of configuration components led to design recommendations in two layout patterns – grid and parallel block. The relationship between urban configuration and walkability, utilizing space syntax techniques, was identified after analyzing spatial arrangement variables in three different scenarios (existing condition and two proposed alternatives). The results indicate that accessibility components have the most significant impact on walkability in the Valiasr neighborhood. Following this, connectivity components were identified as influential in promoting pedestrian-oriented urbanism. Regarding spatial arrangement components, a comparison with prior research confirms that spatial elements do not operate independently of mixed-use and access to services and facilities. Instead, they play a role not in the formation of movement but in facilitating and directing it.

Earthquakes, as one of the most destructive natural disasters, have always posed significant challenges to humanity. The construction of temporary housing in post-earthquake conditions is very necessary and should be considered as a life-saving measure. To ensure the safety and health of the people affected by the earthquake, it is necessary to provide solutions for cheap, fast, and safe housing. Construction solutions for cheap and fast housing in times of crisis require the use of earthquake-resistant technologies. Among the types of post-earthquake temporary housing, housing construction using Super Adobe is one of the solutions that speed up the construction process and reduce costs. The purpose of this article is to investigate the need and construction of an emergency shelter using the Super Adobe method after the deadly earthquake in Herat, Afghanistan in 2023. The research paradigm is qualitative and comparative methods and logical analysis have been used in it. In the first part, the types of emergency shelters were compared and the construction of emergency shelters using the Super Adobe method in Herat was evaluated. Then 38 samples made in the Sanjab village of Herat were examined. The results of the research show that according to the geographical, economic, social, physical, and rural conditions of the region, the problems and challenges in the preparation of materials, and the construction of earthquake-resistant shelters, the Super Adobe method is the most suitable option for the construction of emergency shelters in this region. The ability to implement in a short time, the use of local materials, compatibility with the rural context, resistance to cold, heat, and climatic conditions of the region, resistance to earthquakes, low cost, and compatibility with sustainable rural development are the main reasons for the compatibility of this plan with the existing post-earthquake conditions.

The relationship between humans and nature is in permanent change. Where the city and nature used to be seen as enemies that needed to be kept away from each other, the current paradigm looks at a more symbiotic relationship. In this, man is seen as part of nature, and the city is seen as a determining factor in providing conditions for a rich urban ecology. In this study, urban conditions are seen as the starting point for urban design, enabling biodiversity to thrive. The aim of the research is to distill design strategies that enhance nature in an urban context. These strategies are derived from existing theories, the typical relationship between the city and nature, and the understanding of the natural landscape, and are applied in the heated, dry, and rocky conditions in the metropolitan region of Monterrey, Mexico. The main finding is that the city contains ecologies with their own characteristics, often distinct from rural or natural ecologies. These specific conditions can be amplified using adequate design strategies, which may lead to a greater biodiversity. For improving urban biodiversity, the perspective on the city shall be transformed from seeing it as an enemy of nature towards a symbiotic relationship between the two. At the same time, this perspective requires additional research into two main aspects: the way the city is able to create its own climatic conditions, and how landscape-based design can enhance the urban conditions in a way nature occupies these novel ecological niches.

As urbanization continues to intensify, high-density cities grapple with escalating environmental and social challenges that directly impact the well-being of their inhabitants. This paper explores the potential of vertical green landscape facades as a pragmatic solution to mitigate these issues while fostering sustainability within urban environments. In recent times, vertical green landscape design concepts have garnered increasing attention and popularity for their ability to combat pollution and enhance the quality of life in densely populated urban areas. This paper delves into the manifold benefits of vertical green landscapes, as demonstrated by recent research, focusing on their positive reception among the public and their capacity to offer novel avenues for developing green infrastructure. Through an in-depth analysis of relevant literature and case studies, this paper evaluates the role of vertical green landscapes as an effective reducer of pollution in high-density cities. It discusses their capacity to mitigate air and noise pollution, improve microclimates, and contribute to urban aesthetics. Additionally, it addresses the social and psychological advantages of integrating these green systems into urban design, emphasizing their potential to enhance the well-being and livability of city dwellers. By combining quantitative and qualitative methods, the study aims to provide a holistic understanding of the benefits and challenges associated with these innovative urban green solutions. In conclusion, this paper underscores the pivotal role of vertical green landscape facades as a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing means of combatting the environmental and social challenges of high-density urbanization. By presenting empirical evidence of their efficacy and positive reception, it advocates for their increased integration into urban planning and design strategies as a pragmatic response to the complex issues faced by contemporary cities.

Double skin façades and the Internet of Things (IoT) are pivotal in enhancing a structure’s energy efficiency and natural ventilation. Their impact, however, varies based on design size and geographical location, prompting an exploration of the nuanced interplay between IoT technology and energy savings across diverse building types and climates. The paper emphasizes crucial considerations in assessing IoT’s impact on energy efficiency, such as building’s category and location, whether a towering skyscraper, a modest apartment complex in arid New Mexico, or a structure in frigid Alaska. Investigating whether one type outperforms others and discerning global prevalence becomes essential. The exploration delves into design challenges posed by different building categories, addressing questions about the nature of a particular type presenting intricate obstacles to efficient design and whether regulatory requirements limit creative possibilities. Additionally, it examines the adaptability of doubleskin façades concerning materials without compromising performance. Enhancing energy efficiency and indoor thermal comfort involves manipulating materials for façade skins, introducing characteristics like fabrics for outer skins to allow airflow, and mitigating heat radiation from inner skins made of concrete, glass, or metal. This time lag contributes significantly to maintaining ideal indoor thermal conditions. The integration of IoT technology is pivotal, generating real-time data and notifying users of temperature differentials. This data-driven approach ensures optimal façade operation compared to conventional methods. In conclusion, the paper underscores the critical relationship between IoT technology and energy conservation in diverse building categories and climates, shedding light on challenges and opportunities associated with energy efficiency design. It advocates for the intelligent use of materials and IoT technology to realize substantial energy savings and improved indoor comfort. Exploring design challenges and considerations provides valuable insights for practitioners in the field.

Integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) into building design and operation has ushered in a new era of sustainable architecture and enhanced occupant comfort. This paper presents comprehensive case studies focused on the application of IoT technology in the context of double-skin facades, explicitly focusing on achieving and optimizing thermal comfort. These case studies, located in an urban setting, represent a paradigm shift in architectural design principles. Double skin facades, renowned for their potential to enhance energy efficiency and occupant well-being, are further empowered through the intelligent deployment of IoT devices. This synergy between architectural innovation and digital technology is instrumental in addressing the pressing challenges of energy consumption and occupant comfort in urbanized areas. It delves into the sensors, actuators, and data analytics systems employed to monitor and control the indoor environment. Special attention is given to the dynamic adaptation of the facade system in response to real-time environmental conditions, occupancy patterns, and user preferences. One of the case studies—PH01-BRK, projects the practical application of these principles in South Dakota’s first custom passive and net-zero home, completed in 2016, using advanced thermal analysis tools, software for heating and cooling requirements, and solar data assessment. Furthermore, the paper investigates the impact of IoT-enabled double-skin facades on thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality within the Brookings Passive House. Quantitative data and occupant feedback are analyzed to assess the effectiveness of the IoT-driven system in maintaining optimal thermal conditions while minimizing energy consumption. The findings of this case study underscore the potential of IoT technology in revolutionizing the design and operation of sustainable buildings. It demonstrates that integrating IoT into double-skin facades can significantly enhance thermal comfort, reduce energy consumption, and create healthier indoor environments.

Site suitability analysis is a strategic approach for identifying an optimal location for a specific activity through an examination of the current site. To conduct a comprehensive site analysis, various factors, including administrative data, topographical characteristics, and thorough research on land use and land cover, may be taken into account. This study aims to propose the most fitting site for establishing a renal hospital in Canacona, where a notable increase in renal disorders has been observed in recent years. The study is prompted by the local population’s demand for healthcare services and the absence of adequate existing healthcare infrastructure. To compile the primary dataset, GPS survey and on-site observations were conducted to gather the geographical coordinates of existing hospitals and pharmacies. The secondary dataset includes satellite images obtained from Landsat 8 (OLI) to create a Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) map, as well as data from the Advanced Space-borne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) for generating a Digital Elevation Model (DEM). These datasets encompass various parameters such as DEM, LULC, road networks, existing hospitals, and pharmacies, all of which were utilized in the development of the site suitability model. The process involves assigning values to these parameters, and subsequently, a weighted overlay analysis was employed to determine suitable areas for the proposed renal hospital. The results were categorized into four classes: undesirable, less suitable, moderately suitable, and most suitable sites. After careful analysis, the optimal location for the renal hospital in Canacona was identified, spanning an area of approximately 1.55527 hectares.

This study examined the effect of mishandling and vending of used engine oil (UEO) on the environment, health, and urban planning. An evaluation of UEO handling, environmental and public health effects, spatial distribution of UEO vendors and contributing factors to choice of location, and the relationship between the vending location and the contributing factors to the choice of the location was provided. The research adopted multiple approaches including questionnaire administration, interview, observation, and application of a Global Positioning System, Geographic Information System, measuring tape, and a camera. An accidental/snowball sampling technique was viable for the study. Data collected were processed using Microsoft Excel. Descriptive and inferential statistical techniques were used. Results revealed the UEO was acquired from mechanic garages (41%) and stored in plastic containers (74%) until it was completely disposed of (91%). 52% had a hazy knowledge of the environmental effect of UEO, yet 45% rated the extent of its contamination as high. 59% were aware of its potential hazard which can get into the human body through ingestion but did not know it could get into the human body through contact with skin (74%) or breathing (61%). However, 84% wash their hands before a meal, with soap/water (67%), and change clothes after handling the used engine oil (69%). Most of the spots were located within 0-20 meters from the road (11), along the highways, occupying the metalled portion of the road, the road shoulders, setbacks, and walkways, blocking drainages and affecting the visual and aesthetic value of the environment. A larger proportion (40) revealed that visibility/accessibility guided their choice of location. Also, a low correlation coefficient of 0.32 was recorded. The study recommended the promotion of awareness programs, enforcement of environmental regulations, good hygiene practices, enforcement of standards and development regulations, and application of smart technology and big data.

This review delves deep into the intricate relationship between urban planning and flood risk management, tracing its historical trajectory and the evolution of methodologies over time. Traditionally, urban centers prioritized defensive measures, like dikes and levees, with an emphasis on immediate solutions over long-term resilience. These practices, though effective in the short term, often overlooked broader environmental implications and the necessity for holistic planning. However, as urban areas burgeoned and climate change introduced new challenges, there has been a marked shift in approach. Modern urban planning now emphasizes integrated blue-green infrastructure, aiming to harmonize human habitation with water cycles. Resilience has become the cornerstone, ensuring cities can adapt to and swiftly recover from flooding events. Through meticulous spatial planning, land use regulations, and the integration of green infrastructure, urban planning has transformed cities into sustainable habitats. Yet, challenges abound, from rapid urbanization to socio-economic disparities that amplify vulnerabilities. Drawing lessons from successful strategies adopted in cities like Rotterdam, Singapore, and Portland, this review underscores the imperative of innovative thinking, community engagement, and adaptability. In conclusion, effective urban planning can indeed metamorphose flood challenges into opportunities for resilience, sustainability, and improved quality of life.