Strategies For Sustainable Urban Development Research Articles

The Holocene to Modern Fraser River Delta, Canada: Geological History, Processes, Deposits, Natural Hazards, and Coastal Management

The Fraser River Delta (FRD) is a large sedimentary system and home to Metro Vancouver, situated within the unceded territories of several First Nations. This review provides an overview of the geological evolution of the FRD, connecting hydrodynamic processes with sedimentary deposits across its diverse environments, from the river to the delta slope. The study emphasizes the implications of sedimentation and delta evolution for natural hazards and coastal/delta management, pinpointing knowledge gaps. Comprising four main zones – river, delta plain, tidal flats, and delta slope – the FRD is subject to several natural hazards including subsidence, flooding, earthquakes, liquefaction, and tsunamis. The delta plain, bordering the Fraser River’s distributary channels, hosts tidal marshes and flats, including both active and abandoned areas. Active tidal flats like Roberts Bank and Sturgeon Bank receive sediment directly from the Fraser River, while abandoned tidal flats, like those at Boundary Bay and Mud Bay, no longer receive sediment. The tidal flats transition into the delta slope, characterized by sand in the south and mud in the north of the Main Channel. The FRD's susceptibility to hazards necessitates protective measures, with approximately 250 km of dykes shielding the delta plain from river floods and storm surges. Subsidence amplifies the impact of rising sea levels. Earthquakes in the region can induce tsunamis, submarine slope failures, and liquefaction of delta sediments, emphasizing the importance of incorporating sedimentation patterns and delta evolution into management strategies for sustainable urban development, habitat restoration, and coastal defence initiatives.

Integrating Spatiotemporal Analysis of Land Transformation and Urban Growth in Peshawar Valley and Its Implications on Temperature in Response to Climate Change

Examining the interconnected dynamics of urbanization and climate change is crucial due to their implications for environmental, social, and public health systems. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of these dynamics in the Peshawar Valley, a rapidly urbanizing region in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, over a 30-year period (1990–2020). A novel methodological framework integrating remote sensing, GIS techniques, and Google Earth Engine (GEE) was developed to analyze land use/land cover (LULC) changes, particularly the expansion of the built-up environment, along with the land surface temperature (LST) and heat index (HI). This framework intricately links these elements, providing a unique perspective on the environmental transformations occurring in the Peshawar Valley. Unlike previous studies that focused on individual aspects, this research offers a holistic understanding of the complex interplay between urbanization, land use changes, temperature dynamics, and heat index variations. Over three decades, urbanization expanded significantly, with built-up areas increasing from 6.35% to 14.13%. The population surged from 5.3 million to 12.6 million, coupled with significant increases in registered vehicles (from 0.171 million to 1.364 million) and operational industries (from 327 to 1155). These transitions influenced air quality and temperature dynamics, as evidenced by a highest mean LST of 30.30 °C and a maximum HI of 55.48 °C, marking a notable increase from 50.54 °C. These changes show strong positive correlations with built-up areas, population size, registered vehicles, and industrial activity. The findings highlight the urgent need for adaptive strategies, public health interventions, and sustainable practices to mitigate the environmental impacts of urbanization and climate change in the Peshawar Valley. Sustainable urban development strategies and climate change mitigation measures are crucial for ensuring a livable and resilient future for the region. This long-term analysis provides a robust foundation for future projections and policy recommendations.

Evaluating the Development Levels of Green Urban Transportation Systems

To promote the green and resilient development of urban transportation and the sustainable development of cities, we developed a technique that can be used to evaluate the level of urban green transportation development. First, the toughness evaluation indexes were integrated according to the connotation requirements of green transportation development, and the evaluation index system was constructed using the hierarchical analysis method. Second, subjective and objective weighting methods, such as the G1, entropy weighting, and “addition” integration methods, which provide a simple and easy-to-use evaluation method that can improve evaluation accuracy, were adopted. Finally, Harbin, a typical city in the north, was chosen as a representative city to verify the method effectiveness. The study findings can be used to evaluate the current level of green development of a city as well as for future planning, providing a basis for formulating sustainable urban transportation development strategies. We will continue to conduct comparative studies on different evaluation methods and cities to improve the generalizability of the method.

Environmental Risks Associated With Urban Development Projects in Kenya

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine environmental risks associated with urban development projects in Kenya Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study revealed that urban development projects in Kenya present significant environmental risks that require careful consideration and proactive mitigation measures. The rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion in Kenya's cities have been associated with various environmental challenges, including air and water pollution, habitat loss, soil degradation, urban heat island effects, and adverse impacts on human health. These environmental risks stem from factors such as increased vehicular emissions, industrial activities, improper waste management practices, deforestation, and inadequate urban planning and infrastructure. The concentration of population and economic activities in urban centers exacerbates these environmental pressures, further highlighting the urgent need for sustainable urban development strategies in Kenya. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: urban political ecology theory, environmental justice theory & sustainable development theory may be used to anchor future studies on environmental risks associated with urban development projects in Kenya. Prioritize the implementation of green infrastructure initiatives, such as green roofs, urban parks, and sustainable drainage systems, to mitigate environmental risks associated with urban development. Integrate nature-based solutions into urban planning and design processes to enhance ecosystem services, improve air and water quality, and reduce urban heat island effects. Advocate for legislative reforms and policy interventions that prioritize environmental sustainability in urban development planning and regulation. Implement stringent environmental impact assessment (EIA) processes for all urban development projects to ensure compliance with environmental standards and regulations.

Strategies for sustainable urban development: Assessing the impact of adaptation readiness, nanotechnology, and renewable energy on urban ecosystems

Strategies for sustainable urban development: Assessing the impact of adaptation readiness, nanotechnology, and renewable energy on urban ecosystems

Implementation challenges of Integrated Sustainable Urban Development Strategies in Spain during the period 2014-20

Integrated Sustainable Urban Development Strategies (ISUDS) have become the approach adopted by Spain for the promotion of sustainable urban development co-financed by the ERDF during the period 2014-20. While previous research has mainly focused on the design stage of these policies, this study focuses on the implementation stage. Through document analysis and in-depth interviews with actors from the Spanish public administration, this study reveals a low rate of execution of the strategies and the challenges faced by local entities. This research aims to broaden our knowledge about ISUDS in Spain and to propose measures that could improve the implementation of future European programmes on urban sustainability.

The Relationship between Farmland Abandonment and Urbanization Processes: A Case Study in Four Chinese Urban Agglomerations

Clarifying the relationship between urbanization and farmland abandonment in urban agglomerations (UAs) is crucial to guide the formulation of arable land management policies and strategies for sustainable urban development. Despite numerous studies confirming the correlation between farmland abandonment and certain urbanization factors, the exploration of the patterns and underlying mechanisms of farmland abandonment in China’s UAs remains worthy of systematic investigation. In this study, we conducted an analysis of the spatiotemporal trends in farmland abandonment and examined the key drivers of farmland abandonment in four representative Chinese UAs—Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH), Chengdu–Chongqing (CC), Pearl River Delta (PRD), and Yangtze River Delta (YRD). Our findings reveal that farmland abandonment has been intensified with increasing fragmentation and aggregation patches across these UAs. Abandonment experience was the main driver of continuous abandonment. Moreover, natural conditions persistently influenced farmland abandonment in the BTH, while land urbanization and economic urbanization were predominant drivers in the CC. The abandonment in the PRD was mainly driven by population urbanization, while the abandonment in the YRD was primarily driven by economic urbanization and land urbanization. The research findings provide data support and scientific explanation for land policy-making in these typical UAs under different development strategies.

Positive or Negative: The Heterogeneities in the Effects of Urban Regeneration on Surrounding Economic Vitality—From the Perspective of Housing Price

Urban regeneration is a sound, sustainable urban development strategy globally. In China, promoting urban regeneration has become the national sustainable urban strategy. Under the resource constraint, it is necessary to understand what benefits different types of urban regeneration projects can contribute to urban development. Much research has contributed to evaluating the benefits of urban regeneration on the project scale. The systematic investigation of their effects on surrounding economic vitality, especially the comparison between different types of projects, is relatively downplayed. This paper aims to evaluate and compare the effects of urban regeneration projects on surrounding economic vitality by calculating the change in housing prices. Chongqing is selected as the case city. Based on the housing transaction data from 2015 to 2021, a staggered difference-in-difference method is employed to capture the results. The finding shows that the overall effects are significantly negative, especially within a 400–800 m radius. Higher investment or better project location relates to stronger negative effects. Moreover, the differences in effects among the three types of urban regeneration projects are clearly revealed from diverse perspectives. It provides a valuable reference for policymakers and urban planners to make urban regeneration planning better by considering comprehensive benefits.

Revealing the urban heat Island: Investigating spatiotemporal surface temperature dynamics, modeling, and interactions with controllable and non-controllable factors

The unchecked growth of urban populations has spurred rapid and unsustainable urban expansion, exacerbating environmental degradation both locally and globally. This research offers a comprehensive analysis of the Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon in Bangalore and Hyderabad, India, focusing on its spatial and temporal distribution and its correlation with air pollutants. Conducted over the course of summer and winter seasons from 2001 to 2021, this study advances our understanding of UHI dynamics in rapidly urbanizing regions, shedding light on the complex interplay between urbanization, climate, and air quality. The primary objective of this study is to assess and compare the predictive performance of baseline Random Forest (RF) and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) models for forecasting Land Surface Temperature (LST) in Hyderabad, India, while examining the impact of integrating spatial information into these models. Incorporating an extensive array of input variables, ranging from spectral indices to terrain features, land use/land cover (LULC) data, atmospheric parameters, and spatial data, the analysis reveals significant relationships between LST and various factors. Notably, Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) and Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) exhibit strong positive correlations with LST, while Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) demonstrates a pronounced negative correlation. Similarly, Modified Normalized Difference Water Index (MNDWI) displays the strongest positive correlation with LST (r = 0.49), whereas EVI exhibits the most notable negative correlation (r = −0.67). Additionally, Modified Bare Soil Index (MBI) demonstrates a noteworthy negative correlation (r = −0.48) with LST for Bangalore. Atmospheric components such as CO, NO2, and O3 also show significant positive correlations with LST, with NO2 displaying the highest correlation during winter in urban areas. XGBoost emerges as the superior model, achieving high R2 values of 0.84 for Bangalore and 0.88 for Hyderabad. Integration of spatial information consistently enhances the performance of both RF and XGBoost models, resulting in reduced Mean Squared Error (MSE) and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) values. However, predictions over water bodies tend to be underestimated. The study underscores the importance of incorporating spatial data for accurate LST prediction, with implications for environmental monitoring and management. Despite the advancements made, further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms through which spatial information improves model performance, suggesting avenues for future investigation and refinement of modeling methodologies. At the intersection of rapid urban growth and environmental conservation, these findings are poised to inform policymakers, urban planners, and researchers, guiding them towards innovative and sustainable urban development strategies aimed at mitigating the adverse impacts of rapid urban expansion while promoting ecosystem well-being. The study contributes to spatial modeling strategies and refines LST prediction methodologies, offering valuable insights for addressing the challenges posed by urbanization and climate change in rapidly urbanizing regions.

Nexus between carbon dioxide emissions, population, migration, foreign direct investment, and gross domestic product: New evidence in the context of Vietnam

This research investigates the complex interplay between carbon dioxide emissions, population dynamics, migration patterns, foreign direct investment, and gross domestic product in Vietnam. The paper uses the unrestricted fixed and random panel data method. The data is collected from the World Bank and Vietnam General Office of Statistics. This study employs a multidimensional analytical framework in the country's rapid economic growth context, combining quantitative and qualitative methods to unravel the nuanced relationships within this nexus. The main finding of this study reveals significant correlations between carbon dioxide emissions, population, migration, FDI- foreign direct investment inflows, and GDP- gross domestic product growth, highlighting the pivotal role of these factors in shaping Vietnam's economic landscape. The study draws on comprehensive datasets spanning multiple years. The research reveals significant correlations, notably the positive link between foreign direct investment inflows and gross domestic product growth. Simultaneously, the study sheds light on the environmental challenges associated with urbanization and the socioeconomic impacts of internal migration. The findings of this paper contribute to the theoretical understanding of these interconnected factors, emphasizing the need for an integrated policy approach. Policy recommendations include sustainable urban development strategies, sector-specific foreign direct investment initiatives, and inclusive migration policies. Additionally, fostering green technologies, community engagement, and international collaborations are proposed to advance Vietnam's sustainable development goals. This research is a foundation for policymakers, scholars, and stakeholders, offering actionable insights to guide Vietnam toward a balanced and resilient future. The study's methodology, findings, and policy implications contribute to the academic discourse on sustainable development and provide remarkable guidance for navigating the complexities of economic growth and environmental stewardship in emerging economies.

Measuring Deprivation and Micro-Segregation in Greek Integrated Sustainable Urban Development Strategies: Time to Apply a Common Method?

During the Programming Period 2014–2020, dozens of Greek cities drafted Integrated Territorial Investment programmes, based on Integrated Sustainable Urban Development Strategies (ITI SUDs). The Strategies justified the selection of intervention and activity areas using socio-economic analysis. The parameters of that analysis, as specified by the National Coordination Authority, reflected the socio-economic and functional parameters highlighted in the relevant EU regulations. This paper uses a recently published methodology in order to estimate and map deprivation in Greek cities with over 100,000 inhabitants, and compares the results with the activity areas identified in the ITI SUDs of those cities. The paper also makes an estimation of the potential for micro-segregation in deprived areas, in an effort to uncover the links between deprivation, built form and social composition at the micro-scale. The analysis shows that deprivation is comparatively more pronounced in Athens and Thessaloniki, and that the use of a common methodology to measuring deprivation, but with customized measurement scales, could support a more targeted allocation of urban policy resources. On the other hand, micro-segregation seems to be a factor worth exploring only in Athens and Thessaloniki, and not in Patra, Larissa, Volos and Heraklion, where the building stock in areas of deprivation is mostly low-rise.

Under the banner of heritage conservation: The gentrification of dilapidated low-income neighborhoods in the Daming Palace Protection and Renovation Project

Understanding the dynamics and implications of urban redevelopment projects, particularly in the context of China's rapid urbanization, could inform sustainable and inclusive urban development strategies. This abstract provides an overview of the Daming Palace Protection and Renovation Project (DPPRP). Unlike other redevelopment projects that prioritize economic benefits, the DPPRP is predominantly driven by political interests, with cultural and economic factors playing supporting roles. As part of the broader integrated conservation and redevelopment program, the DPPRP holds political significance, and its implementation demonstrates clear state involvement, led by the local government. The response from residents reflects the failure of China's attempts to promote citizen participation in local governance, suggesting challenges even for participatory authoritarianism. These developments have negative implications for Chinese citizens' pursuit of their right to the city, hindering their ability to shape urban spaces and participate meaningfully in decision-making processes. The purpose of this study is to analyze the Daming Palace Protection and Renovation Project (DPPRP) in China, providing insights for policymakers and urban planners to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of urban redevelopment projects.

Vertical Extension and Retrofitting of the Existing R.C.C. Commercial Building – A review

This study explores the feasibility of vertically extension of existing buildings as a sustainable solution to urban densification, particularly focusing on the structural implications and potential benefits of such extensions. Through structural analysis using advanced software like ETAB, and SAFE. as well as examination of cost-effectiveness, the research evaluates the viability of vertical extensions in different contexts. Case studies from various regions, illustrate the technical challenges and benefits associated with vertical extension projects. The analysis encompasses considerations such as structural stability of existing building after floor extensions, and cost implications, offering insights into the most efficient methods for extending buildings vertically. This research underscores the importance of vertical extension as a sustainable urban development strategy and calls for greater awareness and adoption of this approach within the construction industry. It emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders and proposes a development process to streamline the implementation of vertical extension projects.

The role of random forest and Markov chain models in understanding metropolitan urban growth trajectory

IntroductionThis study delves into the spatiotemporal dynamics of land use and land cover (LULC) in a Metropolitan area over three decades (1991–2021) and extends its scope to forecast future scenarios from 2031 to 2051. The intent is to aid sustainable land management and urban planning by enabling precise predictions of urban growth, leveraging the integration of remote sensing, GIS data, and observations from Landsat satellites 5, 7, and 8.MethodsThe research employed a machine learning-based approach, specifically utilizing the random forest (RF) algorithm, for LULC classification. Advanced modeling techniques, including CA–Markov chains and the Land Change Modeler (LCM), were harnessed to project future LULC alterations, which facilitated the development of transition probability matrices among different LULC classes.ResultsThe investigation uncovered significant shifts in LULC, influenced largely by socio-economic factors. Notably, vegetation cover decreased substantially from 49.21% to 25.81%, while forest cover saw an increase from 31.89% to 40.05%. Urban areas expanded significantly, from 7.55% to 25.59% of the total area, translating into an increase from 76.31 km2 in 1991 to 258.61 km2 in 2021. Forest area also expanded from 322.25 km2 to 409.21 km2. Projections indicate a further decline in vegetation cover and an increase in built-up areas to 371.44 km2 by 2051, with a decrease in forest cover compared to its 2021 levels. The predictive accuracy of the model was confirmed with an overall accuracy exceeding 90% and a kappa coefficient around 0.88.DiscussionThe findings underscore the model’s reliability and provide a significant theoretical framework that integrates socio-economic development with environmental conservation. The results emphasize the need for a balanced approach towards urban growth in the Islamabad metropolitan area, underlining the essential equilibrium between development and conservation for future urban planning and management. This study underscores the importance of using advanced predictive models in guiding sustainable urban development strategies.

Evaluation of Land Use and Land Cover Change and Spatial Ecological Impacts Using GIS: A Case Study of Urumqi's Primary Urban Area

In this study, GIS technology was used to take the main urban area of Urumqi as an example to conduct an in-depth study of the land use cover change and its spatial ecological effects in the past 30 years. It is found that the rapid urbanization process has led to the gradual reduction of arable land and vacant land, while the area of land designated for construction has witnessed a notable upward trajectory. The alteration in land use has had a profound effect on the ecological environment, changed the original ecological pattern, and has had a non-negligible impact on air quality, soil fertility and biodiversity. Therefore, advocating reasonable land use and proposing and implementing sustainable urban development strategies are very important for the future development of the main urban area of Urumqi.

Maximising CO2 Sequestration in the City: The Role of Green Walls in Sustainable Urban Development

Environmental issues are a pressing concern for modern societies, and the increasing levels of atmospheric CO2 have led to global warming. To mitigate climate change, reducing carbon emissions is crucial, and carbon sequestration plays a critical role in this effort. Technologies for utilising CO2 can be divided into two major categories: direct use and conversion into chemicals and energy, and indirect use as a carbon source for plants. While plants’ ability to absorb and store CO2 makes them the best CO2 sink, finding suitable urban areas for significant green spaces is a challenge. Green walls are a promising solution, as they require less land, provide more ecosystem services than horizontal systems do, and can contribute to reducing environmental problems. This study evaluates the conceptual potentials and limitations of urban biomass circulation in terms of energy production, food production, and CO2 consumption, focusing on growth-promoting bacteria, urban agriculture, and vertical systems. The aim of this research is discovering new methods of carbon sequestration using multi-purpose green walls to achieve sustainable urban development and CO2 reduction strategies to contribute to a more sustainable future.

Mitigating air and noise pollution through highway capping: The Bundang-Suseo Highway Cap Project case study

Highways, while vital for transportation, often lead to heightened air and noise pollution, adversely affecting nearby communities. This study delves into the effectiveness of highway capping, a sustainable urban development strategy, in addressing these environmental challenges, with a specific focus on the Bundang-Suseo Highway in South Korea. This study employed a multifaceted approach, incorporating on-road monitoring, in situ measurements, and vertical assessments using UAVs. Following the cap's installation, the area experienced more stable pollutant levels, marking a notable shift from the previously fluctuating conditions heavily influenced by the highway. In-depth in situ monitoring near the cap revealed significant reductions in noise and pollutants like UFP and BC. Furthermore, UAV monitoring captured these changes in pollutant levels at different altitudes. Notably, the installation of the highway cap led to increased PM2.5, PM10, and NO2 levels at ground level, but a decrease above the cap, emphasizing the critical importance of intentional highway cap design in enhancing urban air quality and reducing exposure to harmful pollutants. This research yields invaluable insights for urban planners, health authorities, and policymakers, aiding the precise identification of pollution-prone areas and advocating for improved highway cap design to enhance urban environments.

Linking geodiversity and geosystem services to human well-being for the sustainable utilization of the subsurface and the urban environment.

Because the functions of the subsurface are hidden from view, its important role in society is often ignored or taken for granted. The subsurface is, however, an essential part of the global ecosystem with important contributions to human well-being. Geodiversity is an important characteristic in this respect. Material supply is the more obvious role of the subsurface with projections of a doubling of global material use in 2060 as compared to 2017. Moreover, creating underground spaces and infrastructure are gaining importance in the urban environment. The main reason for the inadequate protection of geodiversity is the lack of a comprehensive and integrative framework. Linking socio-economic activities to biophysical system characteristics of the subsurface is facilitated by the geosystem services approach. Sustainable urban development strategies require including geodiversity in decision-making on human well-being and setting conditions for land use change. Spatial plans and decisions on the use of natural endowments should look at processes over much longer timeframes. In this paper, we explore the links between human well-being and the subsurface with an emphasis on the role of geodiversity. We set out a methodological framework and describe possible long term three-dimensional land use planning consequences for sustainable utilization of the subsurface. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Geodiversity for science and society'.

THE CITY AND ITS IMAGE: DISCOURSES OF THEORETICAL UNDERSTANDING

The article is devoted to understanding the ideas that influence the understanding of the essence of the city and its image in the process of historical development. Through historical and comparative analysis, key changes are illuminated, including the shift from the ideal of social justice to individualism. The research is relevant in the context of the impact of technology on urban life; it can become the basis for developing strategies for sustainable urban development and creating favorable social conditions. Aspects that influence the perception of residents and researchers of the urban image are identified for subsequent analysis of the modern city.

Research on the Optimization of Urban Ecological Infrastructure Based on Ecosystem Service Supply, Demand, and Flow

Ecological infrastructure plays a crucial role in strengthening the relationship between humans and the environment by optimizing ecological space and resource allocation in urban environments. However, there are few studies on the functional assessment and spatial and temporal evolution of ecological infrastructure and its layout optimization. In this study, we developed an ecological infrastructure optimization method based on ecosystem service supply, demand, and flow in Yantai City as the study area; identified the spatial extent of urban ecological infrastructure and its spatial and temporal changes based on the spatial quantification of multiple ecosystem services; assessed whether the existing ecological infrastructure could satisfy the needs of the urban residents by calculating the ecosystem service supply and demand indexes; and used the spatial quantification of ecosystem service flows to optimize the spatial layout of urban ecological infrastructure. This study shows that, from 2010 to 2018, ecological infrastructure in Longkou, Zhaoyuan, and Laiyang decreased, contrasting with the growth in the existing peripheral areas. The study found a clear spatial mismatch between the supply and demand of ecosystem services, especially in the central urban areas, suggesting that the existing infrastructure was unable to satisfy the needs of high-demand areas. This study assessed the peripheral areas of the city using comparative ecological radiation force (CERF), including 314.64 km2 of environmentally beautiful village units as key components of ecological infrastructure in Yantai City. These findings are crucial for sustainable environmental management and urban development strategies.