Sustainable Housing Research Articles

Geoecological assessment of spatial comfort of the population and bioproductivity of landscapes (regional aspect)

The article presents a geoecological assessment of the spatial comfort of the population of the Chechen Republic, as well as the natural bioproductivity of landscapes. Cartographic and tabular materials on the problem of environmental safety have been compiled. The main ecological problem of the Republic on the reduction of productive lands per capita is indicated. Conclusions and recommendations are made on the rational use and sustainability of landscape complexes, for planning and housing of the population, and industries of farms.

Navigating Homelessness Assistance While Pregnant: A Rapid Qualitative Research-to-Policy Collaboration in Washington, DC.

Homelessness during pregnancy contributes to adverse pregnancy and infant outcomes from birth through early childhood. Washington, DC, a microcosm of structural inequities in the United States, has persistent racial disparities in perinatal outcomes and housing insecurity. Grounded in a reproductive justice framework, we explored the lived experience of navigating homelessness assistance while pregnant to inform recommendations for a collaborative policy and practice change effort. We conducted 20 individual interviews with DC residents who experienced homelessness during pregnancy. We analyzed the data using thematic analysis and an action-oriented approach. Our analysis resulted in three main recommendation areas for policy and practice change: (1) timely and meaningful access to safe and stable housing in pregnancy; (2) care coordination for services and referrals that support physical, mental, and social well-being; and (3) access to a living wage and affordable housing. Access to stable housing is critical to ensure that pregnant and parenting people can have and raise children in a safe and sustainable environment-key tenets of reproductive justice. Housing support must be meaningfully accessible, including service delivery that accommodates the complex social histories and competing demands that accompany housing insecurity. This study informed the development of strategic recommendations, catalyzed a new model for multisector collaboration, and influenced a system-wide practice change to expand access to robust housing supports for pregnant people. Policy and practice change require sustained leveraging of political will to promote economic justice and ensure that residents can achieve safe, sustainable, and affordable housing.

Framework for Sustainable and Affordable Housing

Framework for Sustainable and Affordable Housing

Temporary housing environments in urban areas – challenges and key findings for implementation

Cities are increasingly confronted with the need to provide shortterm and cost-efficient housing as several factors, such as natural disasters, migration due to political or climatic circumstances or other unpredictable events can result in a sudden and at times temporary need for additional housing. Providing affordable, and flexible but at the same time sustainable and re-useable housing concepts that are easy to construct and quickly to implement are thus requirements that cities must face. Currently there is limited research available in this field, as disaster architecture and temporary housing have not yet been widely researched in an interdisciplinary manner. The project “Urban pop-up housing environments and their potential as local innovation systems” has aimed at addressing this research gap by investigating in a highly interdisciplinary approach how and under which circumstances temporary housing solutions could be implemented under challenging framework conditions. The aim of the project was to systematically investigate and evaluate existing temporary housing options, and to develop and assess innovative and sustainable models for pop-up living systems in urban environments regarding resource uptake as well as social aspects, which may serve as incubators for urban innovation. From a technical perspective the models are focused on integrating aspects related to architecture, energy technologies, resources and materials, water as well as landscape design. Starting with a data pool of international examples, a classification and systematization of relevant typologies has been carried out in combination with user profiles for the different housing situations. On this basis, potential urban areas have been identified for selected scenarios and finally six theoretical temporary housing models have been created and subsequently assessed and analyzed in detail. The purpose of this paper is to present the key findings related to the scenarios and models, that have been developed within this basic research project and the methodologies that have been applied to assess them. The challenges of the scenarios and overall project results are summarized to provide an outline for potential implementation and future pilot projects.

Sustainable Infrastructure Development in The IKN Region (Nusantara Capital): Simulation of The Smart Self-Sustaining Urban Center Area Development

Embarking on the quest for a sustainable urban future, this research immerses itself in the vibrant landscape of "Sustainable Infrastructure Development in the IKN Region (Nusantara Capital)." This study investigates the financial viability and economic attractiveness of the Five City project, focusing on efficient infrastructure management for sustainable settlement development. The core facility comprises four vertical residential towers with supporting amenities. The research aims to evaluate the project''s feasibility over a 25-year investment period through comprehensive financial analyses.The research employs a structured approach, encompassing regulatory analysis, stakeholder identification, financial capability analysis, and risk management. Parameters such as Net Present Value (NPV), Benefit/Cost Ratio (BCR), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and Payback Period are used for economic feasibility analysis. The study employs a detailed Risk Breakdown Structure (RBS) and Risk Register for risk management. The results collectively highlight the project''s promising economic outlook and proactive risk management approach.In conclusion, the study underscores the feasibility of the Five City project as a sound venture in project financing. The findings contribute valuable insights into infrastructure development, project finance, and risk management, providing a blueprint for sustainable housing projects in the Nusantara Capital Region. Recommendations include continuous monitoring, transparent communication, and adaptability for long-term success.

Toward Sustainable Housing Construction in Iraq

Toward Sustainable Housing Construction in Iraq

Challenges and Barriers to Property Reuse for Social Housing: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract This systematic literature review examines the challenges and barriers to property reuse for social housing development, a strategy increasingly recognized for its potential to address housing shortages while promoting sustainable urban development. The study synthesizes findings from a comprehensive analysis of peer-reviewed articles, policy documents, and grey literature, identifying key obstacles across technical, economic, regulatory, social, and environmental domains. Our review reveals that while property reuse offers significant opportunities for creating affordable and sustainable housing solutions, it is hindered by complex interplays of structural limitations, financial constraints, regulatory hurdles, community resistance, and environmental concerns. The findings highlight the multifaceted nature of barriers to adaptive reuse in the context of social housing, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches to overcome these challenges. This review contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing a holistic understanding of the obstacles faced in property reuse projects for social housing and by identifying gaps in current research. The paper concludes with recommendations for policy reforms, innovative financing models, and community engagement strategies to facilitate successful property reuse initiatives. These insights are valuable for policymakers, urban planners, and housing developers seeking to implement effective property reuse strategies for social housing development.

Social Housing Models in Latvia and A Comparative Analysis of the EU Member States

Abstract This study examines social housing models in Latvia, comparing them with those of other member states of the European Union (EU) through comparative and document analysis methodologies. The research investigates Latvia's current social housing landscape, its historical development, and the challenges in meeting the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly. Latvia’s social housing sector, characterised by a very small share of the total housing stock and quality issues, is compared with 3–5 EU countries, focussing on funding mechanisms, target groups, and quality standards. The analysis reveals significant disparities between Latvia and other EU countries in social housing provision, with Latvia having one of the lowest incidences in the EU. Key findings include the impact of demographic trends on housing needs and the challenges posed by the ageing housing stock. The study concludes with recommendations for policy improvements and implementation strategies, contributing to the understanding of social housing dynamics in Latvia within the broader EU context and providing information for more inclusive and sustainable housing solutions.

Sustainable housing construction and population growth in the EAEU: A comparative approach

This paper presents a comparative study that investigates the relationship between housing construction rates and demographic development in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The study aims to explore the housing issue as a significant factor influencing demographic processes within the context of the disparate economic development among EAEU member countries. Employing econometric analysis, the study demonstrates a strong correlation between the commissioning of housing facilities and the population dynamics from 2005 to 2022. The findings highlight the interdependence between demographic growth and housing volume, suggesting the potential for developing a unified strategy for demographic and housing policies across EAEU countries and the international association as a whole. It is argued that improving housing conditions can foster demographic development by mitigating housing risks. Conversely, inadequate housing provision negatively impacts population reproduction dynamics. In conclusion, the paper offers recommendations for formulating a unified strategy in housing and demographic policies within the EAEU, based on the principles of housing demography.

Cabrio Teams, Primary Care for Homeless People In Belgium- Limburg

Cabrio aims to prevent homelessness with a cross-sector, multidisciplinary and autonomous team that establishes contact with homeless people in their living environment in an outreach manner, offers customized support and connects to social facilities. The team aims to help homeless people in finding sustainable housing. In the Belgian province of Limburg there are 3 Cabrio teams that serve 5 local authorities. The welfare organisation CAW Limburg coordinates the 3 Cabrio teams.
 Cabrio is active within the framework that is offered by the Flemish Action Plan to combat homelessness 2020-2024.
 https://www.departementwvg.be/welzijn-en-samenleving/welzijnswerk/dak-en-thuisloosheid 
 Objectives: 
 •Making contact in the social environment of homeless people and building a close relationship with homeless people.
 •Offer support in various life domains and realize a connection with services (network). Guarantee continuity in care.
 •Strengthening the personal network of clients.
 •Working on sustainable housing with social and other housing services.
 •Working on connection through small-scale projects with a high level of participation of the target group. This is part of the socialization of care.
 •Signalling structural barriers to local policy makers. 
 Methodical framework: Cabrio works in an outreaching and multidisciplinary way and uses methods from addiction care, counselling for people with psychological vulnerability and welfare work. Cabrio works from a shared vision of homelessness.
 Outreach work: Counsellors contact clients in the public space, at their home or in the semi-public space (e.g. institution, facility) with a participative basic attitude. They focus on making a connection with 'distrustful' clients
 Multidisciplinary work: To aim for care continuity the Cabrio team brings together different disciplines: general social work (CAW Limburg), addiction care (ZorGGroepZin), psychiatric home care (Beschut Wonen, Mobiel Herstelteam Psychiatrie), special youth care (CANO Pieter Simenon), outreach work (straathoekwerk).
 •Expertise of supervisors is shared in the Cabrio team.
 •Different perspectives and different expertise provides customized guidance.
 •The collaboration and sharing of expertise strengthens the communication and trust between the client and the team and improves the follow-up of specific cases.
 •Supervisors acquire new insights and methods in guiding homeless people to their own work setting.
 Special methods: Harm reduction (or harm-limiting work), motivational interviewing, circle of behaviour change Prochaska and Diclemente, making quarters, guideline for dealing with ethical dilemmas, Housing First.
 1.4.Registration by the Local Homeless Consultation
 The local authorities organize a Local Homeless Consultation (LDO) in which various welfare organizations participate that have contacts with homeless people through their daily practice. The LDO has 3 tasks: 
 •Making an inventory of homeless people in the work area.
 •Coordinating which service/counsellor takes care of the specific client.
 •Tackling signals or structural barriers.
 The LDO refers to the Cabrio team if the client:
 •Does not have stable housing (see Ethos).
 •Scores bad on several life domains and struggles with special problems (e.g. addiction, psychological vulnerability, medical problems, ...)
 •Has a disrupted personal network or does not have or has a few contacts with care services (also called care avoiders).

Towards a more integrated approach of housing and care for persons with a disability in Flanders

Aiming to offer persons with disabilities more opportunities to live independently and more inclusive, the Flemish government radically revised its subsidies for care and care infrastructure for persons with disabilities. Since 2016, subsidies for care are no longer allocated to care providers, but directly to the person with disabilities. In 2018, brick-and-mortar subsidies for care infrastructure were replaced with subject-specific investment subsidies. In this oral paper, we present the results of a study carried out in 2019 aiming to evaluate the impact of this more demand-driven subsidisation on the housing situation of persons with a disability.
 The evaluation was carried out by academic researchers, but set up in co-design with the Housing Agency Flanders, the Flemish Department responsible for care, care organisations, social housing providers, municipalities and organisations supporting persons with a disability. Persons with a disability receiving a care budget were invited to respond to a survey about their living conditions and how these changed after receiving the care budget. Another survey was send to care organisations and social housing providers and contained questions on the impact of the policy change on their investment decisions. After analysing the data, discussions with stakeholders were held to deepen the understanding of the results.
 Persons with disabilities reported in their answers to the survey changes in housing choices, housing quality and housing costs and linked these to the policy changes. Housing and care providers reported how their investment strategies were affected. The results of the study reveal how even after a few years the effects of a more demand driven subsidization are visible. Moreover, the study provides an example of how policy outcomes in one policy field (housing) can be affected by policy initiatives in another policy field (care). As such, the study stresses the need for more transversal research in studying housing policy outcomes and the need for an integrated policy approach.
 The presentation of the study will be followed by a presentation of one of the initiatives of the Housing Agency Flanders aiming at a better integration of these two distinct policy fields. The Agency is currently the driver of diverse incentives and experimental innovations for a more sustainable housing policy and initiatives. The Agency launched a call in 2017 for the development of experimental and innovative housing forms, focusing on building ‘common housing’ or ‘leasehold’ models. For a period of 6 years, 28 initiatives can develop an innovative practice exempt from housing regulation. In several initiatives, the aspect of care is intrinsically related to the experiment and innovation. We will present initiatives that provide an inclusive co-housing solution for people who need intensive and long-term care. Goal is to develop new housing initiatives, detect difficulties and gaps in legislation and explore possibilities to enroll these practices in Flanders.

TYPOLOGY AND INFLUENCE OF CRISIS PERIODS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS IN MODERN CITIES

The impact of crisis periods on the development of modern cities and residential development is an extremely important aspect of urban infrastructure analysis and planning. Different types of crises, including natural crises, economic crises, social conflicts, pandemics, military conflicts and others, can have different consequences for cities and residential development. In the context of crisis periods, cities need to be prepared for the challenges that may arise. This means developing effective action plans that include adapting to new conditions, restoring the housing stock, ensuring housing affordability and protecting residents from various threats. It is also important to remember that crises can test the resilience of cities and housing infrastructure, but they can also create opportunities for improvement and innovation. Bringing authorities, communities and developers together to work and develop together can help create more resilient and viable housing estates that meet the demands of the new realities. The purpose of this paper is to study the typology of crisis periods for modern cities, to identify different types of crises, their characteristics and impact on the development of residential development. The study was conducted using graph analytical and mathematical methods. The research requires the use of methods of both general scientific nature (systematic analysis and synthesis) and those borrowed from other fields of knowledge (philosophy, economics, sociology, psychology), which is explained by the phenomenological nature of the research object itself. In general, given the different types of crisis periods, it is important to develop comprehensive strategies to ensure the sustainability and safety of housing in modern cities. Responding to and recovering from crises determines how successful the development of cities and housing infrastructure will be in the future.

A Multi-Objective Optimization Method for the Design of a Sustainable House in Ecuador by Assessing LCC and LCEI

The building industry significantly contributes to global warming, driving the demand for sustainable construction and green buildings. However, barriers like cost concerns and limited knowledge persist. Previous studies have used multi-objective optimization (MOO) to minimize life cycle cost and environmental impact, often emphasizing energy efficiency. In equatorial climates, unique factors like material selection must be considered. This study assesses the cost-effectiveness of sustainable materials, focusing on envelope materials in Ecuador. The case study is a single-family house in the equatorial climate, optimized using Building Information Modeling (BIM), Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), and Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA). In this study, a MOO process using the weighted sum approach (WSA) identifies sustainable house designs. The sustainable houses achieve a 98% decrease in Ozone Depletion Potential, a 75% reduction in Global Warming Potential, and a 45% drop in Primary Energy Demand, although they still incur a 30% increased cost. The results offer a foundation for cost-effective, eco-friendly housing solutions. Bamboo emerges as a promising material with local acceptance. This research highlights the significance of material selection in sustainable construction and provides a replicable approach for diverse settings. It aims to promote sustainable housing solutions in Ecuador and beyond.

Collective Housing Subsidies: A Public Policy Proposal for Sustainability

One way in which governments foster sustainable homebuilding and housing is by subsidizing single homes’ investment in sustainability technologies. The problem with these programs is that they incentivize inefficient investment by supporting technologies that make technical and economic sense on a small scale. Furthermore, this arrangement constitutes a flawed marketing system, producing a limited impact on global well-being and sustainability in the long term, as it rules out more efficient sustainability technologies. This paper addresses these shortcomings by designing a public policy proposal based on a contract between the government and homeowners that incentivizes the adoption of collective sustainable technologies, changing the marketing system with a shift in the behavior of a dominant actor, the government. Results indicate that an equilibrium in which the homeowners choose to participate in the new collective program in exchange for a subsidy is feasible and stable. Moreover, the generalization of the proposed program may generate a new way to incentivize the more efficient use of sustainable home technologies in the long run.

Floating hutongs life to diminishing Confucian courtyard narratives in Jinan, China

ABSTRACT Confucianism has shaped traditional Chinese urban patterns and sustainable housing development, resulting in a fusion of architectural styles across China and neighbouring regions. As previous research has focused on the physical and environmental aspects of sustainable urban environments and housing, the evolution of spatial narratives has been overlooked. This study explores the significance and influence of Confucian narratives in urban streets and juxtaposed courtyard houses, specifically in the Mingfucheng area of Jinan, Shandong Province. By employing a qualitative approach through semi-structured interviews with residents, the study explores architecture and hutong spaces. The findings highlight the positive impact of Confucian concepts on residents’ lives, spatial behaviour, and spirituality. It also addresses the challenges and opportunities in the process of urbanisation and rural revitalisation. This research provides a narratological perspective on the sustainability of culturally influenced traditional architecture, contributes to the knowledge on courtyards and hutongs, and suggests sustainable strategies for architectural culture and heritage conservation.

The risks of private sector investment in affordable housing development: An Afrocentric perspective

The state delivery of affordable and sustainable housing continues to be a complicated challenge in Africa, and there is a need to encourage private sector participation. As a result, this study examines the risks associated with private sector participation in affordable housing and supporting infrastructure investment and the strategies towards mitigating the risks from an Afrocentric perspective. The evidence from a systematic literature review was coupled with the opinion of an international expert panel to address the paper’s aim and provide recommendations for developing improved housing and supporting infrastructure in Sub-Saharan Africa. The review outcomes and the qualitative data from the panel discussion were analysed using thematic analysis. The results revealed that market dynamics, land supply and acquisition constraints, cost of construction materials, unsupportive policies, and technical and financial factors constitute risks to affordable housing in the region. Mitigation strategies include leveraging joint efforts, strengths, and resource bases, increasing access to land and finance for private sector participation, developing a supportive government framework to promote an enabling environment for easy access to land acquisition and development finance, local production of building materials, research and technology adoption. In line with the United Nations (UN) Agenda 2030 targets and principles, reforms are required across the housing value chain, involving the private sector and community. Application of the study’s recommendations could minimise the risks of affordable housing delivery and enhance private sector participation.

Sustainable housing with endogenous resources

In Ecuador, typical homes in rural areas are built with indigenous resources such as guadua cane (Bamboo). Currently, alternatives are being sought that improve the quality of life of the people who live in these houses. The objective of the research is to propose energy alternatives that do not affect the environment and that enhance the sustainability of the territories. Bamboo constructions have increased in the country as have isolated photovoltaic systems for electrification, the combination of them improves living conditions, benefiting many families who are employed in the production and construction of these homes. The result was guadua cane homes that use photovoltaic systems as a source of energy, combining endogenous resources efficiently.

Adoption of Different Housing Models to Access Housing by Households in Nairobi County

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate adoption of different housing models to access housing by households in Nairobi County.
 Methodology: Employing a descriptive research design, the study investigates the impact of housing regulations on housing access through mortgage and cooperative models. The research sample comprises 385 households, CEOs of housing financing organizations, and government officers.
 Findings: The study reveals that adoption of housing model is shaped by diverse factors. The residency duration reflects both long-term and newer residents, highlighting the dynamic interplay of urban growth and migration. Notably, 35.0% of respondents have lived in their current houses for "4 - 6 years," emphasizing housing stability. The prevalent adoption of the Incremental (34.4%) and Cooperative Models (33.4%), alongside 41.4% awareness of the Mortgage Model, signifies residents' adaptability in navigating financial avenues for homeownership. Challenges like high construction costs persist, with 80% of Nairobi's population residing in informal settlements and slums. Strengthening regulatory frameworks is crucial, and policymakers should address financial barriers. This study provides insights for creating an inclusive and sustainable housing environment, essential for the 59.2% of renters expressing aspirations to transition into homeownership in Nairobi County. In conclusion, the housing landscape in Nairobi County, particularly Ruai Sub-County, reflects a mix of long-term and newer residents, emphasizing housing stability. The prevalent adoption of Incremental and Cooperative Models, along with awareness of the Mortgage Model, indicates residents' adaptability in pursuing homeownership.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Utilizing the Public Interest Economic Regulation Theory (PIERT), the Q Theory of Housing Investment, and the Theory of Distributive Justice, the research explores the interplay between government regulations, market forces, and social equity in the context of affordable housing. To address challenges, policymakers should strengthen regulatory frameworks, enhance financial policies, and promote diverse housing models. Public awareness campaigns are vital. Recommendations include tailored financial products and inclusive strategies to meet the varied needs of the population. These measures aim to create an enabling environment for accessible and sustainable housing in Nairobi County, benefiting both existing and aspiring homeowners.

Liveability Considerations: Towards Designing Sustainable Public Housing in Niger State, Nigeria

This study investigates liveability in the context of sustainable public housing in Niger State, Nigeria, where existing housing efforts have fallen short of residents' satisfaction. Recognizing the critical link between liveability indicators and environmental sustainability, this research aims to identify key liveability variables that could be integrated into the design and construction of sustainable public housing. Employing a mixed-method approach, the study involved cluster sampling for selecting housing estates and units, followed by the administration of 910 questionnaires containing 102 questions on liveability variables. Analytical techniques, including Hierarchical Cluster Analysis, Factor Analysis, and Multiple Regression Analysis, were used to group, refine, and validate the liveability variables. The results revealed 21 significant variables that collectively could achieve a 92.9% satisfaction rate among residents if incorporated into public housing design. These findings underline the potential of addressing liveability in the pursuit of sustainable housing solutions, offering insights for urban planners, architects, and policymakers. By focusing on the residents' perspectives, the study contributes to a more user-centred approach in public housing development, promoting long-term satisfaction and reducing the need for post-occupancy alterations.

Preispitivanje socijalnog stanovanja s gledišta ekološke održivosti: empirijska analiza

Environmental problems are being increasingly recognised as critical strategies for attaining sustainability in social housing, given the persistent demand for social housing in urban areas. However, to remain inexpensive, housing built for low-income groups requires greater environmental compromises. The main objective of this study is to examine social housing projects from an environmental sustainability standpoint and determine whether they have a low environmental impact. This study also aims to inform policymakers about the environmental sustainability of social housing projects and provide an opportunity to review housing policies in terms of environmental sustainability. Six social housing projects were selected under the same climatic conditions from Spain and Turkey, with distinct economic classifications and housing policies. The findings indicate that although social housing built in Spain has a smaller carbon footprint than Turkey throughout the manufacturing (A1–A3) and building (A4–A5) phases, social housing projects in both countries cannot be classified as low-impact housing projects.