Search Results (60)

This paper presents an enhanced hub location model tailored to port–hinterland logistics planning, grounded in the Capacitated Multiple-Allocation Hub Location Problem (CMAHLP). The formulation incorporates nonlinear cost structures, hub-specific operating costs, adaptive capacity constraints, and a feasibility condition based on the Social Net Present Value (NPVsocial) to support the design of intermodal freight networks under asymmetric spatial and socio-environmental conditions. The empirical case focuses on Spain, leveraging its strategic position between Asia, North Africa, and Europe. The model includes four major ports—Barcelona, Valencia, Málaga, and Algeciras—as intermodal gateways connected to the 47 provinces of peninsular Spain through calibrated cost matrices based on real distances and mode-specific road and rail costs. A Genetic Algorithm is applied to evaluate 120 scenarios, varying the number of active hubs (4, 6, 8, 10, 12), transshipment discounts (α = 0.2 and 1.0), and internal parameters. The most efficient configuration involved 300 generations, 150 individuals, a crossover rate of 0.85, and a mutation rate of 0.40. The algorithm integrates guided mutation, elitist reinsertion, and local search on the top 15% of individuals. Results confirm the central role of Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona, frequently accompanied by high-performance inland hubs such as Málaga, Córdoba, Jaén, Palencia, León, and Zaragoza. Cities with active ports such as Cartagena, Seville, and Alicante appear in several of the most efficient network configurations. Their recurring presence underscores the strategic role of inland hubs located near seaports in supporting logistical cohesion and operational resilience across the system. The COVID-19 crisis, the Suez Canal incident, and the persistent tensions in the Red Sea have made clear the fragility of traditional freight corridors linking Asia and Europe. These shocks have brought renewed strategic attention to southern Spain—particularly the Mediterranean and Andalusian axes—as viable alternatives that offer both geographic and intermodal advantages. In this evolving context, the contribution of southern hubs gains further support through strong system-wide performance indicators such as entropy, cluster diversity, and Pareto efficiency, which allow for the assessment of spatial balance, structural robustness, and optimal trade-offs in intermodal freight planning. Southern hubs, particularly in coordination with North African partners, are poised to gain prominence in an emerging Euro–Maghreb logistics interface that demands a territorial balance and resilient port–hinterland integration. Full article

As a globe leader in tourism, Spain relies on this sector as a key economic pillar, contributing over 12% to its GDP. The hospitality industry has expanded steadily in response to growing demand. In parallel, recent years have witnessed an exponential rise in tourist accommodations, such as privately owned properties repurposed for short-term rentals, largely facilitated by digital platforms. This study explores the evolution and spatial distribution of these accommodations, assessing their share within the overall housing stock across different scales. The focus is on Andalusian municipalities, a region characterized by both its geographical diversity and its significant tourism footprint. This study highlights two primary areas of concentration: the region’s Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines (most notably the Costa del Sol, centered in Malaga) and internationally renowned heritage cities such as Seville, Granada, and Cordoba. By applying quantitative methods, this research assesses the clustering of tourist accommodations in relation to major cultural landmarks, including several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The findings provide an analysis of the implications of this trend, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities it presents within the tourism sector, particularly against the backdrop of mounting criticism surrounding the sustainability and socio-economic impacts of this evolving model of tourism. Full article

In the European Union, 75% of the residential building stock is estimated to have energy inefficiencies, which increases the probability of falling into energy poverty. Poor thermal conditions reduce the quality of life of dwelling occupants. Renovating the residential building stock is essential to reduce energy consumption, CO₂ emissions, and energy poverty in cities. This study aims to assess and map the energy efficiency and energy poverty of residential buildings in Seville at the urban district and census tract level. A total of 45,908 dwellings were evaluated using data from the Energy Performance Certificates database and demographic and economic information from national and official databases. The analysis considers dwelling typology, year of construction, average household income, and geographic location at the district and census tract level. The results show that Seville’s residential building stock performs poorly, with 83% and 92% of dwellings rated “E” or lower for energy consumption and CO₂ emissions, respectively. The findings of this GIS-based study help identify urban areas with less efficient buildings and higher energy poverty risk, providing valuable information to develop targeted renovation strategies and reduce the climate impact of Seville’s residential building stock. Full article

Electrifying urban last-mile logistics is an important step towards reducing carbon emissions which requires replacing conventional vehicles with low-carbon alternatives that offer comparable operational and cost characteristics. This study presents a methodology for evaluating the feasibility of electrifying an urban delivery fleet, using data from a major beverage company in Seville as a case study. Applying a fleet and route optimization algorithm for various vehicle combinations, we demonstrate that emerging electric vehicle options, combined with a redesigned fleet mix and an optimized routing, can already enable cost-efficient electrification of distribution activities in the city centre. Furthermore, our analysis suggests that full electrification of the company’s local distribution network may be possible by 2030, depending on the availability of larger electric trucks. Our results show that currently available electric vehicles can fully substitute conventional options in the case study context, with higher capital costs offset by lower energy costs in most cases. The electrification of urban logistics can yield significant environmental benefits, particularly if powered by a clean energy mix. Full article

During the Modern Age, Seville was known as the Port of the Indies due to its key role in transatlantic trade, although the actual port was located in Triana, a riverside quarter outside the city walls along the Guadalquivir River. This area was essential for maritime and commercial activities, shaping Seville’s economic and social development. This study analyses Triana’s urban layout, social composition, and architecture in the 16th century using historical sources and graphic representations. The quarter combined defensive structures, religious buildings, and residential complexes, reflecting both its strategic importance and distinct identity. Its streets and architecture supported defense, commerce, and daily life, while its diverse community (including sailors, merchants, craftsmen, and dockworkers) was central to its mercantile and manufacturing activity. Architecturally, Triana featured traditional dwellings, corrales de vecinos, mesones, and posadas, that facilitated trade and travel. Examining these elements reveals Triana’s adaptability to economic and social conditions, highlighting its resilience, diverse population, and rich architectural heritage within Seville’s historical context and Atlantic trade. Full article

Traffic-related air pollution significantly affects air quality. Many cities have introduced low emission zones (LEZs) to restrict urban transport. Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is a dangerous pollutant associated with adverse health effects, such as respiratory diseases, cancer, and death. This research aimed to evaluate the impact of implementing an LEZ during an informative period in which no fines were imposed on vehicles. The methodology consisted of several phases. Firstly, the legal levels to guarantee compliance with air quality standards of the Directive 2008/50/EC were studied. Secondly, this study analyzed the temperature and wind speed patterns of the city under investigation. Finally, an in-depth statistical study evaluated the impact of the LEZ at each air quality monitoring station throughout the municipality. The case study focused on Seville, Spain, using data from 2022, 2023, and the first quarter of 2024, the latter corresponding to the reporting period without fines. The results reveal a wide dispersion and periodicity in NO₂ concentrations at the monitoring stations. Seville complied with NO₂ air quality regulations before the implementation of the LEZ, with similar seasonal patterns observed. A low overall impact was observed in the first three months after implementation. This methodology can be used universally. Full article

Urban squares in historic neighborhoods are vital public spaces, often the only nearby option available for an aging population. However, these spaces face increasing thermal discomfort exacerbated by urban heat island (UHI) effects. This research focuses on improving thermal comfort for two case studies located in Seville’s high-density and historically rich Casco Antiguo neighborhood. Although their significance and social value make them central meeting points for locals and visitors, these squares face major challenges regarding thermal comfort, mainly due to a lack of greenery or adequate shading. This study examines the conditions by conducting in-person monitoring and simulations, identifying factors contributing to discomfort. On the basis of this, the research proposes mitigation strategies to address these issues. These solutions include the installation of green walls, the addition of canopies, and the application of specific surface materials to improve the conditions of these squares. Canopies provided the most significant cooling, reducing universal thermal climate index (UTCI) values by up to 6.5 °C. Green walls delivered localized cooling, lowering the mean radiant temperature (MRT) by up to 5 °C. The results reveal how these approaches can bring about changes in thermal comfort in a way that benefits historic city environments. Full article

Air pollution in urban street canyons presents a serious health risk, especially in densely populated areas. While previous research has explored airflow characteristics in these canyons, it often lacks detailed data on pollutant dispersion and the effects of wind speed on airflow patterns and vortex formation. This study uses Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to deliver quantitative measurements of pollutant dispersion rates and qualitative insights into airflow patterns across various street canyon morphologies. The analysis examines a range of aspect ratios (ARs), from wide (AR = 0.75) to narrow (AR = 4.5), and different wind speeds to evaluate their effects on pollutant dispersion. Findings indicate that purging flow rates decline as the AR increases, with a more pronounced decrease at lower AR values. In narrower streets, airflow patterns are particularly sensitive to wind velocity, leading to unexpected vortices that hinder effective pollutant dispersion. By incorporating these insights into urban design strategies, cities can enhance street ventilation, thereby reducing pollutant concentrations and improving public health. This study also tests a specific street layout in Seville to predict pollutant accumulation under various conditions, assessing health risks based on World Health Organization guidelines. Ultimately, this research aids in developing healthier, more sustainable urban environments. Full article

One of the most significant urban challenges focuses on addressing the effects of urban overheating as a consequence of climate change. Several methods have been developed to characterize urban heat islands (UHIs); however, the most widely used involve complex planning, huge time consumption, and substantial human and technical resources on field monitoring campaigns. Therefore, this study aims to provide an easily accessible and affordable remote sensing method for locating urban hotspots and addresses a multi-criteria assessment of urban heat-related parameters, allowing for a comprehensive city-wide evaluation. The novelty is based on leveraging the potential of the last Landsat 9 satellite, the application of kernel spatial interpolation, and GIS open access data, providing very high-resolution land surface temperature images over urban spaces. Within GIS workflow, the city is divided into LCZs, thermal hotspots are detected, and finally, it is analyzed to understand how urban factors, such as urban boundaries, building density, and vegetation, affect urban scale LST, all using graphical and analytical cross-assessment. The methodology has been tested in Seville, a representative warm Mediterranean city, where variations of up to 10 °C have been found between homogeneous residential areas. Thermal hotspots have been located, representing 11% of the total residential fabric, while results indicate a clear connection between the urban factors studied and overheating. The conclusions support the possibility of generating a powerful affordable tool for future research and the design of public policy renewal actions in vulnerable areas. Full article

The concept of the “x-minute city” emphasises connected, mixed-use, and functionally dense urban areas where residents can access most daily necessities within a short walk or bike ride. By promoting proximity to essential destinations and sustainable transport options, this approach reduces the need for extensive travel and minimises environmental impact. This paper analyses the readiness of cities to function as x-minute cities and identifies necessary interventions. Using a reproducible and scalable methodology based on open data and software, the study assesses the accessibility of key urban amenities within specified timeframes. Cumulative accessibility metrics are calculated for different destination categories, considering both walking and cycling. In the case of Seville, accessibility requirements outlined in policy documents are already met for many essential services, particularly public facilities. The study identifies neighbourhoods that excel in accessibility and others that require improvement in adhering to x-minute city principles. The methodology and findings can inform planning and policy decisions in other cities, guiding efforts to enhance amenity provision, test accessibility scenarios, and target intervention areas. Full article

The prevalence of prenatal tobacco exposure remains high in many countries, particularly in southern Europe. The aims of this study were to estimate the prevalence of smoking among pregnant women in a southern Spanish city (Seville) and to identify the associated sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics. In a descriptive, cross-sectional study, a random sample of pregnant women who were scheduled to undergo a morphology scan at their public referral hospital in their 20th week of gestation were interviewed in person. At the start of pregnancy, 38.2% of the pregnant women were smokers. In the twentieth week, 19.1% continued to smoke, and the same percentage had quit. The prevalence of smoking in pregnant women was higher among those with a low level of education (60% among pregnant women with no studies and 30.4% in those with primary education) and among those who had had abortions (38.5%). Pregnant smokers with obesity were the least likely to have given up smoking during pregnancy. Women with a lower educational level should be a prime target for cross-sectoral interventions aimed at preventing prenatal tobacco exposure. Implementation of support measures for providing effective clinical advice in preconception and prenatal care regarding healthy lifestyles is particularly needed. Full article

The architectural heritage of a particular place, in most cases, is characterised by vernacular and unique constructions that have been adapted to local climate conditions. For this purpose, specific materials and construction methods have traditionally been used that, in addition to the durability of the construction, also allow for the consideration of the energy efficiency of the building itself. The present intersection of climate change and architecture has led to new exposure to the external agents for which constructions were designed, forcing, in most cases, a review of building envelopes and very costly proposals. From the point of view of efficiency, intervention strategies with passive measures are proposed that not only improve the energy performance and maintenance of buildings themselves, but also lower the overall energy consumption. Using a heritage case study of the city of Seville, the Moroccan Pavilion, at Expo 92, this work includes an analysis and proposal of effective action through a methodological study of energy efficiency. The problem of high energy consumption during the summer months in Seville is tested in the Pavilion. The results indicate an urgent need for renovation, and among different options, new intervention measures are recommended as an alternative to consumption based on knowledge and tradition; moreover, passive construction elements are proposed in accordance with the climatic reality of the environment for optimal conservation in new climate scenarios. Full article

Introduction: During the summer of 2019 and within the framework of a social dentistry program carried out in the low-income town of San Francisco de Macorís (Dominican Republic), a descriptive study was carried out on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), aiming to find out the oral health status of a population of children in the aforementioned Dominican city. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the oral health status of a child population and its relationship with the quality of life perceived by these children in the aforementioned population of San Francisco de Macorís in order to develop an specific oral health program taking into account not only the existing oral health status but also the perceptions and feelings of the child population in this regard. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on a representative sample of children who were examined on their oral health status, following WHO guidelines, by professionals from the University of Seville (Spain) together with professionals from private practice (USA) and students from the Universidad Católica Nordestana (UCNE, Dominican Republic). Likewise, the children’s parents voluntarily completed the Oral Quality of Life questionnaire COHIP-19 in its culturally adapted Spanish version. Results: For this purpose, 94 children with a mean age of 10.34 (SD 3.38) were observed in our study following WHO recommendations for oral health studies and evaluating OHQoL using the specific questionnaire validated in Spanish COHIP-19 in its short format (SF). The results show a state of oral health with a significant prevalence of caries (80.9%) and a DMFT of 1.70 (SD 1.90). The OHQoL perceived by these children shows that pain, bad breath or feeling sad because of the condition of their teeth were the factors with the worst evaluation score. Conclusions: The conclusion that mainly emerges from this study is that caries continues to be the main problem to be solved (more than other variables studied, such as malocclusion or fluorosis), and this ailment also causes pain, dysfunction, and bad breath and is therefore perceived as a problem to be solved in the children of this Dominican city. Full article

As urban areas expand, the focus on improving outdoor thermal comfort intensifies. This study generated Summer Discomfort Index (SDI) maps for Seville and Barcelona (Spain), as well as Tetuan (Morocco). SDI integrates temperature and humidity for an accurate comfort assessment. Calculations involved substituting air temperature with land surface data from MODIS and incorporating humidity from weather stations, then comparing it to Thermal Sensation Votes (TSV) gathered through surveys. The objective was to assess thermal comfort levels and explore the relationship between remotely sensed SDI and residents’ reported perception. These detailed SDI maps offer crucial insights into summer thermal conditions, advancing urban climate studies and influencing urban planning, design, and well-being strategies. Full article

Encouraged by the administration, the gen9otrification process has been useful in economic terms for the reactivation of the socio-cultural fabrics of historic urban spaces in decline. What was initially considered an advantage has led to the touristification of historic centers, and in turn to the alteration of their original use. In these settings, the demographic void caused by increasingly shunning local identity has combined with pressure from excessive tourism and the obsolescence of heritage protection bodies in charge of conservation. Given the crisis affecting the definitions of the current system, this study aims to review the environmental agents of heritage value in relation to the processes of touristification and gentrification. Data obtained from different methodologies are analyzed using a multidisciplinary database, a model which enables the analysis of the relevant information from the different interacting fields. This case study focuses on the historic town center of Seville, specifically between 2015 and 2020. Elements are defined as indicators for these processes and the analysis of this case study will comprise the main results of this research. Full article