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21 pages, 2442 KiB  
Article
Net-Zero Backup Solutions for Green Ammonia Hubs Based on Hydrogen Power Generation
by Markus Strömich-Jenewein, Abdessamad Saidi, Andrea Pivatello and Stefano Mazzoni
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3364; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133364 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 349
Abstract
This paper explores cleaner and techno-economically viable solutions to provide electricity, heat, and cooling using green hydrogen (H2) and green ammonia (NH3) across the entire decarbonized value chain. We propose integrating a 100% hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engine (e.g., Jenbacher [...] Read more.
This paper explores cleaner and techno-economically viable solutions to provide electricity, heat, and cooling using green hydrogen (H2) and green ammonia (NH3) across the entire decarbonized value chain. We propose integrating a 100% hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engine (e.g., Jenbacher JMS 420) as a stationary backup solution and comparing its performance with other backup technologies. While electrochemical storage systems, or battery energy storage systems (BESSs), offer fast and reliable short-term energy buffering, they lack flexibility in relocation and typically involve higher costs for extended backup durations. Through five case studies, we highlight that renewable-based energy supply requires additional capacity to bridge longer periods of undersupply. Our results indicate that, for cost reasons, battery–electric solutions alone are not economically feasible for long-term backup. Instead, a more effective system combines both battery and hydrogen storage, where batteries address daily fluctuations and hydrogen engines handle seasonal surpluses. Despite lower overall efficiency, gas engines offer favorable investment and operating costs in backup applications with low annual operating hours. Furthermore, the inherent fuel flexibility of combustion engines eventually will allow green ammonia-based backup systems, particularly as advancements in small-scale thermal cracking become commercially available. Future studies will address CO2 credit recognition, carbon taxes, and regulatory constraints in developing more effective dispatch and master-planning solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies on Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems of the Future)
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12 pages, 327 KiB  
Article
The Dynamics of Broiler Meat Supply in South Africa and Its Implications for Achieving SDG 2: Zero Hunger
by Gabriel Mmila and Lindikaya W. Myeki
Agriculture 2025, 15(12), 1236; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15121236 - 6 Jun 2025
Viewed by 508
Abstract
Broiler meat remains an important source of food with immense potential for ending hunger as well as achieving food and nutrition security (SDG 2). We apply the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model to time-series data spanning from 2010 to 2021 to ascertain the [...] Read more.
Broiler meat remains an important source of food with immense potential for ending hunger as well as achieving food and nutrition security (SDG 2). We apply the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model to time-series data spanning from 2010 to 2021 to ascertain the response of South Africa’s broiler meat supply to changes in imports, exports, and inflation. The results show that broiler supply from local producers is negatively affected by the quantity of broiler meat imported. For every unit increase in broiler meat imports, domestic broiler supply decreases by −0.12% in the long run. However, in the short run, for every 1% increase in the broiler imports, there is an increase of 0.07% in domestic broiler supply. The supply of domestic broiler meat increases by 0.37% for every 1% increase in the consumer price index in the long run, while the unit increase in the consumer price index is associated with a decrease of 2.12 in domestic broiler supply in the short run. In the short run, broiler exports have a positive relationship with domestic broiler supply. A unit increase in broiler exports is associated with a 0.04 increase in the domestic broiler supply. The earlier finding could allow for greater development of the local broiler industry through South Africa’s Poultry Masterplan, by increasing domestic broiler meat supply to discourage imports and to increase broiler exports contributing to the pressing need for job creation and food security, but the latter can exact an inhibiting effect on the accessibility of broiler meat. We concluded that the attainment of SDG 2 in South Africa is possible if policy strikes a balance between food availability and accessibility, particularly when it comes to broiler meat as it is the cheapest source of protein. This could be achieved through increased investment towards expanding domestic broiler production and promoting strategies for reasonable pricing of poultry, while giving priority to consumer health concerns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Food Security and Healthy Nutrition)
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32 pages, 12755 KiB  
Article
An Ontology-Aided Generative Computational Design Process for Ecological Building Envelopes: Development of a Conceptual Framework for the Early Design Stage
by Michael Hensel, Jakub Tyc, Albin Ahmeti and Defne Sunguroğlu Hensel
Land 2025, 14(4), 840; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14040840 - 11 Apr 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 750
Abstract
The context for this article is sustainable and ecological green city and building design; the intent is to advance architecture and ecology integration and multi-species design in architecture through the development of a conceptual framework for and computational approach to the early-stage design [...] Read more.
The context for this article is sustainable and ecological green city and building design; the intent is to advance architecture and ecology integration and multi-species design in architecture through the development of a conceptual framework for and computational approach to the early-stage design of ecological building envelopes, which are enclosures of buildings that make provisions for humans, plants, and animals. This entails two research questions: (1) how to integrate architectural and ecological domain knowledge into a conceptual and methodological framework and (2) how to develop a computational workflow and components for the early-stage design of ecological building envelopes. A mixed-method approach was used to develop an ontology-aided generative computational design process that combines computational ontologies, a voxel model, and rule-based processes that generate design variety. The process was developed to support two dominant design cases in architectural practice: masterplan design and building design. This article outlines the underlying key concepts, the computational workflow, and the developed key computational components and summarily indicates validation approaches during the development process. Finally, thoughts on the technical implementation of the computational workflow and components are indicated and further research questions are outlined. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrating Urban Design and Landscape Architecture (Second Edition))
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15 pages, 5029 KiB  
Article
Planning for Change Adaptability and Circularity of Communities and Homes
by Avi Friedman
Sci 2025, 7(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci7010020 - 13 Feb 2025
Viewed by 651
Abstract
This paper addresses the need to decarbonize built environments by altering community planning and home design. By employing principles of Circular Economy at the community and dwelling levels, the paper argues that having flexible design strategies can contribute to the reduction of the [...] Read more.
This paper addresses the need to decarbonize built environments by altering community planning and home design. By employing principles of Circular Economy at the community and dwelling levels, the paper argues that having flexible design strategies can contribute to the reduction of the carbon footprint of urban areas by minimizing the need for demolition and, as a result, material waste. Currently, depending on location and cultural and economic conditions, large-scale developments might take many years to approve and construct. Moreover, when changes are to be introduced to an initially approved masterplan, the process of obtaining municipal planning approval can be lengthy. By using a case study-based methodology for community and home design, this research argues that, given the rapidly emerging new social challenges, neighbourhoods can be designed to adapt and accommodate changes they may encounter throughout their development and in subsequent years. The proposed approval procedure that this research introduces provides a step-by-step approach to planning that can be readily adjusted based on market demand and newly developing economic and social conditions. To demonstrate his research in partnership with a private developer and the municipality, the author utilized these techniques in the design of a community in La Prairie, a town near Montreal, in Quebec, Canada. The paper also introduces the concepts of adaptability and circularity at the dwelling unit level to minimize demolition and waste. The energy efficient design incorporates demountable partitions and specialized conduits for the installation and improvement of utility lines. By investigating the macro and micro levels, the author concludes that changes to the current system, while considering the needs of key stakeholders, stand to reduce demolition and waste. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers—Multidisciplinary Sciences 2024)
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22 pages, 9741 KiB  
Article
Assessing Green Strategies for Urban Cooling in the Development of Nusantara Capital City, Indonesia
by Radyan Putra Pradana, Vinayak Bhanage, Faiz Rohman Fajary, Wahidullah Hussainzada, Mochamad Riam Badriana, Han Soo Lee, Tetsu Kubota, Hideyo Nimiya and I Dewa Gede Arya Putra
Climate 2025, 13(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13020030 - 31 Jan 2025
Viewed by 2319
Abstract
The relocation of Indonesia’s capital to Nusantara in East Kalimantan has raised concerns about microclimatic impacts resulting from proposed land use and land cover (LULC) changes. This study explored strategies to mitigate these impacts by using dynamical downscaling with the Weather Research and [...] Read more.
The relocation of Indonesia’s capital to Nusantara in East Kalimantan has raised concerns about microclimatic impacts resulting from proposed land use and land cover (LULC) changes. This study explored strategies to mitigate these impacts by using dynamical downscaling with the Weather Research and Forecasting model integrated with the urban canopy model (WRF-UCM). Numerical experiments at a 1 km spatial resolution were used to evaluate the impacts of green and mitigation strategies on the proposed master plan. In this process, five scenarios were analyzed, incorporating varying proportions of blue–green spaces and modifications to building walls and roof albedos. Among them, scenario 5, with 65% blue–green spaces, exhibited the highest cooling potential, reducing average urban surface temperatures by approximately 2 °C. In contrast, scenario 4, which allocated equal shares of built-up areas and mixed forests (50% each), achieved a more modest reduction of approximately 1 °C. The adoption of nature-based solutions and sustainable urban planning in Nusantara underscores the feasibility of climate-resilient urban development. This framework could inspire other cities worldwide, showcasing how urban growth can align with environmental sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Smart Technologies in Climate Risk and Adaptation)
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22 pages, 11317 KiB  
Article
Planning for a Warmer Future: Heat Risk Assessment and Mitigation in Lahti, Finland
by Ankur Negi, Rohinton Emmanuel and Eeva Aarrevaara
Atmosphere 2025, 16(2), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16020146 - 29 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1240
Abstract
With global climate change causing temperature increases, even cooler regions like Finland are facing increasing heat risks. The city of Lahti is expected to experience a higher-than-average temperature increase, making heat risk mitigation essential. This study aims to assess present and future heat [...] Read more.
With global climate change causing temperature increases, even cooler regions like Finland are facing increasing heat risks. The city of Lahti is expected to experience a higher-than-average temperature increase, making heat risk mitigation essential. This study aims to assess present and future heat risks in Lahti using exposure and social vulnerability indicators to identify heat risk hotspots and provide strategies for mitigation within the city’s urban planning framework. The method utilizes a combination of Land Surface Temperature (LST) data (2014–2024), climate projections, and microclimate analysis to identify heat risk in the city. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and ENVI-met modeling were employed to assess the relationship between land surface temperatures (LST), urban structure, and green infrastructure. Risk assessments were conducted using social and environmental vulnerability indicators, and future projections were based on a combined SSP2-4.5 scenario. The results show a significant increase in high-risk areas by 2040, rising from 9.79% to 23.65% of Lahti’s core urban area. Although the current urban planning framework of the city (Masterplan 2035) is effective in terms of maintaining exposure levels, the continued increase in projected air temperatures, as modeled based on outputs of the EC-Earth3-veg GCM, remains a concern. Microclimate modeling confirmed that urban greenery significantly reduces heat stress and improves thermal comfort. To address future heat risks, Lahti must integrate more green infrastructure into its urban design and identify seasonal heat mitigation methodologies. Additionally, the findings emphasize the need for adaptive planning strategies to mitigate rising temperatures and ensure urban resilience. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biometeorology and Bioclimatology)
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15 pages, 20935 KiB  
Article
Street Tree Redevelopment in Rome’s Historical Landscapes: From Strategic Vision to Streetscape Design
by Matteo Clemente
Land 2025, 14(2), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14020233 - 23 Jan 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1155
Abstract
Street trees play a fundamental role in shaping pedestrian sidewalks, squares, and small rest areas, enriching the public space, together with paving, street furniture, and lighting. However, the project of street tree lines along urban sidewalks remains an underestimated issue in urban design [...] Read more.
Street trees play a fundamental role in shaping pedestrian sidewalks, squares, and small rest areas, enriching the public space, together with paving, street furniture, and lighting. However, the project of street tree lines along urban sidewalks remains an underestimated issue in urban design and strategic planning, even if it could be a pivotal opportunity for a widespread redevelopment of living streets and public spaces. The present study focuses on landscape aspects of the ‘street tree project’ intrinsically linked with the identity, perception, and morphological issues of urban spaces, from a strategic vision of the city to the human scale of the urban landscape. In this perspective, we discussed the case of Rome, Italy, where the historical heritage has had an extraordinary value, and where street trees are considered a notable contribution to the landscape identity of the whole city. The administrative council of the Municipality of Rome has initiated a comprehensive census of street trees and is currently developing a Street Tree Masterplan. This plan will serve as a guiding framework, outlining strategies for the conservation of arboreal heritage and the revitalization of the urban tree population along city streets. Based on the empirical evidence stemming from this case study, the discussion highlights the relevance of poorly debated issues, in both the academic and practitioner’s literature, mainly concerning the choice of urban trees’ species. Choosing the ‘right tree species in the right place’ has implications that are not only ecological and environmental, but also perceptive and architectural, being intimately associated with the urban scene and the identity of places. Full article
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12 pages, 4543 KiB  
Article
Mitigating the Energy Consumption and Carbon Emissions of a Residential Area in a Tropical City Using Digital Twin Technology: A Case Study of Bertam, Penang
by Nur Haziqah Mohamad Zaidi, Chin Haw Lim and Halim Razali
Buildings 2024, 14(3), 638; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14030638 - 29 Feb 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2209
Abstract
As of 2022, roughly 79.8% of Malaysia’s population resides in urban areas, increasing the population density of its cities. The hot and humid climate in Malaysia necessitates the constant use of air conditioning, especially in cities, resulting in high residential electric consumption and [...] Read more.
As of 2022, roughly 79.8% of Malaysia’s population resides in urban areas, increasing the population density of its cities. The hot and humid climate in Malaysia necessitates the constant use of air conditioning, especially in cities, resulting in high residential electric consumption and carbon emissions. The residential sector significantly contributes to global climate change, accounting for 27% of global energy consumption and 17% of carbon emissions. To address this concern, the local framework of the National Low Carbon Cities Masterplan (NLCCM) is advocating for a minimum 33% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 in urban settings, aligning with the commitments made at the 15th Conference of Parties (COP 15). The aim of this study was to determine the energy consumption and carbon emission of residential areas in a tropical city, as well as explore potential energy and carbon savings. Utilizing the Intelligent Communities Lifecycle–Intelligent Community Design (iCL-iCD) energy simulation software, a digital twin of Bertam City, Penang, was developed. This digital model included 65.4% residential housing, which, in the specific scenario under study, accounted for 36% of the city’s electrical energy consumption for cooling purposes only. An early simulation of the residential areas of the city estimated the baseline energy consumption and carbon emissions to be 607 GWh and 314,736 tCO2e, respectively. Several energy-efficient measures were applied to the residential area of Bertam City, revealing a potential saving of 37.3% in both energy and carbon emissions. Full article
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18 pages, 7673 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Access to Urban Hill Parks: The Montjuïc Trail Masterplan and the 360° Route Design in Barcelona
by Josep Mercadé-Aloy and Marina Cervera-Alonso-de-Medina
Land 2024, 13(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13010002 - 19 Dec 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3196
Abstract
The 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) include ensuring universal and safe access to green spaces. Some cities feature extensive green areas on hills or elevated terrains integrated into the urban landscape. In such cases where the benefits for users are highly [...] Read more.
The 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) include ensuring universal and safe access to green spaces. Some cities feature extensive green areas on hills or elevated terrains integrated into the urban landscape. In such cases where the benefits for users are highly pronounced (e.g., views, isolation, etc.), it is challenging and particularly complex to design strategies to ensure accessible and spatial routes due to multiple slopes and a challenging topography. In Barcelona, the iconic Montjuïc mountain has been the focal point of a trail masterplan aimed at rethinking its various access points and internal network of routes. Furthermore, the city has committed to implementing an initial project from this plan, the so-called 360° route. This study presents an in-depth analysis of the Montjuïc mountain case, encompassing both the plan and the 360° project in hilly urban parks. The analysis reveals the values and transferability of the set of strategies proposed in the plan, such as activating inherent location characteristics by connecting the surrounding urban fabric with elements of recreational potential within the underlying traces of heritage value. Additionally, a quantitative assessment of the impact of the proposed accesses on the population is presented. The study highlights the improvements in quality of life for the diverse users of this type of green infrastructure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Landscape Architecture and Design in Urban and Peri-Urban Environment)
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18 pages, 612 KiB  
Article
Developing Place Attachment in Master-Planned Residential Estates in Sydney: The Influence of Neighbourhood Parks
by Chunyan Yang, Song Shi and Goran Runeson
Buildings 2023, 13(12), 3080; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13123080 - 11 Dec 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1970
Abstract
Master-Planned Residential Estate (MPRE) is an integrated housing development form in Australia. MPREs are aimed to build a sense of place attachment and community via the provision of environmental and social infrastructure. Neighbourhood parks are regarded as a significant built environmental factor linked [...] Read more.
Master-Planned Residential Estate (MPRE) is an integrated housing development form in Australia. MPREs are aimed to build a sense of place attachment and community via the provision of environmental and social infrastructure. Neighbourhood parks are regarded as a significant built environmental factor linked to residents’ place attachment and well-being in the literature. Understanding place attachment is crucial for promoting residents’ well-being in neighbourhoods and enhancing the attractiveness of real estates in the housing market. However, we know little about how place attachment is facilitated for park users in neighbourhoods. The psychological process of place attachment in MPREs is unclear in the literature, with a particular lack of qualitative studies in this area. This study explored the psychological process of place attachment and its associations with neighbourhood parks in MPREs in Sydney via a qualitative case study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 residents residing in two selected MPREs in Sydney during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022. Interviews found three themes and several subthemes regarding the process of place attachment for park users in MPREs: affect (emotional bonds), behaviour (place-related fulfilment of needs, place-related social bonds, and community participation), and cognition (membership of the community, place-related memory, and cultural significance). This study contributes to understanding place attachment and human-environment relations in sustainable neighbourhoods by adding new items into place attachment models from the perspective of MPREs in Sydney. It provides valuable qualitative evidence gathered during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings furnish empirical insights for policymakers, developers, and urban planners involved in sustainable neighbourhoods’ development and housing management in Sydney and global regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Study on Real Estate and Housing Management)
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24 pages, 4655 KiB  
Article
A Collaborative Approach for Triggering Environmental Awareness: The 3Rs for Sustainable Use of Natural Resources in Ulaanbaatar (3R4UB)
by Gabriella Esposito De Vita, Cristina Visconti, Gantuya Ganbat and Marina Rigillo
Sustainability 2023, 15(18), 13846; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151813846 - 18 Sep 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2891
Abstract
Current environmental challenges invite us to deeply revise policies, governance models, and resource management toolkits towards a circular approach, in order to meet Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requirements. In this framework, circular waste management is one of the pillars of responsible and foresighted [...] Read more.
Current environmental challenges invite us to deeply revise policies, governance models, and resource management toolkits towards a circular approach, in order to meet Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requirements. In this framework, circular waste management is one of the pillars of responsible and foresighted planning for territorial sustainability. The “3Rs for a sustainable use of natural resources in Ulaanbaatar” (3R4UB) project aims at transferring a sustainable approach to urban solid waste management, especially focusing on providing effective opportunities for developing circular supply chains locally. In this framework, an integrated approach has been developed in order to adapt the communication/exploitation plan of sustainable waste management within a SWITCH-Asia Country (EU Program) by combining engagement tools and participatory processes for the collaborative design of a waste management masterplan. This paper explores the spatialization of resources/waste flows in the formal and informal settlements, while also considering cultural traditions, social structures, and community habits, in terms of a purposely designed combination of spatial planning, governance modeling, and capacity building activities. Starting from a preliminary communication plan, this paper sets the frame for discussing the role of community engagement tools and protocols in producing an effective and generalizable collaborative waste management masterplan. Full article
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22 pages, 2650 KiB  
Article
The Role of the Urban Design Review Panel in a Master-Planned Community Development: A Case Study of Hobsonville Point, New Zealand
by I-Ting Chuang and Lee Beattie
Land 2023, 12(8), 1572; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12081572 - 8 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2747
Abstract
Design guidelines and design review panel (DRPs) are crucial components in ensuring consistent and high-quality design within masterplan sites. This study focuses on New Zealand, examining the challenges faced by industry partners in adapting to master-planned design guidelines. The case study centres on [...] Read more.
Design guidelines and design review panel (DRPs) are crucial components in ensuring consistent and high-quality design within masterplan sites. This study focuses on New Zealand, examining the challenges faced by industry partners in adapting to master-planned design guidelines. The case study centres on Hobsonville Point, the largest government-led masterplan community in New Zealand, which promotes sustainable and higher-density living—an uncommon concept in the country. We conducted interviews with 18 key stakeholders involved in the development of Hobsonville Point. The results show that the DRP provides flexible judgments and insightful information that better accommodate individual development characteristics than the strict numerical standards specified in design guidelines. This study underscores the importance of the DRP in producing good design outcomes, especially when they are involved at the very beginning of the design process. Additionally, we took note of stakeholder concerns about DRP members’ expertise and the possible effects of high turnover rates on the design process. To strive for continual improvement, future empirical studies on the DRP process are encouraged to enhance proficiency and dependability. Design guidance should be prioritised to ensure that climate-related design is implemented to promote sustainable urban development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Land Use, Impact Assessment and Sustainability)
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22 pages, 26804 KiB  
Article
De-Sealing Reverses Habitat Decay More Than Increasing Groundcover Vegetation
by Virginia Thompson Couch, Stefano Salata, Nicel Saygin, Anne Frary and Bertan Arslan
Climate 2023, 11(6), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11060116 - 25 May 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2653
Abstract
Modeling ecosystem services is a growing trend in scientific research, and Nature-based Solutions (NbSs) are increasingly used by land-use planners and environmental designers to achieve improved adaptation to climate change and mitigation of the negative effects of climate change. Predictions of ecological benefits [...] Read more.
Modeling ecosystem services is a growing trend in scientific research, and Nature-based Solutions (NbSs) are increasingly used by land-use planners and environmental designers to achieve improved adaptation to climate change and mitigation of the negative effects of climate change. Predictions of ecological benefits of NbSs are needed early in design to support decision making. In this study, we used ecological analysis to predict the benefits of two NbSs applied to a university masterplan and adjusted our preliminary design strategy according to the first modeling results. Our Area of Interest was the IZTECH campus, which is located in a rural area of the eastern Mediterranean region (Izmir/Turkey). A primary design goal was to improve habitat quality by revitalizing soil. Customized analysis of the Baseline Condition and two NbSs scenarios was achieved by using local values obtained from a high-resolution photogrammetric scan of the catchment to produce flow accumulation and habitat quality indexes. Results indicate that anthropogenic features are the primary cause of habitat decay and that decreasing imperviousness reduces habitat decay significantly more than adding vegetation. This study creates a method of supporting sustainability goals by quickly testing alternative NbSs. The main innovation is demonstrating that early approximation of the ecological benefits of NbSs can inform preliminary design strategy. The proposed model may be calibrated to address specific environmental challenges of a given location and test other forms of NbSs. Full article
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24 pages, 5303 KiB  
Article
Stormwater Sewerage Masterplan for Flood Control Applied to a University Campus
by Bethy Merchán-Sanmartín, Paúl Carrión-Mero, Sebastián Suárez-Zamora, Maribel Aguilar-Aguilar, Omar Cruz-Cabrera, Katherine Hidalgo-Calva and Fernando Morante-Carballo
Smart Cities 2023, 6(3), 1279-1302; https://doi.org/10.3390/smartcities6030062 - 9 May 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3416
Abstract
Floods generated by rain cause significant economic and human losses. The campus of the Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL) has a drainage system that conducts stormwater to two discharge points outside the campus. The system works effectively at the macro-drainage level. However, [...] Read more.
Floods generated by rain cause significant economic and human losses. The campus of the Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL) has a drainage system that conducts stormwater to two discharge points outside the campus. The system works effectively at the macro-drainage level. However, a very crowded area is deficient at the micro-drainage level, which has registered flooding and the proliferation of vectors that affect people’s health. This work aimed to design a masterplan for stormwater sewerage by analyzing the existing situation and applying technical criteria that allow the establishment of solutions and strategies to control floods at the university campus. The methodology consisted of: (i) data collection and processing for the stormwater drainage system diagnosis; (ii) a design proposal for micro-drainage and (iii) a SWOT analysis to propose improvement strategies in water management. The resulting flows for return periods of 5 years, 10 years, and 25 years are 9.67 m3/s, 11.85 m3/s, and 15.85 m3/s, respectively. In the latter, as the most critical area (presence of flooding), the implementation of a trapezoidal channel 80.20 m long, with a capacity of 1.00 m3/s, for a return period of 25 years was proposed. The stormwater masterplan will contribute to the execution of activities within the campus and prevent accidents and the proliferation of diseases, constituting a water-management model that can be replicated locally, regionally, and internationally. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and the City of the Future)
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21 pages, 3277 KiB  
Article
Water–Energy–Food Security Nexus—Estimating Future Water Demand Scenarios Based on Nexus Thinking: The Watershed as a Territory
by Icaro Yuri Pereira Dias, Lira Luz Benites Lazaro and Virginia Grace Barros
Sustainability 2023, 15(9), 7050; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15097050 - 23 Apr 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3208
Abstract
Water, energy, and food security are essential for maintenance and human survival. This research applied an approach for the water–energy–food system to a watershed in the Atlantic Rainforest in Southern Brazil. It is based on a WEAP system that was developed and evaluated [...] Read more.
Water, energy, and food security are essential for maintenance and human survival. This research applied an approach for the water–energy–food system to a watershed in the Atlantic Rainforest in Southern Brazil. It is based on a WEAP system that was developed and evaluated future water demand scenarios for the 2020–2050 timespan. The Sustainability Index (SI) was used to assess the scenarios to propose an alternative to compare the current development trend. The results indicated that by 2050, the necessary flow for different water uses would be 78.75% greater than in 2020 while maintaining the present scenario (C_REF). Substituting part of the hydroelectric energy by photovoltaic solar energy (C_EAL), implementing watershed action masterplans as a water resource instrument (C_GES), and integrating these scenarios (C_INT) will reduce the current demand ranging from 8.96% to 24.59%. The average flow would decrease by 28.44% and 29.07%, respectively, by evaluating water availability in climatic change scenarios (C_MCL) for the RCP 4.5 and 8.5 scenarios. Compared with the reference scenario C_REF, C_INT presented an improved SI (0.1231), while C_MCL 8.5 presented the worse (−0.0047). Therefore, resources must be generated holistically so that one segment does not negatively impact the others. The findings highlight the pressing need for Santa Catarina State to implement effective management strategies targeting specific sectors, particularly the industrial and human consumption supply sectors. It is imperative to propose adaptation plans and implement actions that foster the reduction in water demands while also providing subsidies and guidance to the industrial sector on responsible water usage to prevent any negative impact on their productivity in the future. Comprehensive plans and policies should be formulated to ensure integration and coherence among various sectors involved in water resource management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sustainable Water Management and Environmental Chemistry)
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