Advanced Studies in Efficient Environmental Design and City Planning

Description

This book explains how learning from past mistakes in urban design can help to enhance sustainable cities and how the principles of Green Urbanism can yield more resilient urban settlements. Environmental design is a fundamental principle in shaping cities. However, environmental challenges like increased resource consumption, water degradation and waste-related issues are among the greatest problems now facing humanity – which is why these issues need to be considered with regard to “smart cities,” either for the development of new urban centers or for the transformation of existing cities. The book not only discusses the importance of integrating sustainability principles in the urban design process, but also demonstrates their application to the development of sustainable cities. As such, the book offers essential information and a source of inspiration for all those who want to build more sustainable cities. Series Editor’s Foreword Scientific Committee Introduction Contents Energy and Smart Systems 1 Multivariable Coupling Influence on Energy-Efficient Skylight Design Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Methodology 2.1 Response Surface Methodology Working Steps 2.2 RSM for Energy-Saving Building Design 2.3 Framework of This Study 3 Simulation Settings 3.1 Base Model Settings 3.2 Factor Parameterization 3.2.1 Geometry Factors 3.2.2 Material Settings of Skylights 3.2.3 Exterior Blind Settings 3.3 Experiment Summary 4 Results 4.1 Experiment Outputs of Ec, Eh, El, and Et 4.2 Mathematical Model Generation for Et 4.3 Trend Between Total Energy Demand and Multifactors 4.4 Optimization for Energy-Saving Design 5 Discussion 6 Conclusion Acknowledgements References 2 Performance of L-shaped Mini Louvers in Tropical Cities in Cooling Energy Reduction: Case Study of Mumbai, Mexico City, and Lagos Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Previous Researches 3 Research Methods 4 Simulations 5 Results 6 Discussion 7 Conclusions and Further Researches Acknowledgements References 3 User Perception of Energy Efficiency in School of Architecture and Built Environment (SABE) Building, Kigali, RWANDA Abstract 1 Introduction 1.1 Sustainability in Building Designs and Users 2 Research Method 3 Findings and Discussion 3.1 Passive Design Considerations 3.2 User Perception on Thermal Considerations 3.3 User Perception on Lighting Considerations 4 Conclusion References 4 Research on Small Sewage Treatment Technology Abstract 1 Overview 2 Rural Sewage Treatment Technology in Jilin Province 2.1 Traditional A2O Process 2.2 Traditional and Improved SBR Process 2.2.1 Traditional SBR Process 2.2.2 CAST Process 2.2.3 MSBR Process 2.3 MBR Process 2.4 VFL Process 2.4.1 Principle and Layout of VFL Process 2.4.2 VFL Process Characteristics 2.4.3 Practical Cases in Jilin Province 3 Conclusion References 5 Smart Energy Infrastructure and Technology: Assessing Community Preparedness for Residential Solar Uptake Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Project Background 3 India’s Energy Context: Exploring Policy, Regulation, and Guidelines and Their Influence on India’s Solar Energy Market 4 Indian Building Codes 5 To Address the Challenge… 6 Methodology 7 Analysis 8 Experience Without Solar Panels 9 Experience with Solar Panels 10 Built Environment Implications on Uptake of Solar Panels 11 Conclusion References 6 A Comparative Study of Spanish Mid-Sized Smart Cities from the Citizen’s Perspective Abstract 1 Introduction 2 The Concept of Smart City 3 Case Study 4 Methodological Framework 4.1 Definition of the Indicators 4.2 Evaluation Scales 4.3 Obtaining the Relevance Indexes 4.4 Evaluating the Cities and Obtaining the Rankings 5 Results 5.1 Relevance Indexes (RIs) 5.2 Evaluating the Cities 5.3 City Rankings 6 Conclusions Annex 1. Evaluation Scales Established for the Governance Indicators Annex 2. Evaluation Scales Established for the Mobility Indicators Annex 3. Evaluation Scales Established for the Environment Indicators Annex 4. Evaluation Scales Established for the Economy Indicators Annex 5. Evaluation Scales Established for the People Indicators Annex 6. Evaluation Scales Established for the Living Indicators References 7 Optimization of Micro-house Building Façade in Supporting the Net Zero Energy Buildings (Nze-Bs) Program for Low-Cost Economics Communities in Bandung City, Indonesia Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Literature Review 2.1 The Concept of “Efficiency-House Plus” as a Concept of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy 2.2 Between the Concept of Eco-architecture and NZE-Buildings 2.3 Building Facade 2.3.1 Daylight Level (DiL) 2.3.2 Building and Orientation 3 Research Methods 3.1 Method 3.2 Research Site 3.2.1 Desain Micro-house 4 Results and Discussion 4.1 Facades and Buildings 4.2 Material and Paint Selection 4.3 IES-VE V.5.3.1, CFD, and Ecotect Thermal Comfort Tool 4.4 Energy Consumption in Processed Building Facades 5 Conclusions Acknowledgements References 8 Commercial Development and GIS in Neighborhood Context: Case of Tirana, Albania Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Literature Review and Background 2.1 Importance of Location Selection 2.2 Analysis Through GIS 2.3 Characteristics of the Neighborhood 2.4 Research Problematics 2.5 Objectives of the Research 2.6 Research Hypothesis and Development Scenario 3 Methodology 3.1 Software Needs 3.2 Collection and Data Editing 4 Analysis 5 Results 5.1 Findings and Discussions 6 Conclusions and Recommendations References 9 The Effect of Shading Devices with Integrated Photovoltaics on Energy Efficiency of Buildings Abstract 1 Introduction 1.1 Design Considerations 1.2 Performance Evaluation 2 Methodology 2.1 Location and Climate 2.2 Case Study 2.3 Simulations 3 Results 3.1 Energy Consumption 3.2 PV Production 3.3 Economics of PV Production 3.4 Shading Device Efficiency 3.4.1 PV Production/Electricity Consumption 4 Conclusions References 10 The Traditional Architecture of the Heritage Villages in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Thermal Performance Efficiency Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Research Problem and Objective of Research 3 Research Methodology 4 Temporal and Spatial Determinants 5 Practical Steps in the Search 6 Analytical Study of Heritage Villages 6.1 Majmaah Heritage Village 6.2 Hirma Heritage Village 7 Results 7.1 Results of Thermal Performance Analysis for Both Villages 7.2 The Results of the Comparison Between the Thermal Performance of the Two Villages 8 Recommendations References Innovative Strategies and Measures for Achieving Sustainability 11 Megaprojects, Ecology and the Environment: Dimensions of Sustainability in Global Cities Abstract 1 Introduction 2 A Focus on Sustainability 3 Environmental Sustainability in Tokyo, London, Paris, and New York City 3.1 Tokyo Bay 3.1.1 Urban Heat Island Effect 3.1.2 Liquefaction of Reclaimed Land 3.2 London: 2012 Olympics 3.2.1 Cooperation with the Rio Tinto Mine 3.2.2 Loss of Biodiversity 3.2.3 Mismanagement of Nuclear Waste 3.2.4 Loss of Allotment and Greenspace 3.3 Paris: La Défense 3.3.1 Disturbance of Skyline 3.3.2 Criticisms Against the Grande Arche 3.3.3 Unequal Distribution of Natural Light 3.4 New York City: New World Trade Center 3.4.1 Green Concrete 3.4.2 Doubts on LEED Certification 3.4.3 Hotter Environment 4 Governance for Sustainable Megaprojects 5 Sustainable Infrastructure Delivery 6 Sustainable Development Zones 7 Sustainable Planning and Design 8 Sustainable Management 9 Institutional Sustainability 10 Socio-economic Sustainability 11 Conclusion References 12 Elements Related to Sustainability of Urban Form: Study of an Indian City, Thane (Maharashtra, India) Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Objectives 3 Methodology 4 Literature Review 4.1 Urban Form Sustainability—Global Scenario 4.2 Urban Form Sustainability—Indian Scenario 4.3 Different Types of Urban Forms 5 Factors That Make Indian Cities Unsustainable 6 Study Area 7 Measuring Urban Form of Thane 8 Conclusions References 13 The Potential of Benghazi Lakes and Wetlands in Achieving Sustainable Master Plan Abstract 1 Introduction 1.1 Methodology and Aims 1.2 Wetlands and Lakes of Benghazi 1.2.1 City of Lakes and Wetlands Between Past and Present 1.2.2 Benghazi Main Wetlands and Lakes Types 1.2.3 Case Studies of Benghazi Lakes and Wetlands Sabkha Sabri West Entrance Lake (Lake Juliana) Northern Lakes Lagoon 23rd July Ain Zayana Lagoon 1.2.4 Summary of Results 1.3 Wetlands’ Significance to Benghazi City 1.4 The Importance of Wetlands and Coastal Lakes 1.5 Wetlands and Lakes Problems and Possible Fragmentations 1.6 Previous Calls to Highlight of the Wetlands and Lakes Situation in Benghazi 1.7 Why Wetlands and Lakes Are Essential for Sustainable Development? 1.8 Sustainable Strategies for Benghazi Wetlands and Lakes Rehabilitation Plan 1.9 Conclusions References 14 Innovative Sustainable Strategies to Mobility and Urban Transport Problems in Benghazi Abstract 1 Introduction 2 The Urban Sustainable Transport Strategies 2.1 Sustainable Transport Objectives 2.2 The Benefits of Sustainable Transport Strategies 2.3 Principles of Successful Sustainable Solutions 3 Case Study Area, Benghazi City 3.1 Why Sustainable Transport Strategies Are Needed in Benghazi Now? 3.2 Challenges in the Transport Sector in Benghazi 4 Benghazi Proposal Plans and Opportunities for the Future 4.1 Why Road-User Charging Scheme is Needed in Benghazi? 4.2 Why Public Transport System is Important in Benghazi? 4.3 Why Walkable Streets in Benghazi Are Important and How Can We Achieve Them? 4.4 Modal Share and Shuttle Service 4.5 Transit-Oriented Development Approach—TOD 5 Conclusion References 16 Valuing Public Perceptions of Biophilia Impact on Human Well-Being: 2 Sustainable Building Case Studies from Greece and India Abstract 1 Introduction 1.1 Green Buildings 1.2 Green Building Standards 1.3 Biophilia—Valuing Nature 1.4 Placebo Effect—Valuing Perception 2 Research Aims 3 Method 3.1 Case Study: The European Sustainability Academy (ESA) Crete 3.1.1 Design 3.1.2 Materials 3.1.3 Use 3.2 Case Study: Sharanam Centre for Rural Development, Pondicherry India 3.2.1 Bioclimatic Design in Action 3.2.2 Biophilic Design in Action 3.2.3 Building Use 4 Results 4.1 Demographics 4.2 Survey 4.3 Analysis 4.4 Main Themes Emerging from the Study 4.4.1 State of Well-Being 4.4.2 Connection to Nature 4.4.3 Personal Security 4.4.4 Spirituality 5 Discussion 5.1 Biophilia 5.2 Placebo 6 Conclusion Disclosure Statement Appendix 2: NVIVO Word Cloud from Analysis of Respondents’ Text References 17 Evaluation of Development Strategies and Community Needs in Developing Countries: A Comparative Case Study of Informal Settlements in Asia and Africa Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Informal Settlements 3 Sustainable Development 4 Research Method 4.1 Characteristics 4.2 Strategies and Policies 4.2.1 The Asian Context 5 Discussion 5.1 General Characteristics 5.2 Sustainable Measures in Development Strategies 6 Conclusion References 18 New, Smart, and Sustainable Cities in Algeria: Realities and Challenges. Case of the City of Sidi Abdellah in Algiers Region Abstract 1 Introduction 2 The Problem of Research 3 Research Objectives 4 Research Importance 5 Methodology 6 Previous Studies 7 Description of the Study Area 7.1 Presentation of the City of Sidi Abdellah 7.2 The Physical Environment (Climate and Precipitation) 7.3 Seismicity 7.4 The Flora 8 The Definition of the Development Plan Related to the Vocation of the New Town 9 The General Program of the City 9.1 The Residential Functions 9.2 Functions of the New City 10 The Organization and the Urban Structure 10.1 Accessibilities 10.2 Drinking Water Supply 10.3 The Sanitation 10.4 The Power Supply 10.5 The Phasing Plan of the New City (Table 4) 11 Analysis of the Results of the Study Area Description 11.1 The Extent to Which the City of Sidi Abdellah Has Reduced the Pressure and Congestion of the Capital 11.2 Assess the Extent to Which the Program Is Consistent with the Concept and Principles of Sustainability 11.3 Application of the United Nations Principles Which Ensure Urban Sustainability in the Studied Sample (Sidi Abdellah, Algeria) 11.4 The Extent to Which Sidi Abdellah Has Responded to the Concept of Sustainable Development and Its Relation to the Term Smart City 12 Conclusion References 19 The Sustainable Strategy to Create Decentralized Economic Hubs for Regional Development Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Decentralization Strategy for the Economic Hub 2.1 Concept of Decentralized Economic Regional Hubs 3 A Hub’s Economic Characteristics 3.1 A Hub as a Centralization of Economic Activities 3.2 A Hub Is Preferable at the Peripheries 3.3 A Hub Should Be Located Close to Natural Resources 3.4 Proposed Size of an Economic Hub 3.5 Sustainable Development for Hubs 4 Decentralized Hubs: Case Studies 4.1 California, US: Decentralized Technology Hubs 4.2 Guangdong, China: Logistic Hubs 4.2.1 Guangzhou Manufacturing Hub 4.2.2 Shenzhen: The Best Hub in China for IoT Product Manufacturing 4.3 Germany: A Decentralized Country in Europe 4.3.1 Hamburg Is a Port Hub 5 Proposal of Decentralization Strategies to Create Economic Hubs in Egypt 5.1 Economic Activities in the Suez Canal Zone 6 Conclusion References 20 Consultative Hubs for Democracy Within Neighborhoods in Muscat. Alternatives for Urban and Social Development Strategies Abstract 1 Introduction 1.1 Urban Development Within Neighborhoods in Muscat 1.2 Democracy, Participation, and Democratic Participatory Process 1.3 Research Methodology 2 Muscat Governing Structure 3 Case Study—Khoud 6 (Hayi Al Maarifa) 3.1 Khoud 6 Neighborhood as “Hayi Al Maarifa” 3.2 Hayi Al Maarifa Neighborhood Committees 3.3 Hayi Al Maarifa Neighborhood: Men Committees 3.4 Hayi Al Maarifa Neighborhood: Women Committees 4 Discussion 4.1 Consultative Hubs for Democracy Within Neighborhoods in Muscat 5 Recommendations 6 Conclusion References 21 Hortas Comunitárias in the Favelas of Rio de Janeiro: How New Ideas Are Adopted and Spread Across Communities Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Research Design 3 Results 4 Limitations 5 Conclusion References 22 An Overview of 100 Resilient Cities Network—The Case of Amman Abstract 1 Introduction 2 The Main Objectives of This Study 3 The Significance of This Study 4 Method 5 What Is Urban Resilience? 6 100 Resilient Cities Network (100RC) 7 Why Boosting Urban Resilience Is Essential for Amman? 8 Amman’s Journey in Developing Its First Urban Resilience Strategy 8.1 Phase I—Preliminary Resilience Assessment (PRA) 8.2 Phase II—Amman Resilience Strategy 8.3 Phase III—Implementation 9 Amman’s Significant Weaknesses 10 Amman Resilience Office and the Development of the City Plan 11 Stakeholder Engagement 12 Analysing Amman Resilience Strategy—Word Frequency Method 13 Conclusions Acknowledgements References 23 Preservation of a Porous City; Strategies for Tirana Urban Fabric Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Porosity Meaning and Importance of Study 3 Background 4 Method and Study Area 4.1 Collection and Analysis 4.2 Prepare Working Materials 4.3 Defining Areas of Interest—Case Studies 4.4 Simplified Application of the Planed Green Space 4.5 Comparison of the Results with Other Standards 5 Results 6 Discussions 7 Conclusions Acknowledgements References Urban Landscapes and Green Infrastructure 24 Green Spaces and Environmental Justice: Measuring the Accessibility and Fair Distribution of Public Green Spaces in the Town of Al-Mughayyer Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Literature Review 2.1 Green Spaces 2.2 Environmental Justice 2.3 Environmental Justice Applications in the Literature 2.4 Green Spaces in Jordan 3 Study Area 4 Methodological Design Flow 4.1 Methodological Approach 4.1.1 Interviews 4.1.2 Participatory Mapping 4.1.3 GIS-Based Spatial Analysis 4.2 Data Collection 5 Results 5.1 Public Green Spaces Service Areas (Network Analysis) 5.1.1 Network Analysis Summary 5.2 Interviews 5.2.1 Interviews Summary 5.3 Future Possible Green Space Locations Results (Municipality New Park Location Proposal) 5.4 Suitability Analysis Results 5.4.1 Suitable Locations Selection Criteria 5.4.2 Suitability Analysis Results Summary 6 Discussion 6.1 Main Reasons Active Green Spaces Are not Being Used 6.2 Reasons for Why People Prefer Natural Green Spaces 6.3 Do the New Spots Achieve Environmental Justice? 6.4 Policy Implications 6.5 Discussion of Methods 7 Conclusion and Recommendations Appendix 1 (Interview Questions) References 25 Urban Greenery as a Resource for Urban Environment Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Urban Metabolism and Material Flow Analysis 3 Case Study: Neighborhood “Le Vallette,” Turin 4 Development of Analysis 5 Results and Perspectives 6 Conclusion Acknowledgements References 26 The Necessary Integration of Green Infrastructures in the Public Transport Infrastructure Design Abstract 1 Introduction and Methodology 2 Literature on Green Infrastructures and Mobility 3 Methodology 4 The Case Study: Palermo, Italy 4.1 The Outer Belt 4.2 Historic Green in the City: Gardens and Monumental Trees 4.3 The Historical Water Network 4.4 The Water Network Today 4.5 The Structural Map 4.6 Green Policies in Palermo: Success and Failures 5 Proposals 6 Conclusions References 27 Understanding the Social Appropriation of Public Green Spaces in a Disadvantaged Neighbourhood. A Conceptual Model Related to Urban Sustainability Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Urban Sustainability 2.1 Social Appropriation of Space 2.2 Factors Favouring the Appropriation of Public Green Space 3 Methodology 3.1 Area and Unit of Study 3.2 Gathering Information 3.3 Statistical Analysis 4 Results 4.1 Sociodemographic Aspects 4.2 The Model for the Evaluation of the Appropriation of Public Green Spaces 5 Conclusions Acknowledgements References 28 Multifunctional Assessment of Green Infrastructure for Sustainable City Planning Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Green Infrastructure and Ecosystem Services 2.1 Urban Nature Versus Green Infrastructure 2.2 Multi-functionality 3 Methodology 3.1 Survey 3.2 Methods for the Assessment of Recreation, Habitat Provision and Climate Regulation 4 Case Study Děčín (Czech Republic) 5 Results 5.1 Field Work 5.2 Monofunctional Assessment 5.3 Multifunctional Assessment 5.4 Impact Evaluation of Planning and Design Strategies 6 Discussion 7 Conclusions Acknowledgements References 29 Biophilic Institutions and Governance: Biophilic Urbanism Initiatives (BUIs) Fostering Green Urban Features in Emerging and Developing Cities Abstract 1 Introduction 1.1 Green Urbanism as a Framework of Biophilic Urbanism 1.2 Biophilia and Biophilic Urbanism 1.3 The Biophilic City 2 Methodology 2.1 Compilation of BUIs 2.2 Classification of BUI Gathered 2.3 Institutions and Biophilic Governance Initiatives 3 Results and Discussion 3.1 General Overview 3.2 Biophilic Urbanism Projects Under the Biophilic Governance Approach 3.3 Latin America Study Cases 4 Conclusions Acknowledgements Appendix References 30 Neighborhood Urban Green Spaces for Senior Citizens and Children, Case Study: Delhi Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Need of the Study 3 Literature Study 3.1 Green Spaces 3.1.1 Concept of Green Spaces 3.1.2 Types of Green Spaces 3.1.3 Functions of Green Spaces (Vijai Shanker Singh, 2010) 3.1.4 Usability of Urban Green Spaces 3.1.5 Benefits of Urban Green Spaces (Center for Urban Green Spaces, 2012; The Benefits of Green Space, 2015) 3.1.6 Supporting Elements of a Park (Christiansen, n.d.; Riverside General Plan 2025; Amended, 2012) 3.2 Provision for Green Spaces in MPD 3.3 Children 3.4 Senior Citizen 3.5 Neighborhood 4 Methodology and Data Collection 4.1 Criteria for Selection of Case Study Areas 4.2 Methods Used to Collect Data 4.3 The Sample Size 4.3.1 Dwarka Sector-6, Neighborhood Park 4.3.2 Dwarka Sector-8, Neighborhood Park 5 Data Analysis 5.1 Observation Survey 5.1.1 Comparison of Ease of Accessibility of the Parks 5.1.2 Comparison of Presence of Facilities in the Parks 5.1.3 Comparison of Maintenance of Facilities in the Parks 5.1.4 Total Weightage of All the Above Three Parameters 5.1.5 Land use Around Both the Parks 5.2 Park User Survey—A Comparative Analysis 5.2.1 Total Number of People Using Park (All Age Group) 5.2.2 Age Group of People Using Park (All Age Group) 5.2.3 Time Spent at the Park (Minutes) (Only Senior Citizen and Children) 5.2.4 Frequency of Using the Park (Only Senior Citizen and Children) 5.3 Residents Survey 5.3.1 General Characteristics and Population of the Study Areas 5.3.2 Activities Performed at the Park (All Age Group) 5.4 A Summary of Analysis of Study Areas 5.4.1 General Characteristics, Usage, and Usability of Both the Study Areas 5.4.2 Comparison of Aspects and Its Issues in Neighborhood Parks 6 Results and Finding 6.1 Site-Specific Issues and Problems 7 Discussion 8 Conclusions 9 Before and Now References 31 The Use of Landscape as a Method of Integrating Informal Settlements in Tirana Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Background and Case Study 2.1 History and Facts 2.2 Definition of Informal Settlements 2.3 Today Legal Situation 3 Importance of Study 4 Introducing the Theoretical Approach—Understanding Landscape Urbanism 5 Method of Study 5.1 Understanding the Landscape Potential in the Planning Process 5.2 Identification of Potential and Problems in the Areas 5.3 Undertanding Strategies in the GLP TR30, Foreseen for the Future-City Development 6 Results 6.1 Findings on Informal Settlements Areas 6.2 Findings on the Main Strategies Foreseen 7 Discussions 7.1 Today Evaluation 7.2 Environmental Aspect 7.3 Social Aspect 7.4 Demography 7.5 Risks or Benefits 7.6 Economic Aspect 8 Conclusions Acknowledgements References The Climate and the Environment 32 Supporting Climate Adaptation Measures in Small- to Medium-Sized Austrian Cities Using Climate Modelling Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Climate Model and Material 2.1 Urban Climate Model 2.2 Regional and Meteorological Conditions 2.3 Land Use and Land Cover 3 Results 3.1 Reference Simulations 3.2 Climate Adaptation Measures 3.3 ‘White City’ 3.4 ‘Green City’ 3.5 All Adaptation Measures in Combination 4 Conclusions Conflict of Interest References 33 Local Climate Action Planning: An Evaluation of Michigan Climate Action Plans Through Text-Based Analysis Abstract 1 Introduction 1.1 Aim of the Study and Its Objectives 1.2 The Literature Review 2 Local Climate Action Planning 3 Michigan Climate Action Planning 3.1 General Overview 3.2 Content Analysis of the Michigan Climate Action Plans (CAPs) 3.2.1 The Key Policy Terms of the Content Analysis 3.2.2 Text-Based Analysis of the Selected Five CAPs 3.2.3 Policy Design of CAPs 4 Conclusion References 34 Mobile Environmental Measurement Laboratory Using Electric Vehicles for Smart Cities Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Methods 2.1 Mobile Data Acquisition Hardware 2.2 Measurement of Environmental Variables and GPS 3 Results 3.1 Housing and Installation 4 Discussion 4.1 Social Knowledge Dissemination 4.2 Student Urban Mobility Service 5 Conclusions 5.1 Mobile Environmental Laboratory as Part of a Smart City Acknowledgements References 35 Biophilic Water Criteria: Exploring a Technique to Develop an Environmentally Sustainable Biophilic Design Framework Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Methodology 2.1 Development of Biophilia Water Criteria Framework 2.2 Biophilic Water Criteria Evaluation against traditional GBRTs Criteria 2.3 Selection of the GBRTs 3 Results of Phase 1: Biophilic Water Criteria Framework Development 3.1 Water in GBRTs: Identifying a Comprehensive List of Water Performance Criteria 3.2 Identifying the Sensory Design Strategies 3.3 Identifying Natural Processes 3.4 Proposed Biophilic Water Criteria (BWC) 4 Phase 2: Evaluation 4.1 Associating Biophilic Criteria with Performance Criteria Through Design Elements 4.2 Evaluation Against Green Building Rating Tools 5 Conclusions References 36 Design Indicators Based on Nature and Social Interactions to Enhance Wellness for Patients in Healthcare Facilities Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Literature Review 2.1 Designing for Patient Wellness: The Concept of Health Care Facilities Design and Development According to Patient Wellbeing 2.2 Natural Daylighting and Healing Process 2.2.1 Natural Lighting 2.2.2 Design Example Adopted to Optimize Access to Daylight and Views of Nature 2.3 Gardens in Healthcare Environment 2.4 Integrate Nature in Interior Design 2.5 Social Support and Positive Social Interaction 2.5.1 Social Contacts 2.5.2 Social Support 2.5.3 Social Interaction 2.5.4 Orientation 2.6 Examples of Hospitals Accommodating Nature and Social Interaction 3 Methodology 3.1 Data Collection 3.2 Methodology Used 4 Results and Discussion 4.1 Design Indicators Based on Nature and Social Interaction 5 Conclusion References 37 Effects of Climate Change on Vegetation in the Province of Macerata (Central Italy) Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Materials and Methods 3 Results and Discussion 4 Conclusions References Reviving Cities’ Urban Fabric 38 Urban Fabric Patterns on Urban Wetland Abstract 1 Introduction 1.1 Case Study 2 Methods 2.1 Wetland Perimeter 2.2 Urban Variables 2.3 OLS Modeling 3 Results 4 Conclusions Acknowledgements References 39 Shoreline Alteration Rate and Urbanization in the Burullus Region Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Research Methodology 3 Nile Delta Shoreline Challenges 4 Data Resources 5 Case Study Application: Lake Burullus 6 Lake Burullus Surrounding Districts 7 Baltim 8 Analysis of Coastlines Transformation 9 Planning Concept of Coastal Line 10 Proposed Shoreline Development Plan 11 Research Findings References 40 Investigating the Children’s Satisfaction in Cairo Toward Achieving Child-Friendly City Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Literature Review 2.1 The Approach of Child-Friendly City 3 Child-Friendly City in a Child-Friendly World 4 A City with Children in Mind 5 Children as a Part of the Community 6 Children in Cairo: The Case Study 6.1 Data Collection and Findings 7 Conclusion References 41 CSR and Postal Service Sustainable Development and Its Impact on Urban Environment at the Example of Courier Service Operator Solutions in Europe Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Impact of Transport Activity on Urban Environment 3 Corporate Social Responsibility—Concept Definition and Characteristics 4 Methods of CSR Implementation into Business Activities of Selected Courier Service Operators in Europe 5 Conclusion Acknowledgements Reference 42 Public Spaces and Urban Transition in Tirana City Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Literature Review 3 Tirana Public Space 3.1 Research Problematics 3.2 Objectives of the Research 3.3 Research Hypothesis and Development Scenario 4 The Importance of Today 4.1 Context Analyse 5 Methodology—Classification and Analysing the Transformation 5.1 Instrument for Data Collection 5.2 Data Collection 5.3 Data Analyses 6 Results 7 Discussion 8 Conclusion Acknowledgements References 43 Tirana in the Crossroads: Urban Sprawl or Natural Resources Abstract 1 Urban Development of Tirana 1.1 Tirana—City Development After 90s 1.2 General Local Plan of Tirana 2030, Led by Stefano Boeri 1.3 The New Orbital Forest 2 Conclusions References Dialogues of Sustainable Urbanization: Housing, Transport, and Well-Being 44 Comparison of Ground-Borne Vibration Induced by Railway Within Peak and Non-peak Hours Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Methodology 2.1 Result and Discussion 2.1.1 Relationship Between Speed of Train and Peak Particle Velocity (PPV) 2.1.2 Relationship Between Distance from Mini SEIS to Track and Peak Particle Velocity (PPV) 2.1.3 Regression Model to Predict Ground-Borne Vibration Induced by Railway 2.1.4 Comparison of PPV Within Peak and Non-peak Hours of Train Operation 3 Conclusion Acknowledgements References 45 Empirical Model of Ground-Borne Vibration Imposed by Road Traffic on Soft Ground Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Research Methodology 2.1 Test Sites 2.2 Shear Wave Velocity 2.3 Ground Vibration Measurement 2.4 Vehicle Speed and Vehicle Class Measurement 2.5 Pavement Measurement 3 Model Parameters 4 Model Development 4.1 Regression Model Assumptions Justification 4.2 Regression Model Validations 4.3 Sensitivity Analysis 5 Summary and conclusions Acknowledgement References 46 Construction of Housing for Low-Cost in the Town of Al-Mansoura Northern Badia of Jordan Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Literature Background 3 Cultural Framework and Sociocultural Structure of Bedouins 4 Spatial Structure of Bedouins 5 Research Methods and Field Interviews Outcomes 6 Research Setting—Al-Mansoura Town 7 Projections and Outcomes 8 Planning and Design Strategies 9 Conclusion Acknowledgements References 47 The Utilization of Human-Oriented Transportation Systems as Regeneration Tool for ‘Healthy Neighbourhood’ Abstract 1 Introduction 2 Methodology 3 Healthy Neighbourhood Towards Human-Oriented Design 4 System Analysis (Neighbourhood Analysis) Within OT and HOTS Frameworks 5 The Transdisciplinary and Multi-dimensional Healthy Neighbourhood Concept 6 Results 7 Conclusion Acknowledgements References 48 The Impact of the Smart Modern Transportation on Urban Structure of the Cities Abstract 1 Sustainable Development (SD) 1.1 The Concept of Sustainable Cities and SD 1.2 Tools for Achieving Sustainable Development (SD) 2 Benefits of Smart Transportation Systems (STS) (ITS UKnited Kingdom, 2016) 2.1 Health, Safety, and Environment 2.2 Public Transport 2.3 Driver and Traffic Management Benefits 2.4 Economic Benefits 3 Types of Transportation 3.1 Transportation Types 3.2 Spaces and Equipment Needed for Transportation 4 Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) (Ezell, 2010) 5 Smart Transportation System Requirements (Grob, 2009) 6 The Arab Cities (Bashandy, 1987) 6.1 Kinds of Transportation in the Arab City 6.2 The Urban Structure of the Arab City 7 Analysis of Sustainable Transportation for Some Cities 7.1 City of Vancouver—Canada (Vancouver, 2040–2015) 7.1.1 Greenest City Directions (Vancouver, 2040–2015) 7.1.2 Greenest City Transit 7.2 Masdar City Model—UAE 8 Comparative Analysis of Sustainable Transportation for Some Cities 9 Conclusion References 49 A Framework for Branding Rural Towns: A Case Study of Al-Mughayyer, Irbid, Jordan Abstract 1 Introduction 1.1 Study Scope 2 Literature Review 2.1 Historical Overview 2.2 General Concepts Related to Place Branding 2.3 City Branding 2.4 City Branding and Green Spaces 2.5 Branding Rural Areas 3 Problem Statement 4 Research Questions 5 Methodology 6 Results and Findings 6.1 The First Stage: Clarifying a Framework 6.2 The Second Stage: Evaluation 6.2.1 First Phase: Residents and Authors Evaluation of Historical and Natural Aspects 6.2.2 The Second Phase: Open-Ended Questions Regarding the Cultural Aspect 6.3 The Third Stage: Defining Al-Mughayyer Identity 6.4 The Fourth Stage: Clarifying a Specific Framework for Branding Al-Mughayyer 6.5 The Fifth Stage: Suitability Analysis 6.5.1 First Phase: Al-Mughayyer Features 6.5.2 Second Phase: High Rated Features 6.5.3 Third Phase: Town’s Infrastructure and Slope Map 6.5.4 Fourth Phase: Distances from Selected Features 7 Discussion 8 Limitations 9 Recommendations 10 Conclusion Acknowledgements References 50 Urban EcoMobility Hub. A Tool to Design Active Transportation Frameworks Abstract 1 Introduction 1.1 Energy Demand—Population Grew up from Low Rural to High Urban Consumption 1.2 Urban Activity—From Agriculture to Network Economies 1.3 Transportation Technology—From Train to Multimodal Systems 1.4 Dwellers Evolution—From Citizen to Territorian 1.5 Mobility Evolution—From Centralized to Polycentric 2 Framework Design Tool 3 EcoMobility Hub—Design tools for a Mobility Framework 3.1 Micro-polycentric Mobility Network 3.2 Active Multimodal Central Station 3.3 Active Transportation-Economy Network Stations 3.4 Fuel Economy Program 4 Conclusion Acknowledgements References