Special Issue "Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance"

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2022.

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Eduardo José Rocha Medeiros
E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), 1649-026 Lisboa, Portugal
Interests: territorial cohesion; territorial cooperation; territorial impact assessment; territorial development; sustainable development; EU cohesion policy; spatial planning
Prof. Dr. Jacek Zaucha
E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
University of Gdańsk faculty of Economics, 81-824 Sopot, Poland
Interests: Territorial Cohesion; maritime spatial planning; integration of the Baltic Sea region; Territorial Development; EU Cohesion Policy

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues, 

Sustainable approach is gaining momentum at our eyes. We can witness the negative consequences of unbalanced economic-biased development. We need a deeper reflection how to change is unsustainable path of development. Spatial planning should be a part of the remedy since spatial planning is dealing with long term processes of a “longue durée” character. This special issue will serve this purpose to start scientific debate on reconceptualization of the role of spatial planning and development in the context of sustainability. How spatial planning can contribute to prosperity, high quality of life and diminished disparities between countries while respecting ecosystem and social integrity? 

According to the ESPON COMPASS report, 'spatial planning and territorial governance are collections of formal and informal institutions some of which are shared'. Under this view, spatial planning can be understood 'as organized sets of rules like plans and permit procedures that help societies govern urban and rural development', whereas territorial governance entails 'shared values, norms or traditional ways of working such as inter-departmental meetings to share information'. Crucially, now more than ever, the design and implementation of spatial planning and territorial governance processes require an environmentally sustainable policy approach. This is especially true following from the launching of the United Nations (UN) 17 sustainable development goals (SDG), in 2015, which launched a ‘global policy age for sustainable development’. Against this backdrop, this special issue intends to explore potential points of intersection and complementarity between sustainable spatial planning and territorial governance processes. In more detail, it aims to uncover promising directions for complementing the 17 UN SDG and the need to foster spatial planning and territorial governance processes, as a means to achieving more efficient sustainable development policies. Spatial planning will be outlined broadly in this special issue. It will cover land, sea and perhaps even air, formal and informal processes, functional and administrative interactions and various geographical scales from local through regional, national macro-regional and continental ones up to the global one (i.e. planning of the High seas). In this context, this Special Issue welcomes the following kinds of contributions: 

(a) Evidence-based papers illustrating and discussing the implementation of spatial planning and territorial governance processes: (i) their role to foster sustainable territorial development processes, territorial cohesion, territorial cooperation (cross-border, transnational and interregional), and governance networks; and (iii) the role of public tools for sustainable spatial planning and territorial governance processes. 

(b) Theoretical papers that propose conceptual visions and appropriate methodologies and indicators to design, implement and assess Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance processes and related (local, regional, national and EU) policies.  

(c) Foresight papers showing future paths of spatial planning for unhanded sustainable development at various geographical scales. 

Papers selected for this special issue are subject to a rigorous peer review procedure with the aim of rapid and wide dissemination of research results, developments and applications. Please note that Sustainability is an open access journal providing fast review process but requiring compulsory fee of.... USD for the open access.

Prof. Dr. Eduardo José Rocha Medeiros
Prof. Dr. Jacek Zaucha
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All papers will be peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Sustainable Spatial Planning
  • Sustainable Territorial Governance
  • Sustainable Development
  • Maritime and Land Spatial Planning
  • Territorial Cooperation
  • Territorial Cohesion
  • Territorial Development

Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

Article
Multi-Use of the Sea as a Sustainable Development Instrument in Five EU Sea Basins
Sustainability 2021, 13(15), 8159; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13158159 - 21 Jul 2021
Viewed by 554
Abstract
This paper examines the concept of maritime multi-use as a territorial/SPATIAL governance instrument for the enhancement of sustainable development in five EU sea basins. Multi-use (MU) is expected to enhance the productivity of blue economy sectors, as well as deliver additional socio-economic benefits [...] Read more.
This paper examines the concept of maritime multi-use as a territorial/SPATIAL governance instrument for the enhancement of sustainable development in five EU sea basins. Multi-use (MU) is expected to enhance the productivity of blue economy sectors, as well as deliver additional socio-economic benefits related to the environmental and social dimensions of sustainable development. The paper provides a definition of maritime multi-use and identifies the multi-uses with the highest potential in EU sea basins. In each sea basin, multi-use plays a different role as concerns sustainable development. For the Eastern Baltic Sea, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea, the MU focus should remain on the environmental pillar of sustainable development. In the North Sea, North Atlantic and Western Baltic Sea, addressing social sustainability seems a key precondition for success of MU in enhancement of sustainable spatial development at sea. Moreover, it has been suggested to introduce MU key global strategies such as SDGs or Macroregional strategies and action plans and to supplement maritime spatial planning with sectoral incentives and educational efforts as key vehicles supporting MU. The paper concludes by identifying aspects which, in order to inform maritime spatial planning and maritime governance regarding a more conscious application of the aforementioned concept, require further investigation. Key tasks are related to: more profound evaluation of performance of policies supporting MUs, researching the impact of MU on societal goals and on the MU costs and benefits, including external ones, and finally identifying the impact of MU on the development of various sectors and regions on land. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)
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Article
Place-Sensitive Social Investment and Territorial Cohesion: Implications for Sustainability
Sustainability 2021, 13(13), 7085; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13137085 - 24 Jun 2021
Viewed by 328
Abstract
This theoretical paper presents a review of existing literature on the Social Investment (SI) approach to social policy and its underlying and under-explored territorial dimension. The SI approach has been debated and promoted mainly at national and supranational level, while the territorial dimension [...] Read more.
This theoretical paper presents a review of existing literature on the Social Investment (SI) approach to social policy and its underlying and under-explored territorial dimension. The SI approach has been debated and promoted mainly at national and supranational level, while the territorial dimension has been relatively underestimated in the policy as well as in the academic debate. A place-sensitive approach should be included within the analytical framework when addressing the territorial articulation of SI, as territorial-related variables may foster or hinder SI policies. Therefore, we provide a theoretical frame to articulate the territorial dimension of SI, and we discuss relevant points of contact between Social Investment and Territorial Cohesion. First, we provide a critical discussion about Social Investment approach, with the simultaneous aim of highlighting the gaps and the flaws, among which we focus on the territorial dimension of these policies. Second, we argue that this territorial dimension is related to the interaction between four main factors: (1) The reliance on the provision of capacitating services; (2) the process of institutional rescaling; (3) the persistence of spatial inequalities at subnational levels; and (4) the characteristics of the knowledge and learning economy. Third, we explore the relationship between place-sensitive Social Investment and Territorial Cohesion, discussing potential implications for sustainable development. The work is a theoretical reflection based on the HORIZON2020 project COHSMO “Inequality, Urbanization and Territorial Cohesion: developing the European social model of economic growth and democratic capacity”. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)
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Article
The Perception of Polish Business Stakeholders of the Local Economic Impact of Maritime Spatial Planning Promoting the Development of Offshore Wind Energy
Sustainability 2021, 13(12), 6755; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13126755 - 15 Jun 2021
Viewed by 422
Abstract
The recently adopted maritime spatial plan for Polish sea waters promotes offshore wind farm (OWF) development. The study’s identification of the local municipalities affected by offshore development was based on the plan’s provisions. Through the analysis of the plan and literature findings, both [...] Read more.
The recently adopted maritime spatial plan for Polish sea waters promotes offshore wind farm (OWF) development. The study’s identification of the local municipalities affected by offshore development was based on the plan’s provisions. Through the analysis of the plan and literature findings, both positive and negative impacts of future OWF development were identified and examined. Such an analysis seems to be a precondition for the more active engagement of local stakeholders in the debate on the ways in which to best utilize the new opportunities created by the plan and cope with the threats resulting from maritime spatial planning (MSP). The key impacts recognized by the local business stakeholders have been related to landscape pollution and fishing limitations. Stakeholders less frequently have noticed positive impacts of MSP such as development of a new form of tourism. Up to this point, small municipalities have not undertaken sufficient action, and there is a lack of communication between developers, marine planners and coastal communities. Planners have not assessed the impact of their plan on local economic development. The proposed remedies cover standard actions related to communication, education and dialogue, but in addition to that, a consolidated action of local municipalities on how to capitalize on OWF development has been proposed. The first step proposed is preparation of a joint strategy by coastal municipalities addressing this issue. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)
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Article
Effective Implementation of Urban Agendas through Urban Action Structures (UAS): The Case of the Basque Country
Sustainability 2021, 13(11), 6059; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13116059 - 27 May 2021
Viewed by 744
Abstract
Cities are the main contributors to pollution, resource consumption and social inequalities. Therefore, they should play a key role in the path towards a more sustainable scenario in line with SDGs and different Urban Agendas. However, there are still difficulties in their implementation [...] Read more.
Cities are the main contributors to pollution, resource consumption and social inequalities. Therefore, they should play a key role in the path towards a more sustainable scenario in line with SDGs and different Urban Agendas. However, there are still difficulties in their implementation and citizen can play a central role. This paper presents the Urban Action Structures (UAS), understood as entities with a catalytic capacity with respect to innovative urban policies. Methodologically, firstly, a prospective analysis from regional to international level has been developed, making it possible to identify innovative lines of action in the field of sustainable cities. Secondly, the study has focused on identifying and studying UAS that can make it possible to implement the lines of action previously identified. This paper has shown that there are already social structures that can be understood as UAS, since they implement actions aligned with the priorities of the Urban Agenda for the Basque Country and, therefore, of the SDGs. The research concludes that UAS can play a key role in facilitating the implementation of Urban Agendas. Hence, urban policies should favor the generation of UAS, in order to promote long-term urban development and to foster a more sustainable spatial planning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)
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Article
Towards More Balanced Territorial Relations—The Role (and Limitations) of Spatial Planning as a Governance Approach
Sustainability 2021, 13(9), 5308; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13095308 - 10 May 2021
Viewed by 670
Abstract
Decision-makers, planners and administrators involved in different policy domains at different governance levels face the important challenge of fostering more balanced, sustainable and territorially integrated development. Well-designed, multi-level, multi-sector and multi-actor governance arrangements can play a key role in this process through orchestrating [...] Read more.
Decision-makers, planners and administrators involved in different policy domains at different governance levels face the important challenge of fostering more balanced, sustainable and territorially integrated development. Well-designed, multi-level, multi-sector and multi-actor governance arrangements can play a key role in this process through orchestrating the interplay between different spheres, activities, actors and interests. In this paper, we examine the role of spatial planning in improving the relations between rural, peri-urban and urban areas. We analyse the strengths and limitations of spatial planning and explore the connections with territorial development. The methodology used for this analysis combines regional case studies in seven European locations—Ede, Frankfurt/Rhein-Main, Styria/Graz, Helsinki, Lisbon, Lucca and Mid Wales, with rapid appraisals, the analysis of published data, expert judgement and triangulation. We ask under which conditions spatial planning can induce more balanced, sustainable territorial relations, and look at the contribution planning can make to achieving sustainable development goals. The problem of ineffective (or toothless) plan implementation provides the entry point into the analysis and discussion. We illustrate why mutually beneficial relations between urban, peri-urban and rural communities (and territories) cannot simply be planned. Instead, these relationships need to be supported by strategies, policy instruments and governance arrangements that foster synergies between different actors and activities. The planning process itself needs to become more transparent and participatory. We conclude that the questions addressed in this article in an exploratory fashion merit further research especially as a more sustainable and territorially integrated development is becoming increasingly important in European policy making. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)
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Article
The Global Development Formula
Sustainability 2021, 13(9), 5262; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13095262 - 08 May 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 621
Abstract
Development remains a central concept for policy design and implementation aimed at improving the quality of life of the world population, despite a manifest rise in neoliberalist economic growth policy strategic guidance rationales. In accepting the relevance of development processes, this paper proposes [...] Read more.
Development remains a central concept for policy design and implementation aimed at improving the quality of life of the world population, despite a manifest rise in neoliberalist economic growth policy strategic guidance rationales. In accepting the relevance of development processes, this paper proposes a global development formula embracing four main pillars and their respective components: (i) global governance; (ii) global wealth; (iii) global resources; and (vi) global sustainability. Ultimately, this global development perspective presents a more comprehensive and holistic lens than current development visions to demonstrate the development status of territories at all territorial scales. By using existing indexes associated with the proposed main pillars of development, the research presents a novel global development index for 2020. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)
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Article
Building Institutional Capacity to Plan for Climate Neutrality: The Role of Local Co-Operation and Inter-Municipal Networks at the Regional Level
Sustainability 2021, 13(4), 2173; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13042173 - 18 Feb 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 971
Abstract
The institutional capacity of local authorities to integrate climate change mitigation aspects into spatial planning is of vital importance. This paper sets out to investigate this capacity in the county of Stockholm, Sweden, by surveying 26 municipalities and analysing two case study municipalities [...] Read more.
The institutional capacity of local authorities to integrate climate change mitigation aspects into spatial planning is of vital importance. This paper sets out to investigate this capacity in the county of Stockholm, Sweden, by surveying 26 municipalities and analysing two case study municipalities through participation in workshops and interviews. The study shows the need both for a local energy and climate policy domain that can be integrated into spatial planning as well as dedicated personnel to maintain this policy, thereby securing knowledge resources within the organisation. Additionally, the importance of relations to and repertoires for interacting with politicians is highlighted. Lastly, the study demonstrates the complementary added value of a regional-local network administered by the County Administrative Board, spreading learning examples and diffusing theoretical knowledge, as well as sub-regional, inter-municipal networks that enable the transfer of more practical knowledge and provide a platform for concrete action. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)
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Article
Research on the Influence of a High-Speed Railway on the Spatial Structure of the Western Urban Agglomeration Based on Fractal Theory—Taking the Chengdu–Chongqing Urban Agglomeration as an Example
Sustainability 2020, 12(18), 7550; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12187550 - 13 Sep 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 756
Abstract
By shortening the transportation time between cities, high-speed rail shortens the spatial distance between cities and exerts a far-reaching influence on urban agglomerations’ spatial structures. In order to explore the influence of high-speed rail on the spatial reconstruction of an urban agglomeration in [...] Read more.
By shortening the transportation time between cities, high-speed rail shortens the spatial distance between cities and exerts a far-reaching influence on urban agglomerations’ spatial structures. In order to explore the influence of high-speed rail on the spatial reconstruction of an urban agglomeration in western China, this paper employs fractal theory to compare and analyze the spatial structure evolution of the Chengdu–Chongqing urban agglomeration in western China before and after the opening of a high-speed railway. The results show that after the completion of the high-speed railway, the intercity accessibility is improved. The Chengdu–Chongqing urban agglomeration’s spatial distribution shows a decreasing density from the central city to the surrounding areas. Furthermore, the urban system presents a trend of an agglomeration distribution. Therefore, strengthening the construction of high-speed rail channels between primary and medium-sized cities, as well as accelerating the construction of intercity railway networks and rapid transportation systems based on high-speed rail cities, would help develop urban agglomerations in western China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)
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Article
Sustainable and Integrated Urban Planning and Governance in Metropolitan and Medium-Sized Cities
Sustainability 2020, 12(15), 5976; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12155976 - 24 Jul 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1083
Abstract
This paper examines the design and implementation process of Integrated Strategies for Sustainable Urban Development (ISUD), as well as their main effects and lessons learned in two European cities: Barcelona in Spain, a vibrant European metropolis, and Évora in Portugal, a medium-sized city [...] Read more.
This paper examines the design and implementation process of Integrated Strategies for Sustainable Urban Development (ISUD), as well as their main effects and lessons learned in two European cities: Barcelona in Spain, a vibrant European metropolis, and Évora in Portugal, a medium-sized city with a world heritage historic centre. The former is facing socioeconomic challenges in some of its neighbourhoods, while the latter, a regional capital of an already depopulated region, Alentejo, is facing further depopulation and socioeconomic challenges. Following from a qualitative analysis of ISUD and other urban plans implemented in past decades, the article employs a framework with five analytical dimensions, based on the policy cycle (priority setting, participatory approaches, implementation strategy, collaboration networks, and measuring results and impact). These provide a framework to identify best practices. The findings demonstrate that ISUD in both cities provides impetus for sustainable strategic planning, but can be strengthened in particular via the active involvement of citizens and stakeholders in the elaboration and implementation of these ISUD. Conversely, the results demonstrate mounting challenges that many urban planners in medium-sized towns face in relation to inverting depopulation trends, raising further questions of to what extent European Cohesion policy, and ISUD in particular, can contribute to territorial cohesion objectives whilst also aiming to achieve other policy goals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Spatial Planning and Territorial Governance)
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