Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning

Our era confronts a pivotal juncture, demanding the radical reimagining of urban and regional planning. Amid global climate change, energy resource depletion, escalating greenhouse gas emissions, and the intricate demands of sustainable development within historic urban contexts, the imperative to redefine planning paradigms grows urgent. There is a mounting consensus on the necessity of adopting energy-efficient, ecologically responsible, and socially sustainable practices that harmonize environmental stewardship with cultural preservation—from smart city innovations to heritage conservation. Emerging technologies—green building techniques, artificial intelligence, and digital twins—are redefining sustainable architecture and planning. These tools enable unprecedented precision in designing low-carbon cities, optimizing transportation networks, and simulating climate resilience, while simultaneously revitalizing vernacular construction methods and safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. They bridge tradition with innovation, allowing for eco-friendly urban design, community-led regeneration, and adaptive governance frameworks that balance development with cultural continuity. These challenges necessitate interdisciplinary collaboration and visionary solutions. Addressing them offers a unique opportunity to propel urban and regional planning toward a regenerative future—one that transcends environmental imperatives to encompass social equity, cultural vibrancy, and the exploration of uncharted frontiers in sustainable design.