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A special issue of Urban Science (ISSN 2413-8851).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 July 2025 | Viewed by 15924

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Prof. Dr. Lidia Mierzejewska

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Guest Editor

Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Faculty of Human Geography and Planning, ul. Krygowskiego 10, 61-680 Poznan, Poland
Interests: sustainable development; urban development; spatial planning; urban resilience; green areas; urban greenery
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Alexandru-Ionuţ Petrişor

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Guest Editor

1. Doctoral School of Urban Planning, Ion Mincu University of Architecture and Urbanism, 10014 Bucharest, Romania
2. Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Technical University of Moldova, 2004 Chisinau, Moldova
3. National Institute for Research and Development in Constructions, Urbanism and Sustainable Spatial, Development URBAN-INCERC, 21652 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: environmetrics; systems ecology; spatial ecology; geostatistics; urban ecology; landscape ecology; land cover and use; land cover and use changes; sustainable spatial development
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

In 2006, a report by the European Environment Agency (EEA) announced that urban sprawl is “the ignored challenge”, drawing attention to its consequences at the scale of an entire continent. Urban sprawl was already on the research agenda, but the EEA report made researchers focus their activity on this phenomenon, its drivers and ways to address it. The size of cities continues to proliferate, with alarming predictions for the future given this growth rate and the possible negative outcomes. This growth is intensive, resulting in a densification of the built up area, negative psychological and sociological outcomes, and environmental consequences such as the loss of urban nature and its ecosystem service, as well as extensive, in the form of sprawl. Sprawl also results in the fragmentation and loss of natural landscapes, and in a dependence on automobiles and its associated consequences. As a result, urbanization processes result in increased vulnerability to various types of hazards and stressors. These examples, chosen to exemplify the research presented in this Special Issue, show that urban growth, analyzed at the local and regional scale, exhibits unsustainable patterns.

This Special Issue aims to analyze the current state of urbanization and future perspectives in relation to regional planning and development, focusing on the patterns identified so far and their outcomes. It also focuses on the role of regional planning and development policies in controlling or shaping these patterns, and solutions regarding the enhancement of sustainable urbanization, including building resilience to various types of risks. The scope of this Special Issue includes, but is not limited to, the following topics:

(1) The debate surrounding compact cities versus urban sprawl;

(2) Analyses of current urbanization patterns from the perspective of one or more pillars of sustainability (economy, society, environment, culture);

(3) The role of regional planning and development policies in controlling urbanization;

(4) Future patterns of urbanization, planning policies and strategies;

(5) Instruments for controlling urbanization;

(6) Vulnerability and resilience of urbanized areas and planned urbanization processes, and other relevant issues.

Prof. Dr. Lidia Mierzejewska
Prof. Dr. Alexandru-Ionuţ Petrişor
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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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. Urban Science is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly 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 1600 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

urban sprawl
urban and territorial planning
sustainability pillars
vulnerability
resilience

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Published Papers (14 papers)

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24 pages, 1389 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Climate Change and Urban Resilience in Smart Cities: Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies in Brazil and Germany

by Roberto Schoproni Bichueti, Walter Leal Filho, Clandia Maffini Gomes, Jordana Marques Kneipp, Carlos Rafael Röhrig da Costa and Kamila Frizzo

Urban Sci. 2025, 9(5), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9050179 - 21 May 2025

Viewed by 268

Abstract

Urban resilience is crucial in academic and policy discussions, particularly in balancing urban development and sustainability in both developed and developing countries. In developing nations, rising emissions and vulnerability challenge effective climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. Advances in Information and Communication Technologies offer significant opportunities despite challenges. The digital revolution is central to enhancing urban management, especially in smart cities. In light of this context, this paper aims to investigate the literature advancements of urban resilience to climate change in smart cities and conduct a multi-case study analysis of adaptation and mitigation strategies in Brazilian and German smart cities, demonstrating their efforts to enhance urban resilience to climate challenges. The research used two main methods: a bibliometric analysis to review literature on climate change, urban resilience, and smart cities, and case studies of urban resilience practices in 10 smart cities from Brazil and Germany. The literature review highlights the increase in research on this theme, identifying five thematic clusters that reveal relationships among study topics and suggest future research directions. The cases highlighted local initiatives in Brazilian and German smart cities to enhance urban resilience to climate pressures, revealing notable differences due to varying levels of development and investment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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25 pages, 539 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Future Is in Sustainable Urban Tourism: Technological Innovations, Emerging Mobility Systems and Their Role in Shaping Smart Cities

by Aleksandra Vujko, Miroslav Knežević and Martina Arsić

Urban Sci. 2025, 9(5), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9050169 - 15 May 2025

Viewed by 236

Abstract

This research focuses on the impact of smart city technologies on urban tourism, specifically analyzing Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Vienna, while also considering implications for smart tourism development in Belgrade and other Serbian cities. The aim of the study was to examine how smart city technologies contribute to enhancing the efficiency, digital engagement, and sustainability of urban tourism. A representative sample of 1239 tourists was surveyed, with a balanced gender representation and a predominance of younger respondents, indicating that smart tourism initiatives should cater to tech-savvy travelers. The study employed a questionnaire with 31 statements ranked on a five-point Likert scale, and factor analysis and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) identified three key dimensions: smart efficiency, smart travel, and digital enhancement. These factors highlight how smart technologies optimize urban mobility, enhance travel experiences, and improve tourist engagement. The research confirms the initial hypothesis that integrating smart city technologies enhances urban tourism efficiency and sustainability. Additionally, the study adopts a positivist epistemological approach, emphasizing empirical analysis and statistical validation to derive generalizable findings. The results provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to develop sustainable urban tourism strategies in Serbian cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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25 pages, 5882 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Revolution in Spatial Planning: The Potential of Geolocation Data in Czechia

by Petr Jirásek and Radovan Šomplák

Urban Sci. 2025, 9(5), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9050158 - 7 May 2025

Viewed by 174

Abstract

This article analyzes population movement patterns in the Vysočina Region, Czechia, using mobile network geolocation data. Geolocation data provide new insights into population movement and structure, capturing real-time fluctuations in population size at different times of day and days of the week. The article aims to contribute to a better understanding of spatiotemporal population dynamics and identify links between movement patterns and different types of areas. Key mobility trends, such as work commuting, seasonal migration related to second homes and tourism, and the influence of urbanization on movement patterns, are identified. A scaling approach for categorizing municipalities based on their characteristics is proposed and tested in a case study of Vysočina Region municipalities. Furthermore, a case study of various municipality types demonstrates the practical application of geolocation data in spatial planning. The results highlight the value of these data for spatial planning, enabling a better understanding of population needs and optimization of public services and infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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29 pages, 7194 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nature-Based Urbanism for Enhancing Senior Citizens’ Outdoor Thermal Comfort in High-Density Mediterranean Cities: ENVI-met Findings

by Evgenia Tousi, Athina Mela and Areti Tseliou

Urban Sci. 2025, 9(5), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9050152 - 6 May 2025

Viewed by 293

Abstract

As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of urban heatwaves, elderly populations are becoming increasingly vulnerable to outdoor thermal stress, particularly in dense Mediterranean cities. This study addresses the critical need for micro-scale, climate-responsive design strategies that enhance thermal comfort for aging residents in historically underserved urban neighborhoods. Focusing on the refugee-built area of Nikea in Greater Athens, this research explores the effectiveness of nature-based solutions (NBS) in mitigating extreme heat through spatial interventions tailored to the needs of older adults. Using ENVI-met 5.6.1, two scenarios were simulated: a baseline scenario reflecting existing urban conditions and an optimal scenario incorporating mature tree planting and water features. The results are analyzed across three key time points—morning, peak afternoon, and evening—to capture diurnal thermal variations. The findings demonstrate that NBS significantly reduce the Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET), with peak improvements exceeding 14 °C in shaded zones. This study highlights the value of fine-grained, nature-based urban interventions in promoting thermal equity and supporting climate adaptation for vulnerable populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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29 pages, 5224 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Regional Development Assessment and Policy Perspectives on Urban Residential Energy Efficiency Program in Morocco by 2030

by Fatima Zohra Gargab, Samir Idrissi Kaitouni, Abdelmajid Jamil, Padmanathan Kasinathan, Rachid Saadani and Miloud Rahmoune

Urban Sci. 2025, 9(5), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9050149 - 6 May 2025

Viewed by 274

Abstract

Energy efficiency has emerged as a crucial focal point in global agendas, being recognized for its pivotal role in combatting climate change, bolstering energy security, and fostering economic growth. Governments worldwide are formulating ambitious targets and enacting comprehensive strategies to optimize energy utilization across various sectors. This involves the formulation of policies, provision of incentives, and facilitation of collaborations to encourage energy-efficient practices, ultimately steering towards a sustainable and energy-efficient future. Notably, the residential sector stands as a pivotal component in these efforts due to its substantial share of energy consumption. This paper evaluates the strategic vision of Morocco concerning energy efficiency within the residential sector from its inception to the projected initiatives up to 2030. The analysis focuses on the current iteration of thermal regulations and its implications. Although specific numerical outcomes are not discussed herein, the implementation of these regulations is observed to yield notable benefits, including reductions in energy bills and gains in annual primary energy. These advantages are estimated to result in a substantial decrease in final energy consumption, equating to significant savings for end-users. Additionally, to cover the expenses associated with building repairs and thermal enhancements, an extra fee is levied, varying based on building typology and climatic region. Despite this additional investment, the associated costs typically exhibit a favorable payback period, on average, underscoring the efficacy of regulatory and profitability measures in driving energy efficiency within the residential sector. This paper examines Morocco’s strategic approach to energy efficiency in the residential sector, focusing on its thermal building regulation RTCM (Moroccan thermal regulation on construction). Energy efficiency is recognized as essential for reducing GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions, enhancing energy security, and lowering costs. Using simulation models across six climatic zones and three residential building types, the study highlights RTCM’s significant impact—achieving national energy savings between 39% and 68%. Despite added costs for thermal improvements, the measures show favorable payback periods, confirming RTCM’s strong energy and economic performance and its potential role in shaping future policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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20 pages, 1830 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying Priority Areas for Planning Urban Green Infrastructure: A Fuzzy Artificial Intelligence-Based Framework

by Leonardo Massato Nicacio Nomura, Adriano Bressane, Vitoria Valente Monteiro, Inara Vilas Boas de Oliveira, Graziele Ruas, Rogério Galante Negri and Alexandre Marco da Silva

Urban Sci. 2025, 9(4), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9040126 - 16 Apr 2025

Viewed by 538

Abstract

Urban green infrastructure (UGI) plays a key role in fostering sustainability, resilience, and ecological balance in cities. However, the task of identifying priority areas for UGI implementation remains complex due to the multifactorial nature of urban systems and prevailing uncertainties. This study proposes a fuzzy inference system (FIS)-based framework composed of seven interconnected modules designed to assess diverse criteria, including flood vulnerability, water quality, habitat connectivity, vegetation condition, and social vulnerability. The model was applied in the urban watersheds of São José dos Campos, Brazil, a municipality recognized for its smart city initiatives and urban environmental complexity. Through the integration of multi-criteria spatial data, the framework effectively prioritized urban areas, highlighting critical zones for extreme event mitigation, water quality preservation, habitat conservation, and recreational space provision. The case study demonstrated that São José dos Campos, with an 11.73% urbanized area and 737,310 inhabitants, benefits from targeted UGI typologies, including sustainable drainage systems and green public spaces, aligning infrastructure interventions with specific spatial demands. Notably, the expert validation process involving 18 multidisciplinary specialists confirmed the model’s relevance and coherence, with the majority classifying the outcomes as “highly coherent”. The system’s modular structure, use of triangular membership functions, and incorporation of the gamma operator allow for adaptable prioritization across different planning horizons. By offering a transparent, expert-validated, and data-driven approach, the proposed method advances evidence-based decision-making and equips planners with a practical tool for UGI implementation in dynamic urban contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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23 pages, 2542 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Kazakhstan’s Infrastructure Programs and Urban Sustainability Analysis of Astana

by Zauresh Atakhanova and Marzhan Baigaliyeva

Urban Sci. 2025, 9(4), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9040100 - 27 Mar 2025

Viewed by 2407

Abstract

Astana, Kazakhstan’s capital city since 1997, gained from substantial public investment, achieving relatively low poverty, high income, and broad access to social services. Implementation of the state infrastructure programs, which were aligned with China’s 2013 Belt and Road Initiative, allowed Astana to become a transport hub, attract people, and improve housing conditions. However, our analysis indicates that Astana’s construction boom resulted in intensive use of financial and natural resources. Moreover, the loss of green and blue lands, accelerated during the implementation of the state infrastructure programs, raises concerns about the environmental impacts of infrastructure spending. As a result, our study highlights the importance of further research and broader stakeholder engagement for bringing Astana’s development path into closer alignment with the principles of sustainability. Specifically, Astana’s stakeholders should adhere to best practices of urban ecosystem preservation, managing sprawl, and efficient use of resources. Finally, integrating green and blue infrastructure in setting targets, allocating funding, and monitoring, improving, and reporting on traditional infrastructure initiatives becomes increasingly important for sustainable urban development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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25 pages, 11935 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying the Spatial Coverage of Informal Settlements in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for Better Management and Policy Directions

by Melaku Eticha Taye, Elias Yitbarek Alemayehu and Mintesnot Woldeamanuel

Urban Sci. 2025, 9(4), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9040099 - 26 Mar 2025

Viewed by 966

Abstract

Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia and one of the fastest-expanding cities in Africa, is undergoing rapid urbanization which has led to acute housing scarcity and a growth of informal settlements. The growth of informal settlements seems unstoppable and needs appropriate policy direction to create a sustainable city. Despite the significance of the challenges posed by informal settlements, their coverage is not well-documented or known spatially. The aim of this research is to identify the spatial coverage of informal settlements after restructuring the boundary of the city. This study reviewed the existing literature and different spatial data including city wide line maps, land use plan, all cadaster data, and other spatial maps collected from different sources including city sectoral offices. Furthermore, observation and interviews with experts in the field were conducted to better understand the context of informal settlements. The data were analyzed by ArcGIS 10.8 software to identify the location of informal settlements by overlying those data and verifying this with field observation at selected areas using recent satellite images. The results show that about 50 percent of the settlements are informal. It was revealed that the existing data are fragmented, inconsistent, and difficult to access or retrieve. In this regard, informal settlements are still a critical and growing issue with regard to fast urbanization. Therefore, the results can be used for academic research, devising appropriate policy direction, and in decision-making for sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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26 pages, 2612 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic Management and Security Risk Assessment of Energy Systems

by Viktor Koval, Dzintra Atstāja, Nadiia Shmygol, Viktoriia Udovychenko, Hanna Hrinchenko and Oksana Tsimoshynska

Urban Sci. 2025, 9(2), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9020048 - 14 Feb 2025

Viewed by 763

Abstract

This study examines methods for assessing the risks of energy systems that supply urban areas based on an integrated approach in which a qualitative assessment takes into account internal and external impacts as an element of a multifactorial analysis. A risk matrix is offered for risk assessment, which was built for energy infrastructure facilities and takes into account the features of the functioning of energy equipment which is potentially dangerous due to the probability of failures on a five-point scale and the possible degree of severity of the consequences due to the possibility of restoring the systems. The study proposes two statistical models for the assessment of reliability parameters before the onset of a critical situation and calculations after a critical event, i.e., the probability of the restoration or adaptation of the energy system object being analyzed and the degree of such restoration. This approach allows for the consideration of risks, taking into account both the technical condition of power equipment and environmental aspects, including their mutual influence, for sustainable management. This approach evaluates the energy system’s failure intensity and recovery probability based on the parameters developed to assess the system functionality and resilience effectively. A risk assessment using reliability parameters based on maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) showed that when sampling statistical data with a total number of n = 10, the accuracy of risk assessment according to indicator parameters increases by 15%, which is especially relevant for the potential safety of urban energy systems. A list of threats is proposed for the multifactorial risk analysis of an energy company based on an expert assessment of their likelihood and consequences. The constructed risk matrix reduces the level of threat, which helps to increase the efficiency of risk management both at the stages of planning and forecasting and during operation, including the management of socio-economic consequences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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14 pages, 17554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Playgrounds as Residual Areas—Case Study of a Playground Regeneration Proposal in Târgu-Mureș, Romania

by Endre Kentelky, Hadassa Dumitru, Ildikó Lihăt and Zsolt Szekely-Varga

Urban Sci. 2024, 8(4), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci8040203 - 6 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1104

Abstract

Playgrounds are envisaged as spaces designed to provide a safe and enjoyable environment that facilitates physical activity among children and adolescents. However, in various instances within cities formerly under socialist governance, these playgrounds have suffered neglect and lacked maintenance, coherent conceptual frameworks, professional oversight, suitable materials for playground structures, and attention to vegetation or potentially toxic elements. They became residual areas in the city’s built environment. Presently, the evaluation and the regeneration of playgrounds in cities have emerged as a significant task. Amidst the densely populated urban fabric, these spaces hold considerable importance for outdoor activities, social interaction, recreational pursuits, and the healthy development of future generations. Simultaneously, these places can play a crucial role in a city’s green infrastructure, local landscapes, and the challenges of sustainability prompted by climate change. The landscape analysis of 22 playgrounds classified them based on land use characteristics, location, functions, equipment, quality, and accessibility. A case study in Târgu-Mureș, scrutinized in detail within this analysis due to its proximity to the city center, within a densely populated urban area, and its multifaceted functionalities, underscores the need for a comprehensive approach encompassing diverse disciplines to address its manifold usage requirements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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18 pages, 16579 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design of a Green Corridor and the Revitalization of the Huatanay River, City of Cuzco, Peru—2024

by Válery Larrea, Fabricio Pelaez and Doris Esenarro

Urban Sci. 2024, 8(4), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci8040185 - 22 Oct 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1697

Abstract

Population growth in the last 30 years has generated an energy shortage and excessive consumption of products, generating a large percentage of solid waste. Urban expansion has led to a significant impact on the biodiversity of both flora and fauna. In this context, the objective of this research is to develop a design for a green corridor that optimizes ecological energy efficiency and contributes to the revaluation of the Huatanay River in Cuzco. The methodology used in this study is articulated in four stages: literature analysis; analysis of the environment through supporting data such as Climate consultant, SIGRID, and GEO Peru; results where the proposed project is carried out; and finally, the conclusions and discussions where they are contrasted with a similar bibliography. The design of the green corridor efficiently takes advantage of the natural resources available in the area, which has 70% green areas and 30% public spaces, where 13 kWh/day of energy is generated, according to the calculations made in sector 2 of the botanical garden that will later be replicated in the other sectors, derived from biodigesters for the lighting of spaces of the botanical garden. The corridor, in turn, aims to recover the ecological function of the river through the restoration of its course, the reforestation of its banks, and the creation of recreational areas. In conclusion, the green corridor aims to revitalize the Huatanay River through different elements, among which the botanical garden stands out. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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22 pages, 10724 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Infrastructure as a Sustainability Strategy for Biodiversity Preservation: The Case Study of Pantanos de Villa, Lima, Peru

by Doris Esenarro, Patricia Vasquez, Adán Acosta-Banda and Vanessa Raymundo

Urban Sci. 2024, 8(4), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci8040156 - 27 Sep 2024

Viewed by 2355

Abstract

Currently, the lack of adequate spaces for raising awareness among the population, coupled with disorderly urban growth, has led to an increase in water pollution from solid waste and the disruption of natural habitats in Villa Marshes. Therefore, this research focuses on implementing green corridors for the study of birdlife and environmental education, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of preserving this ecosystem. Various methodologies were employed, including climate analysis, characterization of flora and fauna, and bioclimatic design strategies supported by specialized software. The feasibility of this proposal was compared with other similar projects, emphasizing community importance. As a result, a network of green corridors was designed, including environmental education and visitor centers, along with the implementation of renewable energies to enhance energy efficiency. The main conclusion is that integrating renewable energies into the conservation of Villa Marshes offers a unique opportunity to promote a balance between human development and environmental protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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Review

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25 pages, 1578 KiB

Open AccessReview

Systematic Review of Dimensions and Indicators in Sustainable and Smart Cities: Trends, Interdependencies, and Continental Variations

by Roger Alejandro Parra-Pulido, Yolanda Teresa Hernández-Peña and Carlos Alfonso Zafra-Mejía

Urban Sci. 2024, 8(4), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci8040202 - 6 Nov 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2587

Abstract

Accelerated urbanization challenges cities globally. Ensuring good quality of life and environmental protection requires innovative, data-driven solutions. Sustainable and smart cities (SSCs) offer a promising response, but effective implementation depends on selecting and using appropriate dimensions and indicators. The main objective of this article is to present a systematic review within the framework of SSCs to study trends in the use of dimensions and indicators. A citation frequency index (Q) considering quartiles is used to determine the importance of the variables considered in this study. A spatiotemporal analysis of the dimensions and indicators detected is also performed. The results suggest that the multifaceted nature of SSCs necessitates a holistic approach, with environmental (Q3 = 0.536) and social (Q2 = 0.403) dimensions being principal. Despite the lower ranking (Q1 = 0.080) of the information and communication technology (ICT) dimension, its pervasive influence highlights its evolving importance. Effective ICT implementation relies on robust social and environmental foundations, illustrating their interdependence. The governance (Q1 = 0.169) dimension is also essential for the creation of transparent and equitable urban policies. Key indicators related to energy systems (Q2 = 0.379), data analysis (Q2 = 0.327), and resource management (Q2 = 0.291) are crucial for operational efficiency and sustainability. Continental differences in prioritizing SSC dimensions highlight the importance of context-specific strategies, reflecting unique challenges and opportunities faced by different continental areas. By understanding and addressing these continental differences, policymakers and urban planners can more effectively promote sustainable and resilient urban development worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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25 pages, 2338 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

From Adversity to Advantage: A Systematic Literature Review on Regional Economic Resilience

by Mantas Rimidis and Mindaugas Butkus

Urban Sci. 2025, 9(4), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9040118 - 9 Apr 2025

Viewed by 963

Abstract

Recent years have been exceptionally turbulent due to various crises such as COVID-19, wars, and natural disasters. We conduct a systematic literature review to address the current state of the regional economic resilience literature, a topic regaining significance amid recent global crises. Considering the findings, we not only conduct the most up-to-date analysis of resilience types but also innovate previous research by collecting and processing data on the spatial and income features of regions, providing statistics about shock coverage, and sharing insights into region types. Additionally, we supplement the systematic literature analysis methodology by experimenting with large language models and defining new search strategies. The results show that most of the literature covers European countries, while that covering all other countries is far behind. Empirical coverage comes from high- and upper-middle-income countries (~97% of research), highlighting the lack of analysis on lower-middle- and low-income countries. This brings into question the applicability of regional resilience policies worldwide. The latest papers still mainly analyze the Great Recession, the most covered shock in the regional economic resilience literature. Not all authors have turned their attention to more recent crises. Finally, we believe future research should focus more on compound resilience—how regional economies cope with cascading or simultaneous shocks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urbanization, Regional Planning and Development)

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