Urban Sustainable Development Goal Research Articles

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.

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.

Scenario analysis of the eco-efficiency for municipal solid waste management: A case study of 211 cities in western China

Mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is vital for creating sustainable municipal solid waste management systems (MSWMS). In this study, we constructed an MSWMS considering recycling and carried out GHG emission accounting for MSWMS in western China from 2012 to 2021 based on the IPCC mass balance (MB) method. Then, we modeled the emission reduction potentials and economic benefits under different scenarios for 211 prefectural and county-level cities. We formed an eco-efficiency analysis framework that can be used to explore the sustainable development mode. Results revealed that: (1) Emissions from the western region's municipal solid waste (MSW) disposal exhibit an inverted “U” pattern, increasing at an annual rate of about 1.3 % since 2012, peaking in 2019, and then decreasing at rates of 14.4 % and 10.6 %. (2) The GHG emissions show a spatial pattern of decreasing evolution from east to west and south to north, and the provincial-municipal level shows different trends. (3) The SB3 scenario (optimization of landfill gas power generation technology) was the most ecologically efficient in 43 % of the western cities, followed by SB4 (33 %) and SA3 (24 %). (4) The development of integrated urban domestic waste management strategies by the three-level scenarios derived from this study will help local governments achieve the goal of sustainable urban development. Clarifying the differences in GHG emissions and eco-efficiency among cities will help provide policy recommendations for regions with similar characteristics to explore technically applicable, economically affordable implementation paths for city management according to local conditions.

Creative solution concept for urban structure sustainability development (for example: architecture and planning structure of Iranian small cities)

Special urgency for small cities in Iran represents developing problem guiding principles of transformation and development of architectural and planning structure, as well as applied technique of its evaluation in accordance with the requirements of sustainable development. This article describes leading forms of urban development settlements and identifies common principles which influence on sustainable urban development.
 The objective of this article is to assert sustainable development theories which meets city planning structure and develop a sustainability concept for Iranian small cities. This will be done through studies that were influenced by addressing a rethinking in order to emphasize adapting new trend of sustainable development which focused on city planning structure, and suitable for Iranian small cities condition. Thus, the main tasks of study could be formulated as follows: define Iranian small cities planning structure features and problems; study recent sustainability documents and related urban development forms and principles; comparative analysis; and finally suggest a creative solution for architectural and planning structure for Iranian small cities condition.
 The research used the method of analysis of latest international scientific literature and documents related to urban development sustainability in order to evaluate, compare and achieve a proper solution for Iranian small cities structures sustainability. It should be noted that such kind of analysis would be done only after analyzing and identifying the features and problems of the planning structure of Iranian small cities.
 Results of study: The article reveals recent sustainable urban development forms and its interpretations in modern urban development theories; demonstrates Iranian cities structure features; Iranian cities general plans problems; urban forms and design principles for achieving the goals of sustainable urban development for conditions of Iran.
 The scientific novelty of research is to study recent urban sustainable development forms and principles which related to urban structures; and suggest an appropriate and suitable concept for Iranian small cities development sustainability.

Redesign of Roads for the optimization of Urban Space, integrating a Sustainable Mobility

This paper addresses “Redesign of the rural roads of the municipal capital of Huichapan, Hidalgo”, in order to generate the optimization of the Urban Space and integrate a Sustainable Mobility, through the analysis of the case study of Huichapan, Hidalgo, Mexico, which is a rural municipality, is characterized by being dispersed, faces specific mobility challenges such as coverage and availability. Together with its structure of narrow, winding streets that sometimes lead to dead ends. This paper addresses the implementation of a cycle path as an integral solution that benefits mobility, health and local economy, as a reference for the restructuring of dispersed urban-rural settlements. The initiative seeks to adhere to the national goals of sustainable urban development, considering the image of a magical town and the rich history of Huichapan, as an initiative that adapts to the context and exalts its qualities.

Implementation of Urban Policy and Sustainable Development Goal 11 in Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja

The quest to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 target through implementation of urban policies has continued to pose challenges in developing countries including Nigeria and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja in particular. The purpose of this paper is to examine the ways implementation of urban policies has influenced the realization of SDG 11 goals in the FCT given the challenges confronting the residents in the city, particularly in the areas of clean water and efficient transportation system. The paper was anchored on the elite theory which helps in explaining the connection between implementation of SDG 11 target and elite preferences. The population of the study consisted of 3,510 respondents, while the sample size of the study was 360 respondents determined using Rakesh sample size formula.360 questionnaires were administered. Twenty-five (25) respondents were selected for an in-depth interview on the basis of their knowledge on issues under study. Data, particularly in the areas of clean water were also collected using secondary sources. Data from questionnaires were analyzed using percentages and frequency tables, while data from in-depth interviews were analyzed using textual methods. Data from secondary sources were analyzed using relational-content analysis. Among other things, findings revealed that the level of implementation of urban development before the introduction of SDG 11 has been very poor, while the SDG 11 has not brought meaningful development in FCT since inception based on the records available. On the basis of the findings, it is concluded that significant improvement in the level of implementation of urban development policies in the FCT is vital to ensuring the objectives of SDG 11 target in the city and in its suburban areas are achieved. Among other things, it was recommended that urban development policies regarding availability of clean water should be adequately implemented in FCT in order to achieve SDG 11 targets in the city, while at the same time, implementing the Abuja Master Plan to achieve an efficient transportation system in the city.

Research on Service Design of Garbage Classification Driven by Artificial Intelligence

This paper proposes a framework for AI-driven municipal solid waste classification service design and management, with an emphasis on advancing sustainable urban development. This study uses narrative research and case study methods to delve into the benefits of AI technology in waste classification systems. The framework includes intelligent recognition, management strategies, AI-based waste classification technologies, service reforms, and AI-powered customer involvement and education. Our research indicates that AI technology can improve accuracy, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in waste classification, contributing to environmental sustainability and public health. However, the effectiveness of AI applications in diverse city contexts requires further verification. The framework holds theoretical and practical significance, offering insights for future service designs of waste management and promoting broader goals of sustainable urban development.

Developing Urban Furniture by Unitec Students for an Emerging Urban Fabric in Auranga, New Zealand: The Socio-Ecological Dynamics of Creative Sustainable Prototyping Production During the Covid Crisis

As the number of suburban communities in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland grows, it’s essential to consider the social component when planning and developing these communities in order to improve social resilience and reduce social and economic disparities between residents in these areas and those in the city centre. Since the Covid-19 crisis forced people to stay in their neighbourhoods during lockdowns, social urban spaces have become one of the most important urban necessities for achieving urban resilience and sustainable development goals. Given the role that urban furniture plays in making urban social spaces more attractive and liveable, this paper discusses two student-built urban furniture projects, a multi-functional bike pod and a popup performance container. Students from Unitec School of Architecture designed and built the two projects for MADE Group’s Auranga housing development in Karaka, South Auckland, as an example of enhancing social resilience in a suburban community in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

Beyond traffic jams: public perceptions of Jabodetabek Commuter Line (KRL) System for sustainable urban development

Jabodetabek Commuter Line (KRL) is an essential transportation infrastructure that connects the city’s suburbs with the central business district. Despite the system’s expansion in recent years, there needs to be more research on how the public perceives the KRL system as a sustainable transportation option and how these perceptions might influence the system’s effectiveness in achieving sustainable urban development goals. This study aims to understand how Jabodetabek residents perceive the KRL system as a sustainable transportation option. The method of this study is qualitative research with in-depth interviews. The study found that Jabodetabek residents perceive the KRL system as a sustainable transportation option for their daily needs. The participants identified several positive aspects of the KRL system, including its affordability, convenience, and environmental friendliness. However, the study also revealed negative perceptions, such as safety concerns and limited connectivity. Positive perceptions of the KRL system can lead to increased usage and greater support for sustainable transportation policies, whereas negative perceptions can have the opposite effect by reducing usage and decreasing support for sustainability initiatives. These findings indicate the importance of understanding the public’s perception of sustainable transportation options in achieving sustainable urban development goals. These insights inform sustainable transportation policymaking and contribute to global knowledge about sustainable cities and communities.

Urban sustainability as a social function of the city: Strategic correlation based on Brazilian legislation with the new urban agenda and sustainable development goals

AbstractGlobal cities are the arena of several socioenvironmental phenomena. To alleviate the disparities and catastrophes arising from the rapid process of urbanization, several nations have begun to pursue a common aim: sustainable development. In this regard, goals and parameters have been established by the United Nations (UN) to encourage debates aimed at the protection of the planet. Since 1930, discussions have sought to promote actions and rethink urban planning, for example, at the International Congress of Modern Architecture, which produced the Athens Charter. In this context, the study reported herein correlates the New Urban Agenda, which systematizes the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) together with the social functions of a city, a concept instigated by international legislation, charters and research to consolidate urban sustainability. As a proposed methodology, this study systemizes integrative data processing, with an applicable approach. In addition, a systematic analysis of the literature was carried out to create definitions and concepts on this theme. As a result, it was verified that social functions can and should integrate global urban policies, particularly when articulated with the SDGs and the New Urban Agenda.