Alessio Russo | University of Gloucestershire (original) (raw)

Books by Alessio Russo

The modern compact city is identified as a high-density and mixed-use pattern. Its features are b... more The modern compact city is identified as a high-density and mixed-use pattern. Its features are believed to contribute to a form of functional urban design that supports sustainability and, restresses, the importance of ecosystem services. Urban green space (UGS) plays a vital role in the design and impact on how compact cities have developed and triggered a scientific discord on the amount of greenery individuals require and to what extent contemporary approaches address the question. Research points to at least 9 m 2 of green space per individual with an ideal UGS value of 50 m 2 per capita. An examination on the perception, use, quality, accessibility and health risks of urban green and blue spaces is explored, alongside the availability of novel UGS and greenery-related approaches that investigate compact city design and planning for health and wellbeing. The amount of 'green' and relating UGS availability in cities indicates vital knowledge modern compact cities must consider.

More than half the world’s population now lives in cities. According to a United Nations report, ... more More than half the world’s population now lives in cities. According to a United Nations report, urbanisation combined with overall growth of population could add another 2.5 billion people to urban areas by 2050. As a result of urbanisation, many cities are facing social and environmental problems that have seriously compromised citizens’ health and wellbeing: the urban heat island effect, CO2
emissions, soil sealing, biodiversity loss, air, water and soil pollution and climate
change. Holistic planning is needed to tackle these problems, integrating nature-based thinking into urban environmental development. Research indicates that sustainable and smart biophilic cities achieve and maintain a higher
standard of living than others and project higher living standards the longer they operate. The idea of biophilic cities is inspired by conservationist E. O. Wilson’s concept of ‘biophilia’ that invokes our innate affinity with nature and maintains that increased integration with nature within an urban landscape has human benefits. A biophilic approach that enhances green infrastructure can provide significant gains for cities, including a wide range of ecosystem services and an improvement in the social and psychological condition of residents. This paper discusses exploratory ideas relating to the advantages of biophilic cities.

Papers by Alessio Russo

EKLIPSE Expert Working Group. UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Wallingford, UK, Jun 1, 2020

for their review and valuable comments, as well as the suggestions and advice from anonymous revi... more for their review and valuable comments, as well as the suggestions and advice from anonymous reviewers.

Sustainability

Addressing the challenge of climate adaptation necessitates an evidence-based approach. The integ... more Addressing the challenge of climate adaptation necessitates an evidence-based approach. The integration of nature into urban spaces is vital in mitigating the effects of climate change, which can be accomplished through the regeneration of grey areas. Consequently, the incorporation of nature-based solutions (NBS) becomes indispensable for the creation of climate-resilient public spaces. However, only a few studies have considered climate change simulated data to design climate-resilient spaces in the UK. Thus, in this study, we evaluated the benefits of two scenarios for regenerating an existing car park space in Cheltenham with 30% and 50% NBS. These design scenarios were the outcomes of a 3-day design workshop aiming to create a climate-resilient public space with NBS. Using ENVI-met software (version 5.0.3) and weather data for the second-highest heatwave in Cheltenham, UK, in 2017 and 2050 predictions, we analysed temperature impacts. Results show NBS could reduce the mean radi...

Biodiversity and Conservation

Plant blindness remains an understudied Anthropocentric concept. There is a societal naivety to t... more Plant blindness remains an understudied Anthropocentric concept. There is a societal naivety to the importance of plants, and lack of awareness of the human impact of plant life, which renders many 'plant blind'. This research develops a Plant Blindness (PB) scale to address plant blindness within a botanic and urban space, pursuing an investigation into the motivations and beliefs of people in terms of plant awareness, plant fascination and conservationist efforts. Interviews with specialists within botany and horticulture suggest how we might better understand and utilise the function of botanic gardens' within an urban context, using botanic spaces to further amplify societal interest in plant life, thus challenging plant blindness. Botanic gardens' document collections of living plants, researching and setting exemplar sustainable and ethical standards for the conservation and cultivation of rare and threatened plants, educating and bringing global plant conservation to the forefront of our natural world. Botanic gardens research innovation, scientific knowledge, heritage and expertise in sustaining a globally diverse range of plant species could be advantageous in the future design of urban spaces. It is through establishing active engagement between botanic spaces and urban spaces that plant blindness can be challenged, establishing a future vision for botanic gardens and botanic spaces, exploring the role botany could adopt within society.

Sustainability

Brownfield regeneration using a rewilding approach could provide an opportunity to create new gre... more Brownfield regeneration using a rewilding approach could provide an opportunity to create new green spaces in our cities. However, studies on public perceptions of rewilding projects are limited. Thus, the purpose of this study was to better understand the public’s perspective of brownfield regeneration and the perceived advantages that these regenerations may give if regenerated as urban green areas as part of rewilding projects. An online survey containing 21 dichotomous and multiple-choice items was created to learn about people’s preferences for brownfield regeneration, the advantages of urban rewilding, and the value of biodiversity in urban contexts. Results show that most people are aware of the benefits of urban regeneration and receptive to the idea of rewilding for urban resilience. Our findings raise awareness of the possibility of regenerating abandoned lots to create accessible green spaces for our communities.

City, Territory and Architecture

Book detailsWillemijn Wilms FloetURBAN OASES Dutch Hofjes as Hidden Architectural Gems.nai010 pub... more Book detailsWillemijn Wilms FloetURBAN OASES Dutch Hofjes as Hidden Architectural Gems.nai010 publishers, 2021.ISBN 978-94-6208-660-9.€ 39.95, paperback (Also available in Dutch and as e-book in English and Dutch).pp. 208, with illustrations (220 full color).

Sustainability

Several studies have indicated that children who grow up in green environments enjoy beneficial i... more Several studies have indicated that children who grow up in green environments enjoy beneficial impacts on their development. However, to date, very little attention has been paid to the types and characteristics of dedicated public open green space for children. In addition, studies on biophilic design that could help landscape architects to design open spaces for children are limited. In order to fill this gap, this perspective examines the scientific literature on the relationship between open spaces and children. The authors specifically discuss and analyze the following points: (1) pathways to and effects on children’s health and well-being; (2) types and characteristics of open spaces for child-dedicated facilities (e.g., schools, hospitals, fitness camps, playgrounds, etc.), as well as for child-friendly urban open spaces. Finally, the authors provide inspiring examples and case studies of biophilic design for children’s health and well-being. Conclusions from this perspectiv...

Wetlands

This paper aimed to investigate the driving factors for the creation of urban wetlands and their ... more This paper aimed to investigate the driving factors for the creation of urban wetlands and their functions and uses. A mixed methods approach was used, comprising an online survey for the general public and structured interviews with four urban wetland 'experts'. Quantitative data was obtained from the survey, and cross tabulation was used to analyse relationships between variables. Thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data from the interviews. It was found that one of the urban wetlands was created for flood control and to create an amenity space, whilst the driving factors for the other three urban wetlands were associated with biodiversity and habitat creation, which was also perceived as the most important function of an urban wetland from the survey participants. Three themes emerged from the thematic analysis: 'wildlife conservation interest'; 'landscape character development'; and 'urban wetland as an amenity space'. The survey found that participants perceived climate resiliency as an important function of wetlands, despite this not being a driving factor for the four wetlands in the interviews. Survey participants would be willing to invest time in visiting a non-local wetland landscape to encounter nature and contribute to their quality of life and wellbeing. The results of this research may be useful to inform the planning, design and management of urban wetlands as they evolve towards being a multi-use spaces. More education and awareness are needed about the benefits of these landscapes to wildlife, the environment and local communities.

Following the Brundtland Report in the early 1990s, the relationship between biodiversity and hum... more Following the Brundtland Report in the early 1990s, the relationship between biodiversity and human wellbeing became a topic of public debate and scientific research [1]. Nowadays, biodiverse cities can provide ecosystem services as well as mental health and wellbeing. Biodiverse cities have a critical role in delivering services and infrastructure, addressing inequity, and regulating environments that influence human health [2]. Several urban health issues may be handled with adequate planning and resources, resulting in mutual advantages for human and environmental health [2]. However, the health effects of biodiversity loss are becoming more well recognised. Ecosystem functioning is affected by biodiversity changes, and substantial ecosystem disturbances can result in life-sustaining ecosystem goods and services [3]. As a result, initiatives for increasing and conserving biodiversity in cities are required. This research examines case studies of urban green infrastructure, best p...

Consilience: journal of sustainable development, 2017

Hypothetical research into how the introduction and utilization of Environmental Management Syste... more Hypothetical research into how the introduction and utilization of Environmental Management Systems (EMS) could be instituted into Nigeria’s higher education scheme, as a means to improve environmental awareness and sustainable development practices on university campuses, is explored. Qualitative methodologies are utilized based on reviewed literature, semi-structured interviews, personal experiences and structured questionnaires. Reported two-year findings illustrate that effective potential EMS for Nigeria’s higher education, demands policy-oriented government directives and commitments in terms of strict regulatory legislation and coordination of related management support. While EMS implementation blockage is due to a lack of government initiative and managerial commitment accompaniment throughout Nigeria’s overall education sector. This blockage includes inadequate salary structures, lack of funding, insufficient academic curriculum and disconnect between universities and soci...

Commons Attribution (CC BY) license, which allows users to download, copy and build upon publishe... more Commons Attribution (CC BY) license, which allows users to download, copy and build upon published articles, as long as the author and publisher are properly credited, which ensures maximum dissemination and a wider impact of our publications. The book as a whole is distributed by MDPI under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND.

Land

Despite the well-known benefits of healing gardens for children in healthcare facilities, policie... more Despite the well-known benefits of healing gardens for children in healthcare facilities, policies and guidelines for their implementation are lacking, leading to their undervaluation by policymakers. This literature review investigates the advantages of healing gardens for children’s health and wellbeing, with a focus on public-funded healthcare facilities. The review explores the definition of a healing garden, theories, the value of play, the impact on children’s development, and the environmental benefits of healing gardens. Additionally, the review presents successful examples of healing gardens in practice, while acknowledging potential arguments against them and associated risks. During the literature review, research gaps were identified, and areas for future research were also examined. Finally, this review calls for evidence-based guidelines for policymakers and designers to incorporate healing gardens into healthcare facilities, providing a comprehensive argument for thei...

Land

The dynamic and heterogeneity of the urban heat island (UHI) is the result of the interactions be... more The dynamic and heterogeneity of the urban heat island (UHI) is the result of the interactions between biotic, physical, social, and built components. Urban ecology as a transdisciplinary science can provide a context to understand the complex social–biophysical issues such as the thermal environment in cities. This study aimed at developing a theoretical framework to elucidate the interactions between the social–biophysical patterns and processes mediating UHI. To do it, we conducted a theoretical review to delineate UHI complexity using the concept of dynamic heterogeneity of pattern, process, and function in UHI phenomenon. Furthermore, a hypothetical heterogeneity spiral (i.e., driver-outcome spiral) related to the UHI was conceived as a model template. The adopted theoretical framework can provide a holistic vision of the UHI, contributing to a better understanding of UHI’s spatial variations in long-term studies. Through the developed framework, we can devise appropriate metho...

Urban Planning

In recent years, the pressing environmental, social, and economic problems affecting cities have ... more In recent years, the pressing environmental, social, and economic problems affecting cities have resulted in the integration of the disciplines of landscape architecture and urban forestry via a transdisciplinary approach to urban planning and design. Now, new urban forestry approaches and concepts have emerged for more sustainable city planning. The discipline is using different methods and approaches to address many pressing issues such as human well-being and also food security. But, research on these topics is still limited and not available for many cities in the world. To fill this gap, we present this thematic issue “From Smart Urban Forests to Edible Cities: New Approaches in Urban Planning and Design.” The findings from this thematic issue offer new insight to policymakers and practitioners, as well as contribute to the emerging literature on edible and forest cities. Furthermore, the findings spanning different cities from different geographies can be used towards achievin...

Sustainability

Green spaces unquestionably improve both physical and mental health, but there is little informat... more Green spaces unquestionably improve both physical and mental health, but there is little information on how they affect quality of life. This study investigates whether the public perception of how local green spaces and their impact on quality of life have altered as a result of restrictions imposed by the U.K.’s SARS-CoV-2 pandemic containment strategy. Qualitative data were collected using an online questionnaire distributed via social media platforms and postal flyers. The results clearly demonstrate that 90% of participants believe that green spaces improved their quality of life during the pandemic, with over 85% thinking that green spaces will continue to have a positive impact on their quality of life once the pandemic is over. Whether this is a permanent change in public thinking or a short-term adaptation to the stresses of the pandemic can be assessed in future research studies. More detailed research is required to understand more clearly the aspects and types of green s...

Land, 2021

The term ecosystem services was coined to describe the societal benefit that natural ecosystems p... more The term ecosystem services was coined to describe the societal benefit that natural ecosystems provide, as well as to raise awareness about biodiversity and ecosystem conservation [...]

Energies, 2021

This essay considers the rural-to-urban transition and correlates it with urban energy demands. T... more This essay considers the rural-to-urban transition and correlates it with urban energy demands. Three distinct themes are inspected and interrelated to develop awareness for an urbanizing world: internal urban design and innovation, technical transition, and geopolitical change. Data were collected on the use of energy in cities and, by extension, nation states over the last 30 years. The urban population boom continues to pressure the energy dimension with heavily weighted impacts on less developed regions. Sustainable urban energy will need to reduce resource inputs and environmental impacts and decouple economic growth from energy consumption. Fossil fuels continue to be the preferred method of energy for cities; however, an increased understanding is emerging that sustainable energy forms can be implemented as alternatives. Key to this transition will be the will to invest in renewables (i.e., solar, wind, hydro, tidal, geothermal, and biomass), efficient infrastructure, and sma...

The modern compact city is identified as a high-density and mixed-use pattern. Its features are b... more The modern compact city is identified as a high-density and mixed-use pattern. Its features are believed to contribute to a form of functional urban design that supports sustainability and, restresses, the importance of ecosystem services. Urban green space (UGS) plays a vital role in the design and impact on how compact cities have developed and triggered a scientific discord on the amount of greenery individuals require and to what extent contemporary approaches address the question. Research points to at least 9 m 2 of green space per individual with an ideal UGS value of 50 m 2 per capita. An examination on the perception, use, quality, accessibility and health risks of urban green and blue spaces is explored, alongside the availability of novel UGS and greenery-related approaches that investigate compact city design and planning for health and wellbeing. The amount of 'green' and relating UGS availability in cities indicates vital knowledge modern compact cities must consider.

More than half the world’s population now lives in cities. According to a United Nations report, ... more More than half the world’s population now lives in cities. According to a United Nations report, urbanisation combined with overall growth of population could add another 2.5 billion people to urban areas by 2050. As a result of urbanisation, many cities are facing social and environmental problems that have seriously compromised citizens’ health and wellbeing: the urban heat island effect, CO2
emissions, soil sealing, biodiversity loss, air, water and soil pollution and climate
change. Holistic planning is needed to tackle these problems, integrating nature-based thinking into urban environmental development. Research indicates that sustainable and smart biophilic cities achieve and maintain a higher
standard of living than others and project higher living standards the longer they operate. The idea of biophilic cities is inspired by conservationist E. O. Wilson’s concept of ‘biophilia’ that invokes our innate affinity with nature and maintains that increased integration with nature within an urban landscape has human benefits. A biophilic approach that enhances green infrastructure can provide significant gains for cities, including a wide range of ecosystem services and an improvement in the social and psychological condition of residents. This paper discusses exploratory ideas relating to the advantages of biophilic cities.

EKLIPSE Expert Working Group. UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Wallingford, UK, Jun 1, 2020

for their review and valuable comments, as well as the suggestions and advice from anonymous revi... more for their review and valuable comments, as well as the suggestions and advice from anonymous reviewers.

Sustainability

Addressing the challenge of climate adaptation necessitates an evidence-based approach. The integ... more Addressing the challenge of climate adaptation necessitates an evidence-based approach. The integration of nature into urban spaces is vital in mitigating the effects of climate change, which can be accomplished through the regeneration of grey areas. Consequently, the incorporation of nature-based solutions (NBS) becomes indispensable for the creation of climate-resilient public spaces. However, only a few studies have considered climate change simulated data to design climate-resilient spaces in the UK. Thus, in this study, we evaluated the benefits of two scenarios for regenerating an existing car park space in Cheltenham with 30% and 50% NBS. These design scenarios were the outcomes of a 3-day design workshop aiming to create a climate-resilient public space with NBS. Using ENVI-met software (version 5.0.3) and weather data for the second-highest heatwave in Cheltenham, UK, in 2017 and 2050 predictions, we analysed temperature impacts. Results show NBS could reduce the mean radi...

Biodiversity and Conservation

Plant blindness remains an understudied Anthropocentric concept. There is a societal naivety to t... more Plant blindness remains an understudied Anthropocentric concept. There is a societal naivety to the importance of plants, and lack of awareness of the human impact of plant life, which renders many 'plant blind'. This research develops a Plant Blindness (PB) scale to address plant blindness within a botanic and urban space, pursuing an investigation into the motivations and beliefs of people in terms of plant awareness, plant fascination and conservationist efforts. Interviews with specialists within botany and horticulture suggest how we might better understand and utilise the function of botanic gardens' within an urban context, using botanic spaces to further amplify societal interest in plant life, thus challenging plant blindness. Botanic gardens' document collections of living plants, researching and setting exemplar sustainable and ethical standards for the conservation and cultivation of rare and threatened plants, educating and bringing global plant conservation to the forefront of our natural world. Botanic gardens research innovation, scientific knowledge, heritage and expertise in sustaining a globally diverse range of plant species could be advantageous in the future design of urban spaces. It is through establishing active engagement between botanic spaces and urban spaces that plant blindness can be challenged, establishing a future vision for botanic gardens and botanic spaces, exploring the role botany could adopt within society.

Sustainability

Brownfield regeneration using a rewilding approach could provide an opportunity to create new gre... more Brownfield regeneration using a rewilding approach could provide an opportunity to create new green spaces in our cities. However, studies on public perceptions of rewilding projects are limited. Thus, the purpose of this study was to better understand the public’s perspective of brownfield regeneration and the perceived advantages that these regenerations may give if regenerated as urban green areas as part of rewilding projects. An online survey containing 21 dichotomous and multiple-choice items was created to learn about people’s preferences for brownfield regeneration, the advantages of urban rewilding, and the value of biodiversity in urban contexts. Results show that most people are aware of the benefits of urban regeneration and receptive to the idea of rewilding for urban resilience. Our findings raise awareness of the possibility of regenerating abandoned lots to create accessible green spaces for our communities.

City, Territory and Architecture

Book detailsWillemijn Wilms FloetURBAN OASES Dutch Hofjes as Hidden Architectural Gems.nai010 pub... more Book detailsWillemijn Wilms FloetURBAN OASES Dutch Hofjes as Hidden Architectural Gems.nai010 publishers, 2021.ISBN 978-94-6208-660-9.€ 39.95, paperback (Also available in Dutch and as e-book in English and Dutch).pp. 208, with illustrations (220 full color).

Sustainability

Several studies have indicated that children who grow up in green environments enjoy beneficial i... more Several studies have indicated that children who grow up in green environments enjoy beneficial impacts on their development. However, to date, very little attention has been paid to the types and characteristics of dedicated public open green space for children. In addition, studies on biophilic design that could help landscape architects to design open spaces for children are limited. In order to fill this gap, this perspective examines the scientific literature on the relationship between open spaces and children. The authors specifically discuss and analyze the following points: (1) pathways to and effects on children’s health and well-being; (2) types and characteristics of open spaces for child-dedicated facilities (e.g., schools, hospitals, fitness camps, playgrounds, etc.), as well as for child-friendly urban open spaces. Finally, the authors provide inspiring examples and case studies of biophilic design for children’s health and well-being. Conclusions from this perspectiv...

Wetlands

This paper aimed to investigate the driving factors for the creation of urban wetlands and their ... more This paper aimed to investigate the driving factors for the creation of urban wetlands and their functions and uses. A mixed methods approach was used, comprising an online survey for the general public and structured interviews with four urban wetland 'experts'. Quantitative data was obtained from the survey, and cross tabulation was used to analyse relationships between variables. Thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data from the interviews. It was found that one of the urban wetlands was created for flood control and to create an amenity space, whilst the driving factors for the other three urban wetlands were associated with biodiversity and habitat creation, which was also perceived as the most important function of an urban wetland from the survey participants. Three themes emerged from the thematic analysis: 'wildlife conservation interest'; 'landscape character development'; and 'urban wetland as an amenity space'. The survey found that participants perceived climate resiliency as an important function of wetlands, despite this not being a driving factor for the four wetlands in the interviews. Survey participants would be willing to invest time in visiting a non-local wetland landscape to encounter nature and contribute to their quality of life and wellbeing. The results of this research may be useful to inform the planning, design and management of urban wetlands as they evolve towards being a multi-use spaces. More education and awareness are needed about the benefits of these landscapes to wildlife, the environment and local communities.

Following the Brundtland Report in the early 1990s, the relationship between biodiversity and hum... more Following the Brundtland Report in the early 1990s, the relationship between biodiversity and human wellbeing became a topic of public debate and scientific research [1]. Nowadays, biodiverse cities can provide ecosystem services as well as mental health and wellbeing. Biodiverse cities have a critical role in delivering services and infrastructure, addressing inequity, and regulating environments that influence human health [2]. Several urban health issues may be handled with adequate planning and resources, resulting in mutual advantages for human and environmental health [2]. However, the health effects of biodiversity loss are becoming more well recognised. Ecosystem functioning is affected by biodiversity changes, and substantial ecosystem disturbances can result in life-sustaining ecosystem goods and services [3]. As a result, initiatives for increasing and conserving biodiversity in cities are required. This research examines case studies of urban green infrastructure, best p...

Consilience: journal of sustainable development, 2017

Hypothetical research into how the introduction and utilization of Environmental Management Syste... more Hypothetical research into how the introduction and utilization of Environmental Management Systems (EMS) could be instituted into Nigeria’s higher education scheme, as a means to improve environmental awareness and sustainable development practices on university campuses, is explored. Qualitative methodologies are utilized based on reviewed literature, semi-structured interviews, personal experiences and structured questionnaires. Reported two-year findings illustrate that effective potential EMS for Nigeria’s higher education, demands policy-oriented government directives and commitments in terms of strict regulatory legislation and coordination of related management support. While EMS implementation blockage is due to a lack of government initiative and managerial commitment accompaniment throughout Nigeria’s overall education sector. This blockage includes inadequate salary structures, lack of funding, insufficient academic curriculum and disconnect between universities and soci...

Commons Attribution (CC BY) license, which allows users to download, copy and build upon publishe... more Commons Attribution (CC BY) license, which allows users to download, copy and build upon published articles, as long as the author and publisher are properly credited, which ensures maximum dissemination and a wider impact of our publications. The book as a whole is distributed by MDPI under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND.

Land

Despite the well-known benefits of healing gardens for children in healthcare facilities, policie... more Despite the well-known benefits of healing gardens for children in healthcare facilities, policies and guidelines for their implementation are lacking, leading to their undervaluation by policymakers. This literature review investigates the advantages of healing gardens for children’s health and wellbeing, with a focus on public-funded healthcare facilities. The review explores the definition of a healing garden, theories, the value of play, the impact on children’s development, and the environmental benefits of healing gardens. Additionally, the review presents successful examples of healing gardens in practice, while acknowledging potential arguments against them and associated risks. During the literature review, research gaps were identified, and areas for future research were also examined. Finally, this review calls for evidence-based guidelines for policymakers and designers to incorporate healing gardens into healthcare facilities, providing a comprehensive argument for thei...

Land

The dynamic and heterogeneity of the urban heat island (UHI) is the result of the interactions be... more The dynamic and heterogeneity of the urban heat island (UHI) is the result of the interactions between biotic, physical, social, and built components. Urban ecology as a transdisciplinary science can provide a context to understand the complex social–biophysical issues such as the thermal environment in cities. This study aimed at developing a theoretical framework to elucidate the interactions between the social–biophysical patterns and processes mediating UHI. To do it, we conducted a theoretical review to delineate UHI complexity using the concept of dynamic heterogeneity of pattern, process, and function in UHI phenomenon. Furthermore, a hypothetical heterogeneity spiral (i.e., driver-outcome spiral) related to the UHI was conceived as a model template. The adopted theoretical framework can provide a holistic vision of the UHI, contributing to a better understanding of UHI’s spatial variations in long-term studies. Through the developed framework, we can devise appropriate metho...

Urban Planning

In recent years, the pressing environmental, social, and economic problems affecting cities have ... more In recent years, the pressing environmental, social, and economic problems affecting cities have resulted in the integration of the disciplines of landscape architecture and urban forestry via a transdisciplinary approach to urban planning and design. Now, new urban forestry approaches and concepts have emerged for more sustainable city planning. The discipline is using different methods and approaches to address many pressing issues such as human well-being and also food security. But, research on these topics is still limited and not available for many cities in the world. To fill this gap, we present this thematic issue “From Smart Urban Forests to Edible Cities: New Approaches in Urban Planning and Design.” The findings from this thematic issue offer new insight to policymakers and practitioners, as well as contribute to the emerging literature on edible and forest cities. Furthermore, the findings spanning different cities from different geographies can be used towards achievin...

Sustainability

Green spaces unquestionably improve both physical and mental health, but there is little informat... more Green spaces unquestionably improve both physical and mental health, but there is little information on how they affect quality of life. This study investigates whether the public perception of how local green spaces and their impact on quality of life have altered as a result of restrictions imposed by the U.K.’s SARS-CoV-2 pandemic containment strategy. Qualitative data were collected using an online questionnaire distributed via social media platforms and postal flyers. The results clearly demonstrate that 90% of participants believe that green spaces improved their quality of life during the pandemic, with over 85% thinking that green spaces will continue to have a positive impact on their quality of life once the pandemic is over. Whether this is a permanent change in public thinking or a short-term adaptation to the stresses of the pandemic can be assessed in future research studies. More detailed research is required to understand more clearly the aspects and types of green s...

Land, 2021

The term ecosystem services was coined to describe the societal benefit that natural ecosystems p... more The term ecosystem services was coined to describe the societal benefit that natural ecosystems provide, as well as to raise awareness about biodiversity and ecosystem conservation [...]

Energies, 2021

This essay considers the rural-to-urban transition and correlates it with urban energy demands. T... more This essay considers the rural-to-urban transition and correlates it with urban energy demands. Three distinct themes are inspected and interrelated to develop awareness for an urbanizing world: internal urban design and innovation, technical transition, and geopolitical change. Data were collected on the use of energy in cities and, by extension, nation states over the last 30 years. The urban population boom continues to pressure the energy dimension with heavily weighted impacts on less developed regions. Sustainable urban energy will need to reduce resource inputs and environmental impacts and decouple economic growth from energy consumption. Fossil fuels continue to be the preferred method of energy for cities; however, an increased understanding is emerging that sustainable energy forms can be implemented as alternatives. Key to this transition will be the will to invest in renewables (i.e., solar, wind, hydro, tidal, geothermal, and biomass), efficient infrastructure, and sma...

International-renowned forecasting of urban development in coastal environments indicates an incr... more International-renowned forecasting of urban development in coastal environments indicates an increased exposure to the risks of climatic events by way of natural hazards. This indication indirectly exacerbates the vulnerability of relating coastal communities. Using this viewpoint, a decade long study between 2000-2010 conceptualises a considerable volume of research in the area of vulnerability to urban environmental change due to disasters in relation to climatic events. In particular, several studies have attempted to present a discourse on the vulnerability of social ecological systems to hazards or risk occurrence within urban coastal environments in order to improve understanding and support for the assessment of impacts and risks related to such change and, by definition, its associating adaptive measures. This overview takes into account disparate opinions, approaches and methodologies applied by different scientific viewpoints and research studies, and highlights salient an...

Land, 2021

More communities around the world are recognizing the benefits of green infrastructure (GI) and a... more More communities around the world are recognizing the benefits of green infrastructure (GI) and are planting millions of trees to improve air quality and overall well-being in cities. However, there is a need for accurate tools that can measure and value these benefits whilst also informing the community and city managers. In recent years, several online tools have been developed to assess ecosystem services. However, the reliability of such tools depends on the incorporation of local or regional data and site-specific inputs. In this communication, we have reviewed two of the freely available tools (i.e., i-Tree Canopy and the United Kingdom Office for National Statistics) using Bristol City Centre as an example. We have also discussed strengths and weaknesses for their use and, as tree planting strategy tools, explored further developments of such tools in a European context. Results show that both tools can easily calculate ecosystem services such as air pollutant removal and mon...