8.2D Principles of ecological urban planning (HL) Notes

Ecological Urban Planning Principles: Compactness, Mixed Land Use, and Social Mix

1. Ecological urban planning not only prioritizes sustainability but also integrates practices that enhance the quality of life, reduce environmental impact, and promote social equity.
2. Three key principles of ecological urban planning are urban compactness, mixed land use, and social mix.

These principles help create sustainable and inclusive urban environments that address environmental, economic, and social needs.

Urban Compactness

Urban compactness refers to the practice of creating cities with higher density, meaning buildings and infrastructure are closely packed together.

The goal is to minimize the spread of urban areas into rural or natural ecosystems, thus reducing urban sprawl.

Sustainable Advantages:

1. Reduced Urban Sprawl:
   1. By limiting the outward expansion of cities, compact urban areas preserve surrounding natural landscapes, agricultural lands, and wildlife habitats.
2. Less Car Dependency:
   1. Denser cities promote walking and cycling, reducing the need for private vehicles.
   2. This reduces traffic congestion, lowers air pollution, and decreases carbon emissions.
3. Energy Efficiency:
   1. Higher density areas can more effectively use resources like energy, water, and public transport.
   2. Buildings in compact areas can share infrastructure, making energy distribution more efficient.
4. Better Public Transport:
   1. Compact cities are more conducive to developing integrated, reliable, and efficient public transport systems, making transportation more affordable and accessible for all residents.
5. Increased Accessibility:
   1. Essential services (schools, hospitals, shops) are located closer together in compact cities, making them more accessible to residents, especially for those who cannot afford private transportation.

Mixed Land Use

Mixed land use involves designing urban spaces where residential, commercial, recreational, and industrial activities are integrated within the same area.

This practice encourages diverse and vibrant neighborhoods and reduces the need for long commutes.

Sustainable Advantages:

1. Reduced Energy Consumption:
   1. Mixed land use minimizes the need for long-distance travel by combining living, working, and recreational spaces in proximity.
   2. This reduces the overall carbon footprint of residents.
2. Increased Walkability:
   1. With a variety of services and facilities within walking distance, mixed-use urban areas promote walking and reduce the reliance on cars, contributing to healthier lifestyles and a lower environmental impact.
3. Enhanced Social Interaction:
   1. A diverse mix of people living and working in the same area promotes greater social cohesion and community-building, as people from different backgrounds interact more regularly.
4. Economic Vibrancy:
   1. Mixed-use areas provide diverse opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs, helping to stimulate local economies and create jobs.

Social Mix

This includes affordable housing options, equitable access to amenities, and the integration of marginalized communities into the urban fabric.

Sustainable Advantages:

1. Social Equity:
   1. Ensures that all residents, regardless of income or background, have access to essential services, green spaces, and opportunities.
   2. This helps avoid social segregation and promotes fairness in urban development.
2. Environmental Justice:
   1. Ensuring equitable access to green spaces, public transport, and clean air is a matter of environmental justice.
   2. When lower-income communities are excluded from these benefits, they are disproportionately affected by pollution and environmental degradation.
3. Community Resilience:
   1. Diverse communities tend to be more resilient in the face of environmental and social challenges.
   2. A social mix encourages collaboration and support networks among residents.
4. Increased Access to Green Areas:
   1. Integrating green spaces into urban planning, especially in marginalized areas, ensures that all residents benefit from the mental, physical, and ecological advantages that these spaces offer.