Urban Demand Research Articles

A spatial-temporal hierarchical modeling framework for multi-step ride-hailing demand forecasting

Forecasting urban ride-hailing demand is the main duty in Intelligent Transportation Systems. Accurate predicting can significantly improve the efficiency of regional capacity allocation, promoting energy conversation and emission reduction. Currently, the mainstream approaches utilize advanced deep learning-based methods to model aspects of both temporal and spatial. However, these previous methods overlook the long-term temporal dependence of selection and the hierarchical nature of urban road networks. To this end, we propose a novel Spatial-Temporal Hierarchical Network (STHNet) for urban ride-hailing demand prediction. Specially, The Depthwise Separable Convolution Nerual Networks (DSCNNs) extract spatial features of the road network through channel-wise and point-wise convolution operations, while the Nested Long Short-Term Memory networks (NLSTMs) are used to capture the hierarchical temporal dependencies in sequential data. DSCNNs and NLSTMs are cascaded to form the basic module of the multi-step prediction framework, called Spatial-Temporal Hierarchical block. The block can be easily extended to other spatial-temporal modeling tasks. At the end of the network, we introduce a 3DCNN to learn Spatial-Temporal heterogeneity and integrate information. Furthermore, Teacher Forcing and secondary information are incorporated into STHNet to enhance training efficiency. Extensive experiment are conducted on a Xiamen transportation network with 64 regions shows that STHNet outperforms multiple State-Of-The-Art baselines. The qualitative results underscoring the practical engineering applicability of the proposed model.

Urban Air Mobility demand forecasting: modeling evidence from the case study of Milan (Italy)

This paper presents the results of a demand forecasting study about the introduction of Urban Air Mobility (UAM) services in the metropolitan area of Milan (Italy). Demand forecasting is based on random utility mode choice models, which include factors related to the individuals’ perception of vertical take-off/landing and low altitude flying over urbanized areas. The use cases of UAM services include airport shuttles, intercity air connections, and “air-taxis”, i.e., UAM services for short-trips within the metropolitan area. Several scenarios have been considered based on the number of access points (“vertiports”) and UAM fare levels. The results indicate that airport shuttles have a modal share of trips to/from airports (for both business and leisure) in a range of 2-5%. They resulted to be more attractive than air-taxis, which have a modal share in a range of 1-3%. Furthermore, the probability of choosing UAM services for intercity travels decreases with the distance and the time required for access/egress to/from the vertiports, whose catchment areas are dependent on the level of service provided by competing modes (notably the presence of good railway and highway connections).

MULTIFUNCTION CONCRETE ROADWAYS POTENTIALS IN URBAN AREAS

This paper, authored by J.P. Christory and G. Bonnet from the French Public Works Ministry, highlights the advancements in multifunctional concrete pavements within urban settings, particularly in France. As urban populations demand better quality of life, including reduced noise, pollution, and improved safety, the traditional role of pavements extends beyond mere durability and cost-efficiency. This paper explores the shift towards pavements that also offer aesthetic value, noise reduction, and enhanced environmental performance. The concept of Porous Urban Pavements (PUPs) is introduced as a response to these expanded roles, integrating functions like water management, noise attenuation, and improved safety through innovative material compositions and designs. These pavements are classified based on their multifunctionality, showing varied applications in urban environments to address specific disturbances like noise, water pollution, and traffic safety. Regulatory frameworks, such as the French Noise Law and water management regulations, support the development and implementation of such pavements, reflecting a broader commitment to environmental and quality of life improvements in urban planning. The paper discusses the technical, regulatory, and societal factors driving the adoption of multifunction pavements, including detailed examples of their application in French urban projects. It concludes that the multifunction pavement approach is becoming a necessity in urban development, aligning with broader objectives of sustainability, environmental stewardship, and improved urban living conditions. (Abstract generated by AI tool ChatGPT 4)

Scaling laws of urban heavy truck mobility

Heavy truck mobility is crucial in serving urban freight supply and demand, but it can also lead to traffic accidents, high energy consumption and pollutant emissions. Exploring the statistical characteristics of heavy truck mobility is highly important for efficiently managing cities and enhancing sustainable urban development. In this paper, we review some scaling laws of urban heavy truck mobility, including the allometry of urban heavy truck mobility and some scaling laws observed in collective mobility networks and individual mobility trajectories of urban heavy trucks. We also introduce models that explain the underlying mechanisms of these scaling laws. We further provide an outlook for future research on urban heavy truck mobility.

Integration of Traditional Agricultural Systems with the Concept of Sustainable Agriculture: Opportunities and Challenges

Traditional agriculture has long been an integral part of agrarian systems in various regions, yet global challenges such as climate change and urbanization demand more sustainable approaches. This study aims to explore the opportunities and challenges of integrating traditional agricultural systems with sustainable agriculture concepts through a literature review method. The findings reveal that traditional practices, such as crop rotation and organic fertilization, align with sustainability principles. However, there is a need to enhance efficiency through the application of modern technologies such as precision irrigation and integrated pest management. This integration faces significant challenges, including farmers' limited access to technology and a lack of supportive policies. The study highlights the importance of contextual approaches, farmer training, and cross-sector collaboration to optimize the potential of this integration. Thus, the findings provide relevant insights for developing sustainable agricultural policies and practices in Indonesia and other countries.

Urban Trees and Elderly Well-Being: Species-Specific Strategies for Thermal Comfort in Heat-Stressed Cities

The dual challenges of global aging and intensifying urban heat demand innovative, evidence-based strategies to foster thermally and psychologically comfortable environments for vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly. Despite the documented benefits of urban greenery, the species-specific impacts of urban trees on thermal comfort and well-being remain underexplored. This study investigates how distinct tree species—Camphora officinarum (camphor), Platanus acerifolia (London plane), and Ginkgo biloba (ginkgo)—regulate urban microclimates and support elderly well-being during hot summer days. Conducted at five sites in Shanghai, including a control site and four vegetated plots, this study engaged 210 elderly participants. Microclimatic variables were measured using the physiological equivalent temperature (PET) alongside air temperature, humidity, and wind speed. Physiological responses, assessed through heart rate variability (HRV), and psychological outcomes, evaluated via validated self-report scales, were analyzed. The results revealed that dense-canopy trees significantly reduced PET, enhanced thermal comfort, and improved ROS and SVS scores, while lower LF/HF ratios indicated reduced physiological stress. Correlation analyses underscored the pivotal role of canopy density (SVF) in fostering psychological and physiological well-being. Camphor and London plane trees consistently provided the greatest benefits, emphasizing the importance of species selection in urban greening strategies. These findings underscore the critical role of species selection in urban forestry to mitigate heat stress and foster age-friendly resilience. Practical implications emphasize integrating dense-canopy species into urban landscapes to enhance microclimate regulation and public health.

Wood fuel consumption in the city of Barcelona in the medieval and early modern periods. An overview based on archaeological wood charcoal analysis

AbstractWood fuel was essential for urban development in the Mediterranean area during the Middle Ages. Therefore, wood gathering practices and supply can be investigated through the study of wood-charcoal fragments obtained from urban archaeological contexts. This paper considers anthracological remains from 14 archaeological rescue-interventions in Barcelona (NE Iberia), to reconstruct the city’s wood-fuel usage from the 6th to the 17th century ce. The diachronic anthracological sequence, compared with a previous study of the Roman period, reveals significant changes in the city's energy supply and woodland impact over time. Between the 6th and 13th centuries ce, there was a reduction in Quercus ilex (holm oak) wood exploitation and an increase in the use of shrubby vegetation, due to oak woodland degradation, partly caused by agriculture and grazing expansion. The growing use of vine, olive and other fruit tree prunings during the Middle Ages indicates the spread of arboriculture in the Barcelona plain. Furthermore, despite local oak woodland regression, evergreen and deciduous oak wood usage increased from the 14th century onwards, due to fuel imports to meet the growing urban energy demands. Differences in fuel consumption among the city’s socio-economic sectors are discussed, revealing discrepancy between urban fuel and that used outside the city walls on the shore. Finally the fuel used in some urban productive activities is also examined, highlighting a heterogeneous range of solutions, based on local availability and convenience. Overall, this research provides the first extensive diachronic analysis of fuel consumption in a Mediterranean city, illustrating the importance of archaeobotany for understanding pre-industrial urban resource management.

Strength characteristics and prediction model of solidified municipal sludge reinforced by dredged silt combined with sodium silicate and polyurethane

The treatment and resource utilization of municipal sludge and dredged silt have been rendered urgent by the acceleration of urbanization and stricter environmental protection demands. An effective solution was developed to address the challenges of poor mechanical properties and the difficulty in directly using cement-based materials for municipal sludge treatment. The utilization of dredged silt with high water content served as the foundational skeleton material. Appropriate proportion (0.5:1.0) of sodium silicate, which accelerates cement hardening, and polyurethane, which facilitates chemical bond cooperation, was combined to form SP material, partially replacing cement. Unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests were subsequently conducted on the solidified municipal sludge. These tests aimed to investigate the influence of the dredged silt mixing ratio, initial water content of dredged silt, and the SP mixing ratio on the strength of the solidified municipal sludge. Furthermore, a strength prediction model was established for solidified municipal sludge, taking into consideration the mixing ratios of dredged silt and SP. The research findings indicate that dredged silt can serve as a skeleton structure for solidified municipal sludge. The UCS of the solidified municipal sludge increases with the increase in the dredged silt mixing ratio, and reaches a maximum value at mixing ratio of 1.0. SP materials can partially replace cement, the appropriate proportion of SP and cement can synergistically improve the strength of solidified municipal sludge, and the optimal SP mixing ratio is 50%. Furthermore, the strength prediction model constructed with independent variables such as dredged silt mixing ratio, curing age, water-to-cement ratio, and SP mixing ratio demonstrates better predictability for the strength development of solidified municipal sludge.

Modeling and Analyzing the Spatiotemporal Travel Patterns of Bike Sharing: A Case Study of Citi Bike in New York

As the urban transportation demand continues to grow, the effective management and optimization of bike-sharing systems are of significant importance for urban planning and transportation engineering. This study aims to identify the spatiotemporal distribution of the peak-period departures and arrivals of bike sharing within Manhattan, New York, and to analyze the community clustering patterns and their underlying rules. Additionally, a comparative analysis across multiple time periods was conducted to enhance the research’s practical value. This study utilized GPS trajectory data from the New York City bike-sharing system for 2023. After analyzing the travel patterns throughout the year, we selected August, the month with the highest usage, to study the origin-destination (OD) travel aggregation patterns using flow models and the theoretical constructs of travel networks, measuring and analyzing travel characteristics. Subsequently, community detection algorithms were applied to analyze the clustering patterns and relationships among various neighborhoods. The findings revealed that the use of bike sharing in New York exhibits an overall trend of increasing and then decreasing throughout the year, with significantly higher usage in the spring and summer compared to the fall and winter. Notably, August saw the highest usage levels, with hotspots primarily concentrated in the southwestern part of Manhattan, which is also the economic center of New York City. The OD aggregation patterns across the upper, middle, and lower parts of August show distinct variations. Through community analysis, several strongly associated neighborhood clusters were identified, which exhibited both aggregation and dispersion trends over time. In southern Manhattan, a community with high modularity emerged, showcasing strong interconnections among neighborhoods. These findings provide valuable insights into the usage patterns of bike sharing in New York and the factors influencing them, offering significant implications for the optimization of bike-sharing system operations and planning.

Comprehensive Analysis of Taxi Service Distribution, Demand Hot spots, and Air Pollution Impact: A GIS and Big Data Approach

As urban transportation demand increases, optimizing taxi services is critical for improving traffic flow and reducing environmental impact. This study investigates the spatial distribution of taxi services, demand hotspots, and their relation to air pollution using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), big data, and land use analysis. After collecting and processing taxi GPS data, we identified high-demand areas such as airports and commercial centers. We then overlaid this data with air pollution monitoring information to analyze potential correlations. The analysis revealed significant overlaps between regions of frequent taxi operation and elevated pollution levels. Using spatio-temporal models, we predicted demand patterns across different periods and explored the connection between land use (commercial, residential, and industrial zones) and traffic congestion. The results show that taxi services contribute significantly to air quality deterioration in densely populated and commercially active areas. These findings suggest that optimized taxi dispatch and fleet redistribution strategies could not only enhance operational efficiency but also alleviate air pollution in urban centers. This study provides actionable insights for policymakers and taxi companies to develop data-driven approaches to urban transportation management, reducing air pollution while improving service efficiency.

Sustainable development in the renovation of historical buildings: the example of the Panoffs' Mansion in Wuhan

This study examines the energy-efficient transformation of Panoffs’ Mansion in Wuhan, integrating sustainability into urban renewal while preserving historical integrity. Through a qualitative methodology, the research employs field observations, literature reviews, and case studies. It explores how adaptive reuse of heritage structures can meet contemporary energy standards and urban demands, balancing preservation with modernization. This approach illuminates the potential of sustainable practices in revitalizing historical buildings, promoting a model for low-carbon urban development.

Driving range estimation for electric bus based on atomic orbital search and back propagation neural network

AbstractAs urbanization and transportation demands continue to increase, electric buses play an important role in sustainable urban development thanks to their advantages of emission reduction, noise and pollution reduction. However, electric buses still face some challenges, in which, range anxiety is one of the main factors limiting its popularization. To solve this problem, an accurate estimation method for the driving range of electric buses based on atomic orbital search (AOS) algorithm and back propagation neural network (BPNN) was used, in which a long‐term bus operation dataset under different driving conditions is utilized to train BPNN, and then weight and bias are taken as the first generation provided for AOS approach to find a more appropriate parameter combination. Simulation and experimental analysis show that the algorithm introduced in this paper has higher prediction accuracy and efficiency compared to the traditional machine learning algorithms, that compared with BPNN, AOSBP reduced MAE, RMSE and MAPE by 85.6%, 50.9% and 64.6%, respectively, which effectively relieves range anxiety, and ensures the normal operation of the electric bus fleet.

Treated Wastewater by Selected Microalgae for Irrigation

Water is a major natural resource that supplies our demands in a precise manner. We must conserve and utilise every drop of water. Irrigation is considered the primary user of freshwater. Irrigation of land accounts for about 80% of overall freshwater usage. Reusing treated waste water could be an alternative method for increasing water resources. Many countries are using wastewater as an irrigation resource to meet urban demand and manage water scarcity. Microalgae-based water treatment is a viable bio refinery approach that promotes environmental and economic sustainability. Phycoremediation is a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, secure, and substitute method for wastewater treatment. In a polite lab experiment lasting 30 days, two microalgal strains Chlorella vulgaris and Trichormus variabilis were used as bioremediation agents for sewage water collected from Bahr El-Baqar, El- El-Sharkya Governorate, Egypt. The goal of the current study was to assess how inoculated microalgae (Chlorella vulgaris and Trichormus variabilis) contributed to the phycoremediation of sewage effluent, and then a pot experiment was conducted to test the water's potential for use in ornamental plant irrigation, due to decrease water consumption of fresh water. The study's findings revealed that sewage wastewater had a decrease in pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, phosphorous, potassium, ammonium, nitrate, biological oxygen demand, and chemical oxygen demand after 30 days of experimentation, some heavy metals were absorbed by both algal strains, while others were practically completely removed. Moreover, the treated waste water could be used for irrigation of ornamental plant.

Urbanization governance approaches for the sustainability of WEF resources: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Urbanization is a socioeconomic and geopolitical issue that affects the sustainability of resources. Therefore, this study uses Mean Item Score (MIS) and structural equation modelling (SEM) to analyse urbanization governance for the sustainability of WEF resources. The study established urbanization measures that significantly affect the WEF nexus and the urban governance approaches for WEF Nexus sustainability. The research findings revealed that urbanization has a statistically significant effect on the sustainability of the WEF nexus through indicators of urban place (population size and employment status), over-urbanization (overpopulation) and urban primacy. Moreover, the study revealed three urban governance approaches to ensuring the sustainability of the WEF nexus: Circular economy business models in the CBD, migration-orientated urban infrastructures and demand–pull governance modes for urban poverty. This study concludes with two policy recommendations for redesigning migration documents with WEF statistics and repurposing urban areas.

PROJETO DE INFRAESTRUTURA DE PAVIMENTAÇÃO ASFÁLTICA, DRENAGEM PLUVIAL E ORÇAMENTO DO NOVO LOTEAMENTO PRÓXIMO AO BAIRRO VALE DO OURO EM TOCANTINS-MG

This article presents the infrastructure project for the development of a new urban subdivision near the Vale do Ouro neighborhood in the municipality of Tocantins, MG. The proposal encompasses the construction of asphalt paving for both main and secondary roads, the implementation of a stormwater drainage system designed to prevent flooding, and the preparation of a detailed budget to optimize the financial resources applied to the project. The pavement and drainage infrastructure is essential to ensure road durability and the safety of future residents, protecting residential areas from issues such as erosion, flooding, and soil degradation. This project thus aims to meet urbanization demands and provide a higher quality of life, contributing to the sustainable and orderly development of Tocantins. To achieve this, technical studies, field surveys, and budget projections have been conducted to enable a complete and functional project, aligned with modern standards for urban infrastructure safety and comfort.

A new approach to analyse from monitored data the performance, matching capability and grid usage of large Rooftop Photovoltaic systems. Case of study: Photovoltaic system of 1.05 MW installed at the campus of University of Jaén

Rooftop photovoltaic installations highlight their potential to meet a significant portion of urban electricity demand. These systems range from a few kW in residential areas to hundreds of kW in large Rooftop PV systems in commercial and industrial settings. The latter, which may include several inverters or arrays with different orientations and inclinations, require a proper analysis to assess the potential of this technology and to ensure the design objectives. This paper presents a methodology for analysing from monitored data large Rooftop PV systems, focusing on performance, self-consumption and grid usage. The approach is scalable, applicable at the inverter, individual Rooftop PV and global system levels. New key parameters defined include weighted system irradiation (HI,weighted) and weighted system reference yield (Yr,weighted), which account for different array orientations and inclinations. The methodology is validated using a 1.05 MW system at the University of Jaén with monitored data over a year. Results indicate subsystem and system PR values above 0.83 and a system Capacity Factor of 0.19, confirming a proper performance. Annual self-consumption and self-sufficiency indices of 97.5 % and 17.7 %, respectively, and a solar hour self-sufficiency of 27.7 % reveal minimal energy export and substantial potential to meet the university’s electricity demand.

Optimization of bus stop layout considering multiple factors including passenger flow direction.

Bus stop layout typically requires consideration of urban population distribution, traffic conditions, and passenger flow demand to establish an efficient foundation for the bus system's operation. Based on the above key factors, this paper introduces a strategic method to optimize the bus stop layout from a macro perspective in order to save passengers' travel time and improve the attractiveness of the bus system. This approach accounts for the matching degree between the Origin-Destination (OD) direction of passengers and their walking direction heading to bus stops. Initially, we take into account factors such as the population and area of traffic districts, and urban road conditions. Utilizing the hypernetwork multidimensional data clustering method along with GIS technology, we construct an alternative set of bus stops based on the hypernetwork framework. This set serves as a reference for the positioning of newly built and moved bus stops. Subsequently, we develop a two-stage model for bus stop layout decision-making. The first stage focuses on determining the bus stop layout at the traffic district level, taking into account multi-factors including the passenger flow matching degree. The second stage is designed to mitigate the negative impact of bus stop optimization on the overall service level of the urban bus system. A case study conducted in XT city demonstrates the effectiveness of our approach. Post-optimization, there is a 15.83% increase in the alignment between passenger flow direction and bus stop layout. Additionally, the average travel time for passengers is reduced by 7.55 minutes.

A novel approach to modeling urban commuting traffic demands

The scientific prediction of urban commuting traffic demands can support rational urban planning for population distribution, enterprise placement, and the coordination of land use and transportation. This study develops an Urban Commuting Model (UCM) that integrates both spatial and temporal aspects: Spatially, changes in employment or population distribution lead to changes in commuting patterns; Temporally, the commuting patterns of the previous year form the basis for the patterns of the following year. The UCM, based on historical commuting matrix, simulates urban traffic demands under various scenarios of urban residential population and employment planning. In a case study, the proposed model was used to simulate urban traffic demands in Beijing under the construction scenario of the city's sub-center in Tongzhou. The case study demonstrates that the UCM can effectively predict urban traffic demands under different land use and transportation scenarios, providing informative policy implications at an early planning stage. This study offers a novel approach for simulating urban traffic demands and is a valuable addition to the existing literature.

11.D. Scientific session: Participatory approaches and co-creation in complex interventions to reduce inequity in health

Abstract The escalating challenges posed by climate change and rapid urbanization demand an integrated understanding of how our natural and built environments influence health outcomes. This workshop aims to dissect the complex associations between the environment-both natural and constructed-and physical and mental health. The urgency and breadth of these issues necessitate a multidisciplinary approach, leveraging insights from environmental science, public health, and urban planning. The primary objective of this workshop is to elucidate the multifaceted relationships between environmental conditions and health, identifying actionable strategies to mitigate adverse health outcomes and enhance well-being. Specific goals include: i) to assess the current scientific evidence linking various environmental factors with health, highlighting the role of climate change; ii) to explore innovative methodologies for studying environmental impacts on health; and iii) to foster collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and practitioners for integrated health and environmental planning. Organizing this workshop presents several unique added values. First, it serves as a platform for experts from diverse fields to share findings and refine research methodologies. Second, by synthesizing current knowledge, the workshop will inform more coherent and science-based public health and urban policy. Lastly, it could facilitate networking among stakeholders, fostering collaborations that bridge gaps between research and policy implementation. The workshop is structured to ensure thematic coherence and maximally beneficial interactions among participants. Presentations will be grouped into four thematic blocks: 1. effects of climate change on health; 2. healthy design and public mental health; 3. Planetary health challenges to human health; 4. Climate change perception and mental health. During the workshop, each speech will be built on the previous one in a sequential way. At the end of the workshop, audience members could join the discussion offering their point of view and directly interacting with the speakers. This workshop stands as a crucial endeavor to integrate diverse perspectives on how environmental conditions impact health and to catalyze significant strides in public health and urban planning. It promises to not only advance scientific understanding but also to translate this knowledge into practical, scalable solutions for health resilience in our communities. Key messages • Urban health is foundational for sustainable cities, integrating health into all policies ensures inclusive, safe, resilient communities as outlined in SDG 11. • Public health influenced by environmental and local government strategies highlights the need for multidisciplinary approaches to adapt urban planning and health policies.

Managing the deployment of telecommunication towers in Ghana: an urban-integrated sustainable approach

ABSTRACT Telecommunication plays a crucial role in the modern society, and its importance in Ghana’s rapid digital and economic transformation is very relevant. Ghana is however confronted with huge telecommunication towers doted in the skylines of its major cities with some towers mounted in homes and on roof top of structures. The objective of this research was to investigate the major challenges associated with the urban deployment of the towers and suggest sustainable approach to its deployment. Using quantitative descriptive design, data was collected from the three leading telecommunication companies in Ghana receiving a response rate of 77.6%. Analysis of responses showed that, land acquisition and use challenges, compliance with regulatory and statutory issues, community occupational health issues, neighbourhood challenges and urban planning regulations are the key factors that affect the deployment of towers in Ghana. The research postulates that the urban deployment of telecommunication towers would require an integrated and regulated planning approach that constrains environmental impact, diminishes land use, optimises existing urban infrastructure through co-location and the deployment of advanced technologies such as Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellites, High Altitude Platforms (HAPs) and Long-Term Evolution (LTE) and 5G in managing the growing urban demand for urban telecommunication.