Urban Sustainable Development Goal Research Articles

Creating and sustaining urban green spaces in Africa under phenomenal urbanisation: residents’ perspectives on home gardens in Wa, Ghana

Attaining the goals of the New Urban Agenda and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, which aims for sustainable, inclusive, and resilient cities, necessitates accelerated efforts to green urban environments. While keeping home gardens is not new, it offers a unique potential as a deliberate strategy for urban greening in Africa. However, Ghana has limited empirical evidence regarding the motivations, challenges, and constraints of keeping domestic gardens, which is essential for informing urban greenery policy. This study addresses this knowledge gap by employing the self-determination theory and conducting an exploratory cross-sectional survey with 285 structured questionnaires administered to residents in seven rapidly growing neighbourhoods in Wa, Ghana. The results reveal that 56% of respondents had gardens within their properties, with beautification (56.1%) and food production (52.3%) being the primary motivations. Vegetables (46.7%) and trees (30.2%) were the most commonly cultivated plants. Conversely, limited space (49%) and busy schedules (34%) were identified as the main barriers to home gardening. The findings indicate that the motivation for owning gardens aligns with the autonomy need of the self-determination theory. In contrast, the relationship need, which correlates with environmental motivations, was notably low among residents. The study recommends that local authorities, civil society organisations, and neighbourhood planning committees implement aggressive sensitisation and education campaigns to promote the environmental benefits of domestic gardening.

Urban Sustainability in the Age of Digital Nomads - Diverse Group Impacts

Digital nomads are a whole new group of people empowered by digital information technology, and although they have a subtle impact on urban change, little attention has been paid to the impact on different urban groups with the influx of digital nomads. The aim of this paper is to examine how the increase in the number of digital nomads in recent years has affected different urban groups in the context of the broader goal of sustainable urban development. The case study comes from the Digital Nomad Commune in Anji, China, and through the literature research method, the urban groups are divided into: digital nomads, profit-driven locals and negatively affected locals, analyzing the various phenomena presented by different groups of people, such as the promotion of local economic development, cultural exchange and cultural diversity by the emergence of digital nomads, the pressure on the price of goods in the neighbouring towns and the irreversible negative impacts on the ecological environment, as well as proposing the strategies for the future construction of the city. It suggests how to build digital nomad-friendly cities from the economic, ecological and social perspectives.

Artistic Interventions in Urban Renewal: Exploring the Social Impact and Contribution of Public Art to Sustainable Urban Development Goals

The aim of this study was to explore the multiple roles of public art in urban renewal and sustainable development goals, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, with an emphasis on community engagement and the application of theoretical frameworks. Through a detailed analysis of public art projects in Teruel, Spain, and Chengdu, China, this study shows how public art plays an important role in enhancing cultural values, promoting social inclusion, and driving economic growth. Qualitative methods such as interviews and content analysis were used to gain in-depth insights into the views and experiences of artists, urban planners, policymakers, and community members. At the same time, quantitative methods such as questionnaires and spatial analysis were used to assess the specific impacts of public art on urban beautification, social inclusion, and economic growth.

Multi-Channel Stormwater Ponds: A Sustainable Approach to Urban Flood Resilience

Flood-prone cities depend on stormwater ponds, but current designs with single, shallow channels limit storage. This paper proposes a new approach: using multiple channels to create smaller sections on the pond floor. Modeling shows this significantly increases storage for floods without needing a bigger pond. It also improves water flow and reduces stagnant areas. Finally, the paper explores practicalities for building these ponds, making them a valuable tool for better urban water management without needing more land or changing the pond’s height. These multi-channel ponds are particularly beneficial for frequent smaller storms by distributing water flow, reducing its speed, and allowing more time for sediment to settle, leading to improved water quality. Sustainable solutions are essential for safeguarding the future. In this research, sustainability plays a pivotal role, as the multi-channel stormwater pond design provides an innovative approach to improving flood management without the need for extra land or resources, thus supporting the goals of sustainable urban development.

CONSTRUCTION MEDIATION: GLOBAL EXPERIENCE FOR ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION IN THE MODERNISATION OF MULTI-APARTMENT RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS

Modernisation of multi-apartment buildings is one of the steps towards achieving the goals of sustainable urban development. Modernisation of buildings and construction in general causes many disputes between the condominium, co-owners and other stakeholders, especially approval and financial issues. Such disputes are usually interpersonal rather than legal or legislative. In this regard, litigation is impractical or not at all within the competence of the courts. Modernisation, as an architectural, engineering, constructing and the process of urban development in general, is not an obligation and is a manifestation of desire of communities and a goal of the country, therefore the dispute resolution on this issue requires a special and innovative approach. Mediation is almost the only one way to resolve disputes between condominiums and co-owners on issues of modernisation and further operation and maintenance. If for many countries in the world construction mediation, although a relatively new concept, is already widely used in practice, then in Ukraine this method of dispute resolution is little known and not widespread. This method has proven its effectiveness in practice, because it is quick and simple in contrast to the litigation, which can suspend or delay construction for a very long time. Mediation helps parties reach agreement on any issue. Modernisation is an important and necessary step, at the same time controversial and difficult, due to the need for co-financing of the project by the co-owners of the house. Disputes between the parties are not only obstacles for project implementation and development but also endangers the achievement of achieving the goals of urban sustainable development. The larger project the more controversial issues arise that need to be resolved: not only financial, coordination and legislation but also compliance of norms and rules of non-government organisations or foundations that finance the program. Implementation of global mediation experience in modernisation and urban planning will help to more effectively and easily develop construction processes and dispute resolution between stakeholders of the project. The research and implementation of this issue is an important step on the way to improving the processes of modernisation of multi-apartment building, construction and urban planning.

A framework for achieving urban sustainable development goals (SDGs): Evaluation and interaction

Sustainable development is a complex system involving multiple dimensions of society, economy, resources and environment. It is of great significance to evaluate the sustainable development level and explore the interactions among sustainable development goals (SDGs) for the promotion of sustainability. In present study, a localized urban sustainable development evaluation framework was first proposed. Then, taking Shandong Province as an example, the spatiotemporal variations and goal evenness of sustainability were investigated. Finally, synergies and trade-offs between SDGs were revealed. The results showed that the sustainable development level has improved slightly from 2011 to 2020 in Shandong Province, exhibiting a dual-core pattern with Jinan and Qingdao. Shandong Province performed relatively well in SDG 1 (no poverty), SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), and SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities). The unevenness existed in sustainable development, indicating that the development process varied from one goal to another and there were obvious differences among cities for the same goal. Relatively weak synergies and trade-offs relationships were mainly observed between SDGs, and the interactions were in a changing state. Analyzing the sustainable development level from multiple perspectives and promoting multi-goal coordinated development are vital for achieving urban sustainable development.

Urban sustainable development goals and ecosystem services: Pathways to achieving coordination

It has been widely recognized that progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) must be better harmonized with Ecosystem Services (ESs) to tackle global challenges. In China, the National Key Ecological Function Areas (NKEFAs) were set up as one of the ecological fiscal transfer projects. Despite its significant influences on the SDGs-ESs nexus, there is a lack of empirical studies on the effects and mechanisms of policy. In response, this study provides a synthesized framework that incorporates the coupling coordination degree between the Urban Sustainable Development Goals (USDGs) and Ecosystem Services Scores (ESSs), empirically verifies the policy effect using the difference-in-differences model, and then further investigates the mechanisms of government action to coordinate urban SDGs and ESs. The results show that: (1) The coupling coordination degree between USDGs and ESSs varies significantly across different regions but steadily increases over time, with a faster increasing rate of coordination degree growth in NKEEFAs pilot cities compared to non-pilot cities. (2) The policy has demonstrated benefits in coordinating USDGs and ESSs with a coefficient of 0.005. In detail, the policy enhances ESSs but concurrently exerts a negative influence on USDGs, with coefficients are 0.008 and −0.004 respectively, suggesting an uneven distribution of the policy's impacts. (3) The study unveils the 'technological innovation effect' and the 'industrial agglomeration effect' as crucial mediating pathways for policy effect, laying a solid foundation for USDGs and ESSs coordination. In total, the study highlights the critical need to account for regional development disparities and adequate funding in ecological protection policies to ensure fairness and effectiveness from a central decision-making standpoint. It recommends enhancing transparency in fiscal expenditures and fostering regional joint coordination to address local government challenges. These insights from this study can offer valuable guidance for policymakers to refine policy implementation and promote the coordination of regional ESs and SDGs.

PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS FOR SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT: LESSONS FROM INDONESIAN CITIES

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have become an important strategy in sustainable urban development in Indonesia, especially amidst limited local government resources and challenges posed by rapid urbanization. While the private sector has great potential to provide financing and innovation, the success of PPPs depends largely on effective coordination between the public and private sectors. The dynamics of this relationship often face complex challenges, including equitable management of risks and benefits. This study aims to explore the factors that influence the success of PPPs in the context of sustainable urban development in Indonesia. This study uses a qualitative approach, with data obtained from various relevant previous studies and research. The collected data are systematically processed to find new patterns and insights related to PPPs. The results of this study indicate that strengthening the institutional capacity of local governments and increasing transparency and accountability are key to the success of PPPs. Private sector involvement not only provides financial resources but also brings significant innovation and efficiency. Inclusive collaboration, involving local communities and stakeholders, has proven to be essential to ensure the relevance and sustainability of PPP projects. In addition, supportive and adaptive policies to local conditions are needed to create a conducive environment for these partnerships. With the adoption of a comprehensive strategy, PPP can be an effective tool to achieve sustainable urban development goals in Indonesia.

Managing Green and Sustainable Technologies: Climate-Informed Corrosion Prediction for Steel Structures

The unpredictability of atmospheric circumstances is one of the major elements that contribute to the capability to anticipate the corrosion growth in metal structures over time accurately. Climate shifts can potentially modify the long-term attributes of these factors throughout the operational life of metal structures, both those currently in existence and those newly developed. The impact of climate irregularity on the probabilistic nature of atmospheric variables, which significantly impact corrosion situations, can add intricacy to corrosion predictions in these constructions. This project presents an incorporated framework to quantify the impact of climate alteration on the corrosion rates of steel structures in Jordan. It considers the changes in environmental conditions, specifically temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed, and their impacts on atmospheric corrosion. Global Climate Models are employed to assess the long-term effects of climate transformation on these environmental circumstances. An analytical model for anticipating corrosion rate is integrated with climate transformation models to predict modifications in the corrosion rates of steel parts relative to historical situations. This project also examines the impact of climate transformation on the fluctuations of these climatic parameters and offers a contrast between historical data and projected conditions across the country. The findings indicate a significant increase in corrosion rates across Jordan, which calls for localized green building codes and standards to ensure that future infrastructure is sustainable and capable of withstanding the new climatic norms. This approach addresses the immediate challenges posed by climate change and contributes to the broader goals of sustainable urban development and managing green technology adoption in Jordan. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-08-016 Full Text: PDF

Literary Analysis of the Connection between Urban Innovations and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Literary Analysis of the Connection between Urban Innovations and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Urbanization and Its Environmental Impact on Rangareddy's Peri-Urban Landscape: Insights from Secondary Data

This study investigates the dynamics of urbanization and its environmental implications in peri-urban areas of Rangareddy, focusing on key regions including Shamshabad, Manikonda, Gachibowli, and Shadnagar over the past two decades. Through a comprehensive analysis of land use changes, environmental assessments, socio-economic dynamics, and sustainability challenges, the research highlights significant transformations driven by rapid urban expansion. The findings reveal a notable shift in land use patterns characterized by a substantial increase in residential and commercial developments, leading to a decline in agricultural lands and natural ecosystems. This urban sprawl is fueled by population growth, economic activities, and infrastructural developments, reflecting broader urbanization trends observed across Indian cities. Environmental assessments underscore critical challenges associated with urban growth, including deteriorating air and water quality attributed to increased industrial activities and vehicular emissions. The reduction in green spaces exacerbates environmental concerns such as heat island effects and biodiversity loss, necessitating urgent interventions to integrate sustainable land management practices into urban planning strategies. Demographic shifts in peri-urban Rangareddy reveal accelerated population growth rates, surpassing national averages. While urbanization has brought enhanced access to amenities and economic opportunities, it has also exacerbated socio-economic disparities among residents. Addressing these disparities requires inclusive development strategies that ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities, fostering social cohesion and community resilience. The study identifies critical sustainability challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, water scarcity, and inefficient waste management systems. These challenges underscore the imperative for effective policy interventions and governance frameworks aimed at promoting environmental conservation and enhancing urban resilience. Policy recommendations emphasize the need for integrated urban planning approaches that prioritize green infrastructure development, pollution control measures, and community engagement initiatives. Looking forward, future research should focus on longitudinal studies to monitor urbanization trends and evaluate the effectiveness of policy interventions in mitigating environmental impacts and enhancing socio-economic conditions in peri-urban areas. Long-term strategies should emphasize adaptive governance mechanisms, stakeholder engagement, and capacity building to support sustainable urban development goals.

Defining Sustainable Placemaking in Spatial Planning: Lessons from a South African Case Study

This study explores the concept of sustainable placemaking from a spatial planning perspective, focusing on Marabastad, a township in South Africa. Drawing on the New Urban Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals, this research seeks to understand how placemaking can contribute to the creation of liveable, resilient, and sustainable human settlements. Through a review of the placemaking literature and a case study, this study examines the evolution of placemaking towards sustainability and its application in diverse cultural, geographic, and socio-economic contexts. The findings reveal the importance of creating and enhancing places that are environmentally responsible, socially inclusive, economically viable, and culturally meaningful. The Marabastad case study illustrates the challenges and possibilities of sustainable placemaking in a multicultural and urbanising community. Economic interventions (e.g., tourism promotion and community markets), social interventions (e.g., education and community events), and environmental interventions (e.g., infrastructure upgrades and preservation of cultural sites) are proposed to address the complex challenges faced by Marabastad. This study emphasises the role of spatial planners in advancing theories and practises of sustainable placemaking, highlighting the need for context-specific approaches to promote inclusive and resilient urban environments.

EFFICIENCY OF SOLAR THERMAL COLLECTORS ON STUDENT DORMITORY BUILDING IN THE UNIVERSITY CITY IN BANJA LUKA

<p>To achieve sustainable urban development goals, facilities must promote improved living conditions, reduce energy consumption, and preserve the environment. The Nikola Tesla student dormitory in Banja Luka's University City, a public landscape architecture area, meets these standards with its simple design, rational use of space, and moderate architectural expression. This study analyzes energy consumption in the 4th pavilion of the Nikola Tesla student dormitory in Banja Luka from 2018-2023. Solar thermal energy accounted for 4.63% of the total delivered energy. The paper highlights the importance of monitoring energy consumption over time.</p>

Culturally-informed for designing motorcycle fire rescue: Empirical study in developing country

Fire must be responded to quickly and effectively. Difficulties in reaching the fire location may arise due to high traffic. Motorcycle fire rescue can be an alternative to first aid in challenging areas. However, these areas, characterized by diverse cultural backgrounds, require careful consideration. Culture significantly impacts how such rescue systems are perceived, accepted, and utilized. This study delves into the efficiency and implementation of motorcycle fire rescue systems across different contexts, focusing on their alignment with regional cultural norms. Objectives include assessing operational challenges, identifying cultural implications, proposing culturally sensitive design recommendations, evaluating acceptance and effectiveness, and suggesting strategies and policy enhancements to strengthen emergency response capabilities. A preliminary trial was conducted to validate the survey instrument, followed by statistical analysis such as structural equation modeling, confirmatory factor analysis, and satisfaction level assessments. Findings highlight how cultural attitudes shape design preferences, the need for adaptable approaches to overcome operational hurdles, and the importance of adhering to culturally relevant design principles for system efficacy. Field tests also suggest potential improvements in emergency response effectiveness. Recognizing cultural considerations is essential in designing motorcycle fire rescue systems to enhance emergency response in developing nations. Furthermore, aligned with sustainable urban development goals, this research provides policymakers with valuable insights and practical approaches for engaging stakeholders. Equipping designers with information to address motorcycle fire incidents using environmentally friendly solutions underscores the importance of crafting emergency response plans sensitive to cultural differences across diverse landscapes.

Towards a socially sustainable built environment: a comparative assessment of urban neighbourhoods in Istanbul

PurposeIntegrating and advancing social sustainability is foundational to achieving the urban sustainable development goals. Given the rapid transformation of cities in the Mediterranean region, this study sought to assess residents' evaluation of social sustainability in two socio-spatially diverse neighbourhoods of metropolitan Istanbul.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire survey, adapted from an empirically well-tested and robust social sustainability framework, was used to collect data from 197 residents from Balat and Rasimpasa neighbourhoods in Metropolitan Istanbul. The study then employed quantitative analytical techniques such as independent sample t-tests and Pearson correlation to analyse the sample data.FindingsIn both neighbourhoods, accessibility and participation were ranked the highest and lowest dimensions of social sustainability, respectively. However, the t-test analysis revealed a statistically significant difference between the two neighbourhoods regarding social networking and interaction, safety and security and participation. The differences align with emerging studies on urban social sustainability in the Mediterranean and European cities that when considered from urban spatial contexts, significant differences emerge from a social network and safety perspective.Practical implicationsOur study invites urban planners and policy makers attention to and emphasise on lowly evaluated social sustainability dimensions such as participation in their efforts to promote sustainable urban development at the neighbourhood level. We reason that opening the decision-making process to include diverse voices and experiences of residents through participatory workshops might offer opportunities for context-specific, citizen-led urban planning and design strategies that are socially sustainable.Originality/valuePrevious studies have not fully accounted for how various socio-spatial contexts at the neighbourhood level shape differential evaluation of social sustainability. This paper extends the emerging work on urban social sustainability by situating residents’ evaluation of social sustainability indicators across two unique neighbourhoods with gridded and organic spatial characteristics in Istanbul. This paper is an important addition to ongoing work on how spatial organisation of neighbourhoods can influence experiences of social sustainability from an urban planning and design perspective.

SMART SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT FOR THE NEW CAPITAL CITY OF INDONESIA

It is critical to do research on the concept of Smart Sustainable Urban Development and its implementation. This is primarily important to support the urban future and urban governance in Nusantara Capital City, Indonesia, and the relation to the concept of urban sustainability and smart city. This research is aimed to analyse the implementation of the smart sustainable urban development concept to support the urban future through the New Urban Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals and urban governance in Nusantara Capital City. The data were obtained by conducting in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGD) with the policy stakeholders and agencies relevant to the development plan for Nusantara Capital City and field surveys in the form of observations as well. The results show that the urban future from the national government is envisaged through six domain services encapsulating the sustainability and smart city elements. In the regional and local level, challenges are met including the environmental and social impact but through government collaboration and devising Information and Communication Technology, the authority has been able to design the solution. Sustainability, ICT, smart city, and urban governance constitute critical elements in the process of urban development, especially for the development of a new capital city.

A Path towards Sustainable Neighbourhood: A Comparative Analysis of Maitama and Garki Districts in Abuja, Nigeria

This research conducts a comparative analysis of sustainability practices in the Maitama and Garki Districts of Abuja, Nigeria, with a specific emphasis on environmental, social, and economic dimensions. The goal of sustainable urban development is to minimize the adverse effects on the environment, foster social fairness, and encourage the local economy. The key ideas included in this context are energy efficiency, affordable housing, green infrastructure, and community participation. The Maitama District places importance on the environment, community, and economics, but Garki has difficulties in waste management, pollution, and the availability of clean water and sanitation. Both districts strive to cultivate inclusive communities, however, Maitama encounters obstacles in waste management and pollution, and Garki confronts environmental concerns such as insufficient green areas and little community engagement.

Quality Assessment of Food Provided at Indira Canteen in Bangalore

The government of Karnataka in India introduced the Indira Canteen program, a significant initiative focused on tackling food security issues and delivering affordable and healthy meals to urban inhabitants. Indira Canteen program contributes to the broader goal of sustainable urban development by addressing the interconnected challenges of poverty, malnutrition, and inequality. This research paper offers a thorough evaluation of the food quality served at Indira Canteen establishments in Bangalore. Employing a multi- pronged research approach that encompasses nutritional analysis, hygiene assessment, taste appraisal, and surveys to gauge customer contentment, the study scrutinizes how well the program fulfills its aims and safeguards the welfare of its clientele. The data reveals that 27% of the respondents visit Indira Canteen on a daily basis, 37% of the respondents choose Indira Canteen because of its affordable prices, and 32% of the respondents also prefer the good quality of food provided by the Indira Canteen.

The Role of ICT Initiatives in Enhancing Urban Agriculture: A Case Study of Bengaluru Smart City

Urban agriculture is gaining significance in the sustainable development of rapidly growing cities like Bengaluru, with a particular emphasis on leveraging Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for its enhancement. This paper investigates how ICT initiatives can bolster the productivity, sustainability, and inclusivity of urban agriculture in Bengaluru. Employing a qualitative research design, the study draws upon various data sources, including a series of interviews with key stakeholders, extensive field observations, and a comprehensive review of pertinent literature. Our findings underscore the transformative potential of ICT initiatives in addressing key challenges encountered in urban agriculture in Bengaluru, such as limited access to information, inadequate market linkages, and constrained financial resources. Specifically, we highlight ICT's role in optimizing crop management practices, fostering stronger market connections, facilitating financial access, and promoting social inclusivity within urban agricultural systems. Furthermore, this paper discusses the implications of these findings for policymakers and practitioners in Bengaluru and offers insights that extend to urban agricultural contexts beyond this region. By emphasizing the potential of ICT to revolutionize urban agriculture, this study contributes to the broader goals of sustainable urban development. Suggestions for future research directions in this domain are also discussed.

Nexus between Urban Circular Economies and Sustainable Development Goals: A Systematic Literature Review

Since the definition and publication of the 2030 Agenda in 2015, addressing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has been pivotal in guiding carbon neutrality and sustainable solutions in urban development. Despite the passage of nine years, tangible successes in achieving the SDGs have been limited, underscoring the critical need for innovative approaches to fostering energy performance and reducing carbon emissions. This study advocates for adopting circular economy principles as a strategic pathway to mitigate environmental, social, and economic challenges and promote sustainable, net-zero-energy solutions. Through a systematic literature review spanning multiple databases, this research underscores the synergy between urban circular economies (UCEs) and the SDGs, with a particular focus on sustainable solutions, resource use circularity in construction, and renewable energy integration. By setting stringent eligibility criteria, this review captures a wide array of perspectives, providing a comprehensive analysis that bridges the gap between urban sustainability, renewable energy adoption, and climate change mitigation efforts. The analysis of 23 selected papers reveals a substantial linkage between UCE practices and the advancement of SDGs, highlighting the pivotal roles of responsible consumption, resource efficiency, and regenerative practices in achieving co-benefits through policy and regulatory frameworks towards carbon neutrality. The findings recommend implementing a holistic approach that integrates urban sustainability with circular economy principles, offering a structured insight into the potential of UCEs in fostering a sustainable transition in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.