Community Planning Research Articles

Status and prospects of research on new rural communities in China based on CiteSpace analysis

ABSTRACT New rural communities, as a model of rural residence, play a crucial role in rural development. This study utilizes the CNKI database and employs keyword analysis in CiteSpace to examine research on new rural communities in the 21st century. Findings reveal that: (1) The current research focuses on the necessity and promotion of national policies, identifying deficiencies in the policy system and improving. It also examines community planning systems, construction mode classifications, and performance evaluation methods, as well as governance models, stakeholders, and challenges. These areas are interconnected over time. (2) Time can be divided into three phases: the first phase, research focused on single elements such as health care, political construction, education, etc. with slow progress. The second stage, diversified explorations began, and policy research and practical reflection were coupled and developed. The third stage emphasizes more on the concern for humans, and the emphasis of the research is expanded from the material level to spiritual. (3) Present research has yielded significant outcomes, transitioning from empirical studies to profound theoretical analyzes. However, challenges persist, such as the absence of a comprehensive theoretical framework and methodological innovation. Future research should emphasize systematic exploration of policies, prioritize localized construction models, and drive research methodology innovation.

Research on biomechanics-informed rural planning strategies for enhancing biodiversity and health

Rapid urbanization has resulted in decreased biodiversity, adversely impacting ecosystem functions and human health, especially in rural regions. Biomechanics-informed rural planning integrates principles of biological mechanics with biodiversity enhancement and public health objectives to establish sustainable communities. Purpose: This study aims to foster resilient ecosystems and healthier rural populations by introducing biomechanics-informed approaches to rural planning that synergize biodiversity enhancement with health promotion. Methods: This study bridges the knowledge gap by examining the relationship among biomechanically efficient behaviors, personal health, and ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (EDRR) through the lens of the Health Belief Model (HBM). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to investigate the correlations between the study's key variables. The research focused on a rural community impacted by disaster to test the hypotheses, exploring biomechanics-informed rural planning strategies that facilitate sustainable development and biodiversity enhancement. Results: The findings indicate that health perceptions and EDRR attributes indirectly influence biomechanically efficient behaviors. Specifically, participation in activities that support biodiversity is positively associated with perceptions of social integration benefits, EDRR awareness, and health promotion. Conclusion: This study underscores the potential to integrate biomechanics into Emergency Disaster Risk Reduction (EDRR) initiatives and community planning to encourage healthy lifestyles and enhance the environmental sustainability of resilient communities.

Food Policy Councils and Healthy Food Access Policies: A 2021 National Survey of Community Policy Supports.

Food policy councils (FPCs) are frequently used to facilitate change in food systems at the local, state, and regional levels, or in tribal nations. The objective of this study was to describe the prevalence of food policy councils and similar coalitions among US municipalities and their associations with healthy food access policies. We used data from the 2021 National Survey of Community-Based Policy and Environmental Supports for Healthy Eating and Active Living, administered to municipal officials from May through September 2021. We used logistic regression models to examine associations between 1) having an FPC and 2) FPC membership composition and healthy food access policies. We grouped policies into 4 categories based on topic modules in the survey instrument: supporting new or existing food stores to sell healthy foods, financial or electronic benefits transfer (EBT) supports, transportation-related supports for accessing locations to purchase food, and consideration of local food supports in community planning. Municipalities with FPCs (27.6%) had significantly higher odds than municipalities without FPCs of having policies supporting access to food retail stores (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.5; 95% CI, 1.2-1.9), access to farmers markets (AOR = 2.2; 95% CI, 1.7-2.7), access to transportation supports (AOR = 2.2; 95% CI, 1.8-2.8), and objectives in community planning documents (AOR = 2.0; 95% CI, 1.6-2.5). Among municipalities with FPCs, those with a health/public health representative (42.1%) or a community representative (65.1%) were more likely to report having any healthy food access policies. This study emphasized the positive association between FPCs and healthy food access policies. This study also highlights the potential importance of FPC membership composition, including health/public health and community representatives.

How do neighborhood environments impact adolescent health: a comprehensive study from subjective and objective perspectives using machine learning method.

Existing studies have established a linear relationship between urban environments and adolescent health, but the combined impacts of subjective and objective environments on multi-dimensional health status (including physical and mental health) have not been fully explored. Furthermore, while some studies have examined the non-linear relationship between urban environments and adult health, research specifically focusing on adolescents is sparse. Using Kunming, China, as a case study, we employ Random Forest model to examine the non-linear relationship between subjective/objective neighborhood environments and adolescent physical/mental health. The results indicate that the objective environment plays a more significant role in influencing physical and mental health in adolescents. There are generally non-linear correlations and threshold effects between neighborhood environment variables and adolescents' health status. Specifically, the effects of distance to subway station, ratio of traffic safety facilities, and greening view index on adolescent physical and mental health differ. Additionally, subjective environments characterized by community management, community image, and community capital tend to positively influence adolescents' health status. This study provides valuable insights for the planning of healthy communities, environmental interventions, and health promotion in specific dimensions among adolescents.

Strategi Pengembangan Atribut Green City Kota Malang

A green city is a city with good planning that has an environmentally friendly character and seeks to manage its resources for everything that focuses on environmental balance. In an effort to create a green city, various planning and implementation programs have been and are being carried out, both by the government, private sector and also the community in order to realize the concept of a green city. One form of sustainable program to support, this is known as the Green City Development Program (Program Pengembangan Kota Hijau) or more easily abbreviated as P2KH which refers to the Regional Spatial Planning Plan (Rencana Tata Ruang Wilayah) or abbreviated as RTRW. Green cities themselves have indicators called eight (8) green city attributes, including: green open space, green waste, green transportation, green water, green energy, green building, green community, and green planning and design. The background on this research is presented in three criteria, including empirical problems, theoretical frameworks, and legal foundations used as references or legal guidelines for implementing the green city concept. It is known that the complexity of society's demands increases as the population increases. This of course becomes a challenge in managing environmental resources. Problems such as traffic jams, air pollution, increasing volumes of waste, slums, flooding and other social inequality problems, which of course with the increasing population, logically result in the living area becoming increasingly narrow. What happened in Malang City is no exception. Malang City has great potential for better services, especially in the context of realizing a green city. The research results show that there are eight green city attributes that have been implemented in several activities in Malang City. In practice, these eight attributes need continuous development. The concept of a green city is not a simple concept that can be planned once and then realized, it is a holistic, continuous and sustainable concept. Therefore, this research provides an in-depth look at strategies for developing green city attributes in Malang City using a qualitative approach. The strategy for developing green city attributes in the city of Malang is carried out through the SOAR and SWOT analysis stage, the development stage, the role enhancement stage, the support and development stage of appropriate technology, coordination and synergy between actors, as well as evaluation and supervision in improving the quality of the green environment and public awareness of development of the green city concept in Malang City.

Exploring Design Interventions to Enhance Intergenerational Sharing: An Importance–Performance Analysis of Public Spaces in Changsha, China

Intergenerational sharing promotes social cohesion within communities by encouraging dialogue and understanding across different age groups. Nevertheless, existing research has inadequately delved into the human experiences and meaning-making processes that underpin intergenerational sharing, leading to a limited grasp of effective design intervention strategies in community spaces. This study aimed to explore the environmental and social factors influencing intergenerational interactions in community public spaces in Changsha, China, addressing two primary questions: (1) What environmental factors shape intergenerational sharing behaviors? (2) What design strategies can enhance intergenerational sharing in community public spaces? This research employed a mixed-methods approach, including qualitative observation and quantitative importance–performance analysis (IPA) through a survey of 212 residents, to investigate the intergenerational sharing needs of residents. To begin with, the study conducted a detailed analysis of the characteristics and variations in Changsha’s community public spaces. The finding revealed notable disparities in intergenerational sharing behaviors among three types of community spaces: traditional, commercial housing, and integrated neighborhoods. Through environmental behavior observation and IPA, key environmental factors influencing intergenerational sharing behaviors were identified, emphasizing areas for improvement. Based on these findings, the study proposed a design framework consisting of community planning and design, spatial layout and facility construction, and community management, with nine targeted strategies to optimize environmental factors for intergenerational sharing to cater to the unique characteristics of different community types. These findings can deepen our understanding of intergenerational sharing mechanisms and offer practical recommendations for fostering stronger interactions, providing valuable insights for future community public space design.

Pelatihan Manajemen Sampah Berbasis Rumah Tangga melalui Penerapan Mini Komposter pada Kelompok PKK di Bantul

In 2023, the waste production in D.I. Yogyakarta Province reached 440,267.76 tons per year, with household waste contributing the largest portion at 44.3% of the total. The continuous rise in waste is attributed to the increasing population and declining quality of life. Additionally, the local community's lack of awareness about effective waste management, such as composting food waste, exacerbates the problem, making it difficult for them to handle the waste they generate. This initiative aimed to educate the Padukuhan Sawit community, particularly RT.002, on household-based waste management practices. It included discussions and hands-on training on how to use mini composters. The methodology involved a field survey, discussions with community leaders, preparation and planning, socialization, distribution of mini composters, and an evaluation and demonstration of the proper use of mini composters. The program, conducted over two sessions, garnered significant enthusiasm from the participants. Out of the 10 mini composters distributed, only 4 were used independently. The main barrier preventing wider adoption was the fear of failure, such as unpleasant odors or other technical issues. Therefore, there is a need for strategic follow-up and mentoring to ensure the sustainability of the initiative. Such as monitoring each representative of the dasa wisma and distributing spare EM4 fluid to facilitate waste management for other residents.

Where Preservation Meets Land Use Regulation: Historic Districts in Los Angeles

Problem, research strategy, and findings Local historic districts function as a zoning overlay regulating the urban form, yet limited empirical analysis has considered how historic districts may interact with broader land use regulations. We conducted a comparative case study of the designation process in two Los Angeles (CA) neighborhoods, combining archival research and building permit data analysis. We examined land use regulations, development patterns, and the arguments of supporters and opponents to understand the intended purposes of the historic districts and the factors that contributed to either adoption or withdrawal. We found interactions between historic districts and other land use and zoning regulations substantially shaped the designation process and outcome. The designation process also has the potential to foster diverse community coalitions organized around a wide range of concerns, from anti-development to anti-displacement. Because our analysis focused on comparing two neighborhoods in Los Angeles, different factors could shape designation processes in other localized contexts. Still, we have identified lessons with transferability to planning in other cities. Takeaway for practice Planners should more explicitly attend to the potential conflicts between neighborhood-level historic district designation versus broader housing density and affordability goals. We recommend changes to the historic preservation plan-making process that would include explicit considerations of how the designation could affect housing production and rental affordability to more tightly link to the housing element of the general plan and relevant community plans. Incorporating these considerations into the historic district designation process would allow for better balancing of preservation and development goals.

Sustainable rural settlement development in Vietnam: what lessons are gained from ethnic minority communities?

ABSTRACT Coming into the general development process of urban areas, rural settlements gradually lose their distinctive character in the cultural and spatial organization of a community. Not only that, this approach affects how the local communities change their lifestyle and livelihood and increases unsustainable development that is clearly seen through community poverty and the gradual depletion of natural resources. This research investigated local environments and efforts by local communities to adapt to new living environments. Using qualitative and quantitative research methodologies from macro to micro levels, this research discovered two settlements of the Katu ethnic group in Quang Nam province. The research findings indicated that current approaches to community planning and development are ineffective in the sustainable development of the local community; in contrast, these approaches trigger adverse changes in the cultural and biological diversity in the region. This research proposed a theoretical framework that helps the local community achieve sustainable development and the conservation of natural and cultural resources through four principal dimensions: (1) livelihoods, (2) built environments, (3) natural environments, and (4) cultural traditions. This research expanded and detailed the drivers of change in biocultural diversity theory, integrating biocultural diversity into the sustainable development of the rural community. In addition, this research showed that the sustainable development of the rural community needs to be based on respect towards the close relationship between traditional knowledge/indigenous wisdom and the natural environment. The research holds great significance in perfecting the theoretical framework of community planning, serving as a basis for proposing rural development and management policies as well as enhancing the identification of local communities, especially ethnic minority groups.

Spatial capability and A qualitative study of happiness in Mexico City and San José

Abstract This qualitative study focuses on how individuals living in two that rank highest in the happiness index develop and sustain their happiness research employs quantitative methods to compare national recent studies advocate for a contextual and process-focused This research emphasises the spatial aspects of happiness and hance it, contributing to a deeper understanding of happiness in The cases are Mexico City, Mexico and San José, Costa Rica, which high in happiness despite their low GDP. A total of 16 in-depth out online with participants living in each of the case study sites. that interviewees’ happiness is shaped by context-specific factors curity, and housing. The COVID-19 pandemic, which restricted housing quality, highlighted barriers to spatial capability. The viduals developed happiness strategies and community participation satisfaction and happiness capability. Conformity-driven happiness phenomenon, essential to life satisfaction. The paper contributes standing of happiness in different environments and people’s happiness. Highlights for public administration, management and planning: Influence of Environmental and Social Factors on Happiness: For tration and urban planning, this study highlights how basic life as creating and maintaining environments, enhance residents’ piness. Role of Spatial Capability in Happiness: For public policy and concept of spatial capability emphasises the need to improve design and transportation to support citizens’ overall happiness Impact of Social Support and Conformity on Well-being: For public and community planning, fostering strong social networks and health initiatives can be vital in promoting residents’ happiness being. Implications for Public Policy and Urban Planning: The findings policies should aim to enhance people’s capabilities by providing efficient mobility, and support for social groups. This approach happier, more sustainable communities.

Administrative and Topographic Map of Kelurahan to Support Land Efficiency and Flood Mitigation

Purpose: The community service activity by the University of Bengkulu Geophysics and Physics Team aimed to assist the community of Kandang Limun, Bengkulu City, by developing maps that display area boundaries and topographical elevations. The maps were intended to serve as easily accessible sources of information for the local community and to aid in planning and development efforts.Method: The methodology involved conducting a preliminary survey, collecting data, preparing software tools, and creating both boundary and topographic maps. A questionnaire was distributed to assess community satisfaction with the project.Practical Applications: The maps provide valuable information for local government and residents, serving as a resource for defining area boundaries and understanding topographical features. These maps are particularly useful for urban planning, land use, and community development initiatives.Conclusion: The creation and public display of administrative and topographical maps in the Kelurahan office have improved access to essential geographical information. This initiative supports better community planning and contributes to the informed development of the area, benefiting both the local government and residents.

Effect of Contraventions of Building Regulations and Informal Land Subdivision on the Quality of Built Environment in Enugu State, Nigeria

The study examined the effect of contraventions of building regulations and informal land subdivision on the quality of built environment in Enugu State. The study adopted survey design and was carried out in Enugu State, Nigeria. The population for the study was 88 respondents which comprised 36 building technology lecturers and 52 building technology lab technologists from the Department of Building Technology in Enugu State University of Technology and the Department of Industrial Technical Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka respectively. Due to the manageable size of the population, no sampling was done as the entire population was used as the sample of the study. The instrument for data collection was a 37-item structured questionnaire which was validated by 3 experts. A total of 88 copies of the instrument were administered to the respondents by the researchers with the help of 2 research assistants. The instrument was analyzed using weighted mean and standard deviation while the hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance, using t-test statistics. The study found that contraventions of building regulations and informal land subdivisions in Enugu State have greatly affected the built environment negatively. The study recommends that the local authorities in Enugu State should create awareness campaigns on community planning which will be strengthened during plan implementations by capacitating the local leaders in order to reserve and maintain spaces for construction projects and agriculture based livelihood activities.

Leveraging GIS for sustainable tourism development: A comprehensive spatial approach

Abstract. This paper explores the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as a pivotal tool in the spatial analysis and sustainable development of tourism. By mapping tourism resources, analyzing visitor flows, and planning for accessibility and infrastructure, GIS enables a nuanced understanding and management of tourism's spatial dynamics. We delve into the innovative use of GIS for personalized itinerary planning, augmented reality experiences, safety, risk management, environmental impact assessments, resource management, conservation, stakeholder engagement, and community planning. Through a series of methodical processes, GIS facilitates the visualization of natural and cultural attractions, optimizes visitor experiences, and ensures the sustainability of tourism development. The integration of spatial data with advanced analytical tools supports the creation of dynamic, inclusive, and environmentally responsible tourism strategies. This paper highlights the critical role of GIS in shaping future tourism practices, underlining the importance of spatial analysis in fostering a balanced approach to tourism that benefits local communities, preserves cultural heritage, and minimizes ecological footprints.

NASA’s astrophysics cross-observatory science support (ACROSS) initiative: enabling time-domain and multimessenger astrophysics

The Astro2020 Decadal Survey recommended an investment in Time-Domain and Multimessenger Astrophysics (TDAMM) as the top-priority sustaining activity in space for the coming decade. One aspect of NASA’s response to this recommendation is a pilot project, the Astrophysics Cross-Observatory Science Support (ACROSS) initiative, designed to provide support to both missions and observers as they pursue TDAMM science. Here, we present our observations of needs in the community and initial plans for ACROSS activities, including services to facilitate and improve cross-mission follow-up planning and execution; a multimessenger web portal with links to existing mission resources, community tools, and information targeted for TDAMM general observers; development of “Smart target-of-opportunity submission page” proof-of-concepts; and ongoing development of a potential TDAMM general observing competitive grant solicitation. As the ACROSS pilot phase begins, we invite discussion of our plans with both missions and observers to better understand their needs and concerns.

Psychosocial characteristics of suicide deaths by regional types in Korea: An analysis based on population inflow and outflow.

This study aims to investigate the psychosocial characteristics of suicide deaths in Korea according to population inflow and outflow, and to identify high-risk suicide groups by regional type in order to establish tailored suicide prevention plans for each region. The analysis included 4193 suicide deaths from four regional types in Korea. The data source was a comprehensive survey of suicide deaths through police investigation records from the Korean government. The analysis involved collecting demographic variables, suicide-related variables, and stress variables at the time of death for suicide deaths in each region and conducting cross-analysis and multinomial logistic regression analysis. Across all regions, factors such as male gender, unemployment, hanging in one's own home, and mental health problems were prevalent. However, in population-inflow urban areas, early-middle age and economic problems were higher, in population-outflow urban areas, late-middle age and economic problems were more prominent. Additionally, in both inflow and outflow rural areas, there was a relatively higher proportion of old age and physical health problems. This study is significant for confirming common and specific factors influencing suicide in each region, and for proposing considerations when formulating tailored suicide prevention plans for local communities.

What Makes a Liveable Neighborhood? Role of Socio-Demographic, Dwelling, and Environmental Factors and Participation in Finnish Urban and Suburban Areas.

Quality of residential area, or neighborhood, is one determinant of overall quality of life and associated with health and health behavior. Ensuring that urban and suburban neighborhoods remain liveable and comfortable to reside in is a challenge amidst growing urbanization. Neighborhood quality has been associated with socio-demographic, dwelling-related, and subjective and objective neighborhood factors. However, only a few studies have additionally included participation in neighborhood decision-making and examined whether these associations are stronger among residents who are more settled in the neighborhood. We examined whether subjectively and objectively measured environmental factors and participation are associated with perception of neighborhood liveability and possible effect moderators. We analyzed survey data collected in 2021 among adults (aged 18-97) living in suburbs and urban centers in five Finnish cities (n = 2057; response rate 34%) with logistic regression models. Almost 80% of the respondents perceived their neighborhood as liveable or very liveable. The following factors were most strongly associated with perceiving the neighborhood as liveable: low area-level socioeconomic deprivation; central urban zone; green view from home; satisfaction with neighborhood safety, green areas, blue areas, and maintenance of traffic routes; and good or very good possibilities to influence decisions regarding the neighborhood. Only a few interactions between indicators of being more settled in the neighborhood (e.g., age group and dwelling ownership) modified these associations. In all, our study suggests that to maintain liveability, urban or community planning should consider local residents' favorable perceptions of safety, recreational areas, and engagement in decision-making.

Roles of Women Engagement in Managing WASH Projects in Rural Areas: A Case Study of Mufindi District, Tanzania

Women’s participation in managing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) projects is crucial for the sustainability and success of these initiatives, yet remains significantly limited, particularly in rural areas. This cross-sectional study, conducted with 163 participants, explores the challenges and opportunities surrounding women’s roles in WASH project management, focusing on their participation, the influence of cultural practices, and the availability of capacity-building programs to support women's leadership. Findings show that while women engage in community outreach and planning, their leadership and decision-making roles are restricted by traditional gender roles and patriarchal norms. A lack of training programs further limits their leadership potential. Additionally, the study highlights a severe shortage of training programs aimed at empowering women to assume leadership roles in WASH management, particularly in rural areas where access to these resources is most limited. The study recommends gender-sensitive policies and expanded training initiatives to promote women’s inclusion and leadership in WASH management, essential for achieving sustainable outcomes.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A CONTINGENCY PLAN

The dissertation titled “The Importance of a Contingency Plan: For the Residents of Vila Bom Jesus in the Municipality of Canaã dos Carajás-PA in Cases of Dam Rupture” addresses the urgent need for an effective contingency plan for this vulnerable community. The social relevance of the topic is unquestionable, given the increasing incidence of natural and technological disasters. The Brumadinho tragedy in 2019 highlighted the devastating consequences of dam failures, underscoring the importance of preventive measures. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of current contingency plans and propose recommendations to improve the preparedness and resilience of Vila Bom Jesus residents. Specific objectives include analyzing the structure of existing plans, assessing community perception, and proposing strategies for continuous improvement. The methodology used is based on a literature review, with strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the relevance and quality of the analyzed articles. The thematic analysis of the data facilitates the identification of patterns and critical elements for the development of effective plans. The results reveal that although contingency plans exist, the lack of knowledge and adequate preparation among residents compromises their effectiveness. Anderson Vasconcellos Amaral’s research highlights the transformation of Canaã dos Carajás landscapes due to mining and agriculture, and the social and environmental implications of these activities. The dissertation concludes that contingency plans need to be continuously reviewed and updated, incorporating new information and best practices. The contributions of this study are significant for the protection of vulnerable communities, providing practical guidelines that can be adapted to different contexts.

Determinants of acute psychiatric inpatient length of stay in Ireland.

Ireland has had an historic over-reliance on inpatient mental health care accompanied by poorly resourced community provision. There has been an increasing policy focus on provision of mental health care in the community to facilitate diversion from, or shorten stays in, inpatient care. However, little is known about the determinants of psychiatric inpatient length of stay (LOS) to allow for the targeting of community services. To use a large cross-sectional national dataset to examine the determinants of psychiatric inpatient LOS in the Irish context. Using information on 60,607 discharges from adult acute psychiatric units in Ireland between 2015 and 2019, the study employs both descriptive and regression analysis. Using negative binomial regression models, we control for patient demographic, socioeconomic, and clinical characteristics. In addition, as LOS may be related to provision of non-acute services in the patient area of residence, the analysis also controls for aspects of community service provision. The study finds that longer LOS is associated with older age, being female, and having an involuntary admission. Clinical diagnosis significantly impacts LOS, with diagnoses such as schizophrenia being associated with longer LOS. There is also significant variation in LOS across region of residence, with discharges from some regions staying up to 5days longer. The regional variation observed in inpatient LOS supports the assumption that increased provision of community services diverts or reduces the quantum of care required in inpatient settings. However, without substantive improvement in the community data collected and reported, future planning of mental health services, both community and inpatient, will be substantially curtailed.

Using habitus and ethnic identity theory to investigate the decision-making of Canadian Modern Orthodox young people

ABSTRACT Students’ access to higher education is significantly shaped by the cultural and social capital they hold and aspire to gain. This study examines Canadian Modern Orthodox high school graduates pursuing higher education, exploring the factors that influence their choices. By framing Canadian Modern Orthodox Judaism as an ethnic minority identity, the research reveals how this identity shapes the decision-making process of young adults. The study integrates Bourdieu’s concept of habitus and Phinney’s theory of ethnic identity to understand how students in a close-knit community plan their futures, balancing considerations of reputation, marriage, and career. Based on eight years of teaching at a Modern Orthodox high school in Southern Ontario, the study uses institutional ethnography to identify two key pathways: Pathway 1 involves students taking a gap year in Israel, postponing their minority status on North American campuses, while Pathway 2 sees students entering directly into secular universities, where they become ethnic minorities for the first time. The paper also explores how students manage their post-secondary experiences and the impact on their cultural and social capital. Those who choose a gap year in Israel often accumulate greater cultural and social capital within their community compared to those who enter university directly.