Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Buildings buildings	3.1	3.4	2011	15.3 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Forests forests	2.4	4.4	2010	16.2 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Land land	3.2	4.9	2012	16.9 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Remote Sensing remotesensing	4.2	8.3	2009	23.9 Days	CHF 2700	Submit
Behavioral Sciences behavsci	2.5	2.6	2011	28.7 Days	CHF 2200	Submit
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	6.8	2009	19.7 Days	CHF 2400	Submit

20 pages, 6384 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial and Chronological Assessment of Variations in Carbon Stocks in Land-Based Ecosystems in Shandong Province and Prospective Predictions (1990 to 2040)

by Xiaolong Xu, Kun Li, Chuanrong Li, Fang Han, Junxin Zhao and Youheng Li

Sustainability 2025, 17(6), 2424; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17062424 - 10 Mar 2025

Viewed by 149

Abstract

Analyses of regional carbon stock dynamics, particularly of spatial and temporal dynamics and their relationship with land use transitions, play a key role in the management of terrestrial ecosystem functions and the optimization of land resource allocation. This study focuses on Shandong Province, [...] Read more.

Analyses of regional carbon stock dynamics, particularly of spatial and temporal dynamics and their relationship with land use transitions, play a key role in the management of terrestrial ecosystem functions and the optimization of land resource allocation. This study focuses on Shandong Province, an important ecological security barrier along the eastern coast of China, to explore carbon stock changes and how land use modifications contributed to the chrono-spatial distribution of carbon stocks from 1990 to 2020, with additional forecasts up to 2040. Based on Natural Variation Conditions, Ecological Variation Conditions, and the City’s Variation Conditions, the results indicate a downward trend in carbon stocks across Shandong Province, from 2661.87 × 10⁶ t in 1990 to 2380.02 × 10⁶ t in 2020. Carbon stocks exhibit a highly uneven spatial distribution, with concentrations being notably higher in the central and eastern regions. Cities are classified based on their carbon stock level: high carbon stock cities (Linyi, Weifang, Yantai), large carbon stock cities (Jinan, Jining, Qingdao, Dezhou, Binzhou, Liaocheng, Taian, Zibo, Dongying), and cities with general carbon stock levels (Weihai, Rizhao, Zaozhuang). The major driver of carbon stock decline is the conversion of ecological lands into urban areas, with cultivated lands and forests being the primary carbon storage contributors. Projections suggest that under the City’s Variation Conditions, carbon stocks will decrease from 2380.02 × 10⁶ t in 2020 to 1654.16 × 10⁶ t by 2040, while Carbon stocks will rise from 2380.02 × 10⁶ t to 2430.56 × 10⁶ t under the Ecological Variation Conditions. A significant disparity in carbon sink potential is found across cities, which are divided into high carbon sink potential cities (Yantai, Dezhou, Weifang, Qingdao, Jinan), large carbon sink potential cities (Binzhou, Weihai, Zibo, Liaocheng, Dongying, Linyi, Taian, Rizhao, Zaozhuang), and general potential cities (Jining, Heze). The insights gained from this study are essential for promoting the conservation of regional terrestrial ecosystems, directing land use policy development, and supporting sustainable development initiatives in Shandong Province. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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23 pages, 27754 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Multi-Dimensional Assessment of Pocket Park Landscapes: Insights from Scenic Beauty Estimation and Analytic Hierarchy Process in Dadukou District, Chongqing

by Xinyi Peng and Mohamad Reza Mohamed Afla

Sustainability 2025, 17(5), 2020; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17052020 - 26 Feb 2025

Viewed by 181

Abstract

Pocket parks are small green spaces that significantly enhance urban livability, particularly in densely populated cities. To leverage this advantage, Chongqing has committed to establishing 100 pocket parks by 2024. This study assesses the landscape quality of six pocket parks in Chongqing’s Dadukou [...] Read more.

Pocket parks are small green spaces that significantly enhance urban livability, particularly in densely populated cities. To leverage this advantage, Chongqing has committed to establishing 100 pocket parks by 2024. This study assesses the landscape quality of six pocket parks in Chongqing’s Dadukou District, employing Scenic Beauty Estimation (SBE) and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The results of the SBE method identify four main factors—spatial hierarchy, plant diversity, landscape harmony, and color richness—that show a strong correlation with scenic beauty (R = 0.947, R² = 0.897). AHP analysis reveals that landscape function is the dominant criterion, accounting for 66.86% of the total weight, with ecological function and service function contributing 21.44% and 8.82%, respectively. Notably, plant color richness emerges as the most significant factor, with a comprehensive weight of 0.1509, emphasizing its critical role in enhancing visual appeal. Based on these findings, this study recommends increasing plant diversity, optimizing color design to improve visual appeal, and implementing sustainable, low-maintenance strategies. This research integrates both quantitative and qualitative approaches, offering strategies to refine pocket park designs and establish a framework to enhance green spaces in densely populated urban areas, not only in China but potentially globally, promoting environmental sustainability and user satisfaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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19 pages, 13295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Historic Districts: Vitality Analysis and Optimization Based on Space Syntax

by Jian-Ming Fu, Yi-Fan Tang, Yu-Kai Zeng, Li-Yi Feng and Zhi-Gang Wu

Buildings 2025, 15(5), 657; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15050657 - 20 Feb 2025

Viewed by 251

Abstract

As modern society increasingly emphasizes quality of life, historic districts face the challenge of balancing the preservation of traditional culture with the integration of urban development. Many historic districts today struggle with low vitality and limited visitor engagement. By adopting sustainable development strategies, [...] Read more.

As modern society increasingly emphasizes quality of life, historic districts face the challenge of balancing the preservation of traditional culture with the integration of urban development. Many historic districts today struggle with low vitality and limited visitor engagement. By adopting sustainable development strategies, such as promoting tourism, these districts have the potential to enhance economic vitality. This study explores the spatial morphological characteristics of the ShuiXiLin Historic District (SHD) in Fuzhou, using spatial syntax theory and tools within the framework of sustainable urban renewal. The study proposes three strategies for the district: (1) enhancing connectivity positively influences the public experience within the SHD; (2) strengthening the district’s primary axis amplifies its influence across the area; (3) implementing protective reuse of historical buildings and improving service facilities can significantly enhance the district’s vitality. Through theoretical analysis and a review of existing research, this study proposes revitalization strategies aimed at formulating sustainable development plans for the district. These recommendations are intended to offer valuable insights for urban renewal projects and provide theoretical support for planning decisions related to the vitality of historic districts. This research illustrates the effective use of spatial syntax in historic districts, offering a robust method to evaluate and enhance the spatial structure and vitality of heritage areas. It supports sustainable development by integrating preservation with modern needs, ensuring a balance between conservation and urban growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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20 pages, 3720 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Availability, Accessibility, or Visibility? A Study of the Influencing Factors of Greenspace Exposure Behavior in Fuzhou Urban Parks

by Na Liu, Mengbo Wu, Jingjing Wang, Jingyi Wei, Xiong Yao and Zhipeng Zhu

Forests 2025, 16(2), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16020341 - 14 Feb 2025

Viewed by 399

Abstract

Rapid urbanization has led to increasingly serious problems, such as the heat island effect and environmental pollution, which seriously endanger people’s health. Greenspace exposure behavior, that is, the way and characteristics of people’s contact with greenspace (including frequency and duration of stay), is [...] Read more.

Rapid urbanization has led to increasingly serious problems, such as the heat island effect and environmental pollution, which seriously endanger people’s health. Greenspace exposure behavior, that is, the way and characteristics of people’s contact with greenspace (including frequency and duration of stay), is the key to exerting the health benefits of greenspace. There is little research on the factors influencing greenspace exposure behavior, which cannot reveal the mechanism of maintaining people’s physical and mental health by promoting greenspace exposure behavior. Therefore, using typical urban parks in Fuzhou as a case study, indicators of greenspace availability, accessibility, and visibility were identified from objective park characteristics and subjective crowd evaluation. The factors influencing greenspace exposure behavior were analyzed using bivariate correlation tests and multivariate linear regression analysis. The results indicated that, among objective park characteristics, the per capita green park area negatively impacted greenspace exposure behavior, while the green view index positively influenced it (p < 0.05). Regarding subjective crowd evaluation, subjective indicators positively impacted greenspace exposure behavior except for the condition of activity areas. In addition, subjective factors, especially subjective visibility indicators, are more predictive of greenspace exposure behavior than objective factors. The theoretical contribution of this study lies in further refining the research framework for quantifying and evaluating park greenspace exposure, and enriching the theoretical connotation of research on park greenspace exposure behavior. The research results suggested park greening strategies for the relevant departments, enhanced the greenspace exposure behavior, and improved people’s physical and mental health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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25 pages, 6808 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multidimensional Visual Preferences and Sustainable Management of Heritage Canal Waterfront Landscape Based on Panoramic Image Interpretation

by Xin Jiang, Xin Li, Mingrui Wang, Xi Zhang, Wenhai Zhang, Yongjun Li, Xin Cong and Qinghai Zhang

Land 2025, 14(2), 220; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14020220 - 22 Jan 2025

Viewed by 543

Abstract

As an important type of linear cultural heritage and a waterfront landscape that integrates both artificial and natural elements, heritage canals provide the public with a multidimensional perceptual experience encompassing aesthetics, culture, and nature. There remains a lack of refined, micro-level studies on [...] Read more.

As an important type of linear cultural heritage and a waterfront landscape that integrates both artificial and natural elements, heritage canals provide the public with a multidimensional perceptual experience encompassing aesthetics, culture, and nature. There remains a lack of refined, micro-level studies on heritage canal landscapes from a multidimensional perspective of visual preference. This study focuses on a typical segment of the Grand Canal in China, specifically the ancient canal section in Yangzhou. We employed SegFormer image semantic segmentation techniques to interpret features from 150 panoramic images, quantitatively identifying the waterfront environmental characteristics of the heritage canal. Four perceptual dimensions were constructed: aesthetic preference, cultural preference, natural preference, and hydrophilic preference. Through a questionnaire survey and various statistical analyses, we revealed the relationships between visual preferences for the waterfront landscape of heritage canals and environmental characteristics. The main findings of the study include the following: (1) Aesthetic preference is positively correlated with cultural, natural, and hydrophilic preferences, while natural preference shows a negative correlation with cultural and hydrophilic preferences. (2) Aesthetic preference is influenced by a combination of blue-green natural elements and artificial factors. Natural preference is primarily affected by increased vegetation visibility, cultural preference is associated with a higher proportion of cultural facilities and high-quality pavements, and hydrophilic preference is linked to larger water surface areas, fewer barriers, and better water quality. (3) There are spatial differences in canal waterfront landscape preferences across different urban areas, with the old city exhibiting higher aesthetic, cultural, and hydrophilic preferences than the new city and suburban areas. Finally, this study proposes strategies for optimising and enhancing the quality of waterfront landscapes of heritage canals, aiming to provide sustainable practical guidance for the future planning and management of these heritage sites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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14 pages, 589 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Social Trust Affects Young Adults’ Mental Health: Chain Mediation Effects of Social Sustainability in Communities

by Zhiyi Li, Yongzhu Jin and Mengyao Yang

Sustainability 2025, 17(3), 844; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17030844 - 21 Jan 2025

Viewed by 725

Abstract

The community is the primary living environment of youth groups and serves as a bridge between the individual and society. However, few studies have examined how the social environment affects mental health by influencing the social sustainability of the community. This study examines [...] Read more.

The community is the primary living environment of youth groups and serves as a bridge between the individual and society. However, few studies have examined how the social environment affects mental health by influencing the social sustainability of the community. This study examines the chain mediating effects of neighbor interactions, reciprocity, and perceived work stress (i.e., social sustainability of communities) in the association of social trust (i.e., social environment) and mental health among Chinese young adults. The data came from the cross-section data from the Chinese General Social Survey (2021). Multiple linear regression models revealed that both social trust and neighbor interactions were significantly and positively related to the mental health of young adults. The structural equation model revealed that social trust had a direct effect on increasing neighbor interactions, which in turn indirectly influenced neighbor reciprocity and perceived work stress, and gradually resulted in the reduction of depressed mood. The findings indicate that neighbor interactions could be advocated and strengthened in communities. Additionally, policymakers should create a more trusting and inclusive social environment to improve the mental health of young adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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28 pages, 52897 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How to Coordinate Urban Ecological Networks and Street Green Space Construction? Insights from a Multi-Scale Perspective

by Shujun Hou, Ying Yu, Taeyeol Jung and Xin Han

Land 2025, 14(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14010026 - 26 Dec 2024

Viewed by 842

Abstract

Rapid socio-economic development and imbalanced ecosystem conservation have heightened the risk of species extinction, reduced urban climate adaptability, and threatened human health and well-being. Constructing ecological green space networks is an effective strategy for maintaining urban ecological security. However, most studies have primarily [...] Read more.

Rapid socio-economic development and imbalanced ecosystem conservation have heightened the risk of species extinction, reduced urban climate adaptability, and threatened human health and well-being. Constructing ecological green space networks is an effective strategy for maintaining urban ecological security. However, most studies have primarily addressed biodiversity needs, with limited focus on coordinating street spaces in human settlement planning. This study examines the area within Chengdu’s Third Ring Road, employing the following methodologies: (1) constructing the regional ecological network using Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis (MSPA), the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs (InVEST) model, and circuit theory; (2) analyzing the street green view index (GVI) through machine learning semantic segmentation techniques; and (3) identifying key areas for the coordinated development of urban ecological networks and street green spaces using bivariate spatial correlation analysis. The results showed that (1) Chengdu’s Third Ring Road exhibits high ecological landscape fragmentation, with 41 key ecological sources and 94 corridors identified. Ecological pinch points were located near urban rivers and surrounding woodlands, while ecological barrier points were concentrated in areas with dense buildings and complex transportation networks. (2) Higher street GVI values were observed around university campuses, urban parks, and river-adjacent streets, while lower GVI values were found near commercial areas and transportation hubs. (3) To coordinate the construction of ecological networks and street green spaces, the central area of the First Ring Road and the northwestern region of the Second and Third Ring Roads were identified as priority restoration areas, while the northern, western, and southeastern areas of the Second and Third Ring Roads were designated as priority protection areas. This study adopts a multi-scale spatial perspective to identify priority areas for protection and restoration, aiming to coordinate the construction of urban ecological networks and street green spaces and provide new insights for advancing ecological civilization in high-density urban areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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25 pages, 8066 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding the Difference Between Spatial Accessibility and Perceived Accessibility of Public Service Facilities in Coastal Towns and Villages

by Jia-Bing Wang, Li-Yi Feng, Ling Guo, Bin-Yan Liu and Xin-Chen Hong

Sustainability 2024, 16(24), 10908; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162410908 - 12 Dec 2024

Viewed by 859

Abstract

The discrepancy between the physical accessibility and perceived accessibility of public service facilities in coastal towns and villages of Fujian, China, was investigated in this study. Through a spatial distribution analysis of education and medical service facilities in Liushui Town and Xingchen Town, [...] Read more.

The discrepancy between the physical accessibility and perceived accessibility of public service facilities in coastal towns and villages of Fujian, China, was investigated in this study. Through a spatial distribution analysis of education and medical service facilities in Liushui Town and Xingchen Town, the equity and coverage levels of various facilities were evaluated based on the residents’ physical travel costs and perceptions. The results show pronounced spatial heterogeneity between the physical and perceived accessibility across different regions. Our findings suggest that, while certain areas boast a lot of physical access to facilities, the residents’ perceived access is significantly influenced by factors such as the terrain, transportation conditions, and the types of available travel tools. The findings of this study provide a scientific basis for optimizing the allocation of rural public service facilities, aiming to bridge the foundational service gap between urban and rural areas and promote the equitable development of rural living environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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27 pages, 19052 KiB

Open AccessReview

Energy Efficiency in Biophilic Architecture: A Systematic Literature Review and Visual Analysis Using CiteSpace and VOSviewer

by Xin Ding, Yanqiu Cui, Zhengshu Chen and Hangyue Zhang

Buildings 2024, 14(12), 3800; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14123800 - 27 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1334

Abstract

The advent and application of biophilic architecture bring numerous environmental, economic, and energy-efficiency benefits, playing a crucial role in advancing low-carbon, energy-saving, healthy, comfortable, and sustainable development within the construction industry. Thanks to its many advantages—such as aesthetic enhancement, improved microclimates, and negative [...] Read more.

The advent and application of biophilic architecture bring numerous environmental, economic, and energy-efficiency benefits, playing a crucial role in advancing low-carbon, energy-saving, healthy, comfortable, and sustainable development within the construction industry. Thanks to its many advantages—such as aesthetic enhancement, improved microclimates, and negative carbon potential—biophilic architecture has been widely adopted in building design, particularly as a response to the escalating environmental crisis. Integrating plants with various architectural forms can optimize building performance, especially by reducing operational energy consumption. This study uses knowledge mapping tools like CiteSpace 6.1.R3 and VOSviewer 1.6.19 to analyze 2309 research papers from the Web of Science (WoS) published over the past decade on the topic of “energy efficiency in biophilic architecture”. It conducts visual analyses of publication trends, collaborative networks, and key themes. The research categorizes plant–architecture integration methods, focusing on three primary areas: green roofs, vertical green systems, and green photovoltaic systems. Additionally, it reviews the ways in which biophilic architecture contributes to energy savings, the research methodologies employed, energy-saving rates, and the factors influencing these outcomes. Finally, a SWOT framework is constructed to assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and potential threats of biophilic architecture, as well as its future development prospects. The findings indicate that integrating plants with building roofs is an effective energy-saving strategy, achieving energy savings of up to 70%. Furthermore, combining biophilic elements with photovoltaic systems can enhance the efficiency of solar energy generation. This study offers valuable insights for architects and researchers in designing more energy-efficient and sustainable buildings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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25 pages, 8408 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Urban Tree Species and Morphological Characteristics on the Thermal Environment: A Case Study in Fuzhou, China

by Tao Luo, Jia Jia, Yao Qiu and Ying Zhang

Forests 2024, 15(12), 2075; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15122075 - 25 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1205

Abstract

Trees and their morphology can mitigate the urban heat island (UHI) effect, but the impacts of tree species and their two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) morphological characteristics on the thermal environment of residential spaces at the building scale have not been effectively evaluated. [...] Read more.

Trees and their morphology can mitigate the urban heat island (UHI) effect, but the impacts of tree species and their two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) morphological characteristics on the thermal environment of residential spaces at the building scale have not been effectively evaluated. This research extracted the data of trees in the spatial range of a 50 m radius of the sampling sites located in a subtropical humid city’s residential area based on unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery and field measurements. It included Ficus microcarpa L. f., Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J. Presl, and Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br. as three typical evergreen tree species and six quantitative indicators of trees, with the number of trees (N) serving as fundamental indicator and mean canopy width (MCW), mean canopy height (MCH), mean tree height (MTH), canopy biomass (CV), and mean canopy biomass (MCV) as morphological characteristic indicators. We analyzed the impact of the six indicators above on two thermal environment parameters: Air temperature (AT) and relative humidity (RH), by correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis. Results showed that: (1) F. microcarpa, as a dominant local species, provided more than 65% of the tree canopy volume within the study area (50 m radius buffer zones), and its contribution to cooling and humidification effects was superior to those of C. camphora and A. scholaris. (2) The MTH and CV of F. microcarpa are the key factors influencing daytime AT and RH, respectively, with temporal fluctuation in impact intensity during the spring (May) daytime. (3) The MTH and N of F. microcarpa show the best cooling effect (adjusted R² = 0.731, p < 0.05) during midday (13:00–14:00 p.m.), while its CV and MTH have the best humidification effect (adjusted R² = 0.748, p < 0.05) during the morning (9:00–10:00 a.m.) among three typical tree species. The 2D and 3D morphological characteristic indicators effectively describe the impact and variation of tree species on the spring microclimate within small-scale residential spaces. This work provides new insights into the thermal benefits brought by the spatial growth features of trees at the building scale and offers reference for urban residential areas in the planning and management related to tree species selection, canopy maintenance, and the improvement of thermal comfort for inhabitants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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27 pages, 3910 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Application of Neurostructural Principles to the Design of Public Spaces on University Campuses

by Qihang Zhou and Xingxing Fang

Land 2024, 13(12), 1978; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13121978 - 21 Nov 2024

Viewed by 902

Abstract

In this study, we examined the application of neurostructural principles to the design of public spaces on university campuses to optimize students’ learning efficiency, social interactions, and psychological well-being. Using Hainan University in China as a case study, a descriptive analysis was used [...] Read more.

In this study, we examined the application of neurostructural principles to the design of public spaces on university campuses to optimize students’ learning efficiency, social interactions, and psychological well-being. Using Hainan University in China as a case study, a descriptive analysis was used to evaluate the case study design of the data. Data on students’ preferences for and satisfaction with public learning spaces (libraries, student centers, and open learning areas) were also collected through a questionnaire. The questionnaire was based on the four stages of the AIDA (Attention, Interest, Desire, and Action) model and covered basic information about the participants and their first impressions of the learning spaces, design element preferences, emotional and cognitive influences, and willingness to participate in improving the design of campus spaces. Data were analyzed using quantitative methods, including frequency analysis and score aggregation, to assess the students’ satisfaction with the existing design elements of the learning space and their suggestions for potential improvements. A random sample of students enrolled at Hainan University was used to ensure that the data were representative. The results of the study indicate that the rational allocation of natural light, the optimization of the acoustic environment, the adoption of soothing color schemes, and flexible spatial layouts are effective at relieving students’ psychological stress, enhancing their academic performance, and facilitating social interactions. Some of the existing designs are already in line with neurostructural principles, but there is still room for improvement, especially in terms of color schemes and spatial configurations. Students have positive attitudes towards participating in campus space improvement, with especially high interest in light optimization, spatial layout, and the use of natural materials. This study verifies the effectiveness of using neural structure principles in campus public spaces by establishing an empirical model, proves its positive effect on the quality of the campus environment and students’ well-being, and provides empirical evidence and theoretical support for future campus design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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11 pages, 1862 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association Between Neighborhood Built Environment and Mental Health: Differences Between Older Adults With and Without Restricted Mobility

by Xinyu Kong, Haoying Han, Fangting Chi, Mengyao Zhan and Xianfan Shu

Sustainability 2024, 16(21), 9226; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16219226 - 24 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1110

Abstract

The mobility restrictions faced by older adults pose significant challenges to understanding the association between the neighborhood built environment and their mental health. Neglecting the role of restricted mobility hinders a comprehensive analysis of how the built environment impacts older adults’ mental health. [...] Read more.

The mobility restrictions faced by older adults pose significant challenges to understanding the association between the neighborhood built environment and their mental health. Neglecting the role of restricted mobility hinders a comprehensive analysis of how the built environment impacts older adults’ mental health. Furthermore, the differences in this association between older adults with and without restricted mobility remain unclear. Based on data from 1405 adults aged 60 and older in Hangzhou, China, this study explored the association between the neighborhood built environment and the mental health of older adults using multivariable linear regression, with multivariable logistic regression being employed for the sensitivity analysis. The results indicated that access to public canteens and outdoor fitness spaces were significantly positively associated with the mental health of older adults. Notably, the protective effect of outdoor fitness spaces was significant for older adults with restricted mobility, while the supportive effect of public canteens was significant for those without restricted mobility. This study demonstrated an association between the neighborhood built environment and mental health among older adults, highlighting differences in this effect between those with and without restricted mobility. These insights underscore the necessity of designing sustainable and inclusive neighborhoods that cater to the varied needs of older adults, ultimately fostering environments that promote healthy and active aging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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20 pages, 15601 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Streetscape Images, Machine Learning, and Space Syntax to Enhance Walkability: A Case Study of Seongbuk District, Seoul

by Zhongshan Huang, Bin Wang, Shixian Luo, Manqi Wang, Jingjing Miao and Qiyue Jia

Land 2024, 13(10), 1591; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101591 - 30 Sep 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1471

Abstract

As urbanization rapidly progresses, streets have transitioned from mere transportation corridors to crucial spaces for daily life and social interaction. While past research has examined the impact of physical street characteristics on walkability, there is still a lack of large-scale quantitative assessments. This [...] Read more.

As urbanization rapidly progresses, streets have transitioned from mere transportation corridors to crucial spaces for daily life and social interaction. While past research has examined the impact of physical street characteristics on walkability, there is still a lack of large-scale quantitative assessments. This study systematically evaluates street walkability in Seongbuk District, Seoul, through the integration of streetscape images, machine learning, and space syntax. The physical characteristics of streets were extracted and analyzed in conjunction with space syntax to assess street accessibility, leading to a combined analysis of walkability and accessibility. The results reveal that the central and western regions of Seongbuk District outperform the eastern regions in overall street performance. Additionally, the study identifies four distinct street types based on their spatial distribution: high accessibility–high overall score, high accessibility–low overall score, low accessibility–high overall score, and low accessibility–low overall score. The findings not only provide a scientific basis for street development in Seongbuk District but also offer valuable insights for assessing and enhancing walkability in cities globally. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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17 pages, 7426 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Evaluation of Ecological Resilience in 45 Cities along the Yangtze River in China: A New Multidimensional Analysis Framework

by Chong Li, Yibao Wang, Wen Qing, Cuixi Li and Yujiang Yang

Land 2024, 13(10), 1588; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13101588 - 29 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1228

Abstract

The rapid pace of urbanization and global climate change necessitates a thorough assessment of urban ecological resilience to cultivate sustainable regional ecosystem development. Cities along the Yangtze River face an intensifying conflict between ecological preservation and socio-economic growth. Analyzing the ecological resilience of [...] Read more.

The rapid pace of urbanization and global climate change necessitates a thorough assessment of urban ecological resilience to cultivate sustainable regional ecosystem development. Cities along the Yangtze River face an intensifying conflict between ecological preservation and socio-economic growth. Analyzing the ecological resilience of these urban centers is essential for achieving equilibrium in regional urban ecosystems. This study proposes a “system process space” attribute analysis framework, taking into account urban development processes, ecosystem structure, and resilience evolution stages. Utilizing data from 45 Yangtze River cities, we establish a “Driver, Pressure, State, Impact, and Response” (DPSIR) evaluation index system to evaluate changes in ecological resilience levels and evolution trends from 2011 to 2022. Our findings indicate that: (1) The ecological resilience index of Yangtze River cities increased from 0.177 to 0.307 between 2011 and 2022, progressing through three phases: ecological resilience construction, rapid development, and stable development. (2) At the city level, ecological resilience along the Yangtze River exhibits uneven development characteristics. Upstream cities display a significant “stepped” pattern, midstream cities exhibit a significant “Matthew effect”, and downstream cities present a pyramid-shaped pattern. While regional differences in ecological resilience persist, overall polarization is gradually decreasing, intercity connections are strengthening, and there is a growing focus on coordinated regional development. (3) The spatial distribution of ecological resilience in Yangtze River cities demonstrates both continuity and evolution, generally forming a “core-edge” clustered pattern. Based on these findings, we recommend enhancing inter-city cooperation and connectivity, addressing imbalances in urban ecological resilience, and promoting high-quality ecological resilience development along the Yangtze River through tailored development strategies for each city. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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27 pages, 15562 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Combined Effects of the Thermal Environment and Air Quality at Recreation Places on the Physiology and Psychology of People in Urban Parks

by Yuxiang Lan, Jingjing Wang, Yaling Huang, Yuanyang Tang, Zhanhua Liu, Jiahui Zheng, Xiong Yao, Zhipeng Zhu, Jianwen Dong and Ye Chen

Forests 2024, 15(9), 1640; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15091640 - 17 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1583

Abstract

Urban forests, crucial to urban ecosystems, are increasingly threatened by the challenges of urbanization, such as deteriorating thermal environments and declining air quality. Despite their recognized benefits to city dwellers’ quality of life, a systematic understanding of the impact of these environmental factors [...] Read more.

Urban forests, crucial to urban ecosystems, are increasingly threatened by the challenges of urbanization, such as deteriorating thermal environments and declining air quality. Despite their recognized benefits to city dwellers’ quality of life, a systematic understanding of the impact of these environmental factors on public psychophysiological well-being in recreational sites is a notable gap in the literature. The objective of this research was to bridge this gap by examining the effects of the thermal environment and air quality in urban forests on the public’s perception, offering scientific evidence to inform environmental optimization and health management strategies for urban parks, essential for sustainable urban development and public health. Three urban parks in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, namely Fuzhou National Forest Park, Xihu Park, and Jinniushan Sports Park, were selected as research sites. Environmental monitoring and questionnaire surveys were conducted at 24 recreation places from October to December 2020, collecting temperature, humidity, and wind speed; the atmospheric composition includes PM2.5, PM10, negative oxygen ion, and psychophysiological data from the public. Multivariate statistical methods were employed to assess the environmental characteristics of different recreation places types and their impact on public health. The findings reveal that environmental factors explained 1.9% to 11.8% of the variation in physiological and psychological responses, mainly influenced by temperature, wind speed, and negative oxygen ions. Forests and waterfront recreation places significantly outperform canopy and open recreation places in promoting mental invigoration, stress relief, emotional tranquility, and attention restoration. Environmental monitoring results indicate that favorable meteorological conditions and good air quality are crucial for enhancing the service functions of recreation places. Notably, the positive correlation between a negative air ion concentration and psychological well-being provides a novel perspective on understanding the health benefits of urban forests. The thermal environment and air quality of urban recreation places exert a significant influence on the psychophysiological status of the public. Increasing green coverage, improving water body environments, and rationally planning recreation places layout are of great theoretical and practical significance for enhancing the environmental quality and service functions of urban forests. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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23 pages, 10654 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on the Relationship between Campus Environment and College Students’ Emotional Perception: A Case Study of Yuelu Mountain National University Science and Technology City

by Zhimou Peng, Ruiying Zhang, Yi Dong and Zhihao Liang

Buildings 2024, 14(9), 2849; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14092849 - 10 Sep 2024

Viewed by 2395

Abstract

The campus environment directly impacts college students’ psychological and emotional well-being, influencing their behavioral performance and the development of their personalities. Investigating the complex relationship between the campus spatial environment and students’ emotions is crucial for designing urban environments that support mental health. [...] Read more.

The campus environment directly impacts college students’ psychological and emotional well-being, influencing their behavioral performance and the development of their personalities. Investigating the complex relationship between the campus spatial environment and students’ emotions is crucial for designing urban environments that support mental health. Using Yuelu Mountain National University Science and Technology City as a case study, this research developed a framework to analyze campus environment characteristics and emotional perception. The study quantitatively assessed emotional perceptions, examined the specific contributions of different campus environment elements to individual emotions, and created an emotion prediction map to explore these relationships in depth. The results indicate that “campus greenery” and “diversity” negatively affect “disappointment” and “depression”, while “sky views” positively impact “happiness” and “sense of security”. Additionally, “diversity” positively affects “relaxation”, and “campus greenery” and “diversity” have negative effects on “disappointment” and “depression”, with “diversity” having a particularly strong positive effect on “relaxation”. The pronounced spatial clustering of emotional perceptions on campus further underscores the significant influence of the campus environment on individual emotional experiences. As the first study to explore the mechanisms underlying the emotional perceptions of Chinese college students in relation to the campus environment, this research overcomes the limitations of traditional environmental assessment indicators by identifying campus environmental elements and psychological factors that better align with the psychological needs of college students. This provides a scientific basis for optimizing campus environments based on the emotional perceptions of students, thereby supporting mental health promotion and guiding campus environment construction. Moreover, the research methodology is broadly applicable. The integration of campus environment image data and deep learning offers a significant tool for assessing campus space and environmental perception, thereby enhancing human-centered environmental assessment and prediction while more accurately reflecting architectural space perception. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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30 pages, 9180 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Street Elements on Pedestrian Stopping Behavior in Commercial Pedestrian Streets from the Perspective of Commercial Vitality

by Xuanming Mu, Liqiang Mu and Jun Zhang

Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7727; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177727 - 5 Sep 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2049

Abstract

As urban design increasingly emphasizes livable environments, research on pedestrians and walking environments has been revisited at the street level. Although existing studies have shown that street environments impact pedestrians, there remains a significant gap in our knowledge regarding which street elements affect [...] Read more.

As urban design increasingly emphasizes livable environments, research on pedestrians and walking environments has been revisited at the street level. Although existing studies have shown that street environments impact pedestrians, there remains a significant gap in our knowledge regarding which street elements affect pedestrian walking behavior, to what degree, and which walking characteristics are influenced. This study aims to validate the close relationship between street elements and pedestrian stopping behavior by measuring the influence of different street element environments on walking characteristics. Research methods include a literature review and field research, categorizing street elements into 32 types and pedestrian stopping behaviors into 10 characteristics. By collecting effective walking data from 1587 pedestrians and conducting data processing and regression analysis, we found that rational street design can effectively promote commercial activity and enhance street vitality. Based on the experimental conclusions, we propose urban design recommendations to further enhance the vitality of commercial pedestrian streets, including optimizing street landscape design, improving pedestrian facilities, and increasing leisure spaces. This research provides valuable references for further exploring how to enhance the vitality of commercial pedestrian streets, helping urban planners and designers better understand the relationship between street elements and urban vitality, thereby creating more attractive and vibrant urban spaces and promoting sustainable urban development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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22 pages, 11240 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Landscape Perception of Urban Parks Based on User-Generated Data

by Wei Ren, Kaiyuan Zhan, Zhu Chen and Xin-Chen Hong

Buildings 2024, 14(9), 2776; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14092776 - 4 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1410

Abstract

User-generated data can reflect various viewpoints and experiences derived from people’s perception outcomes. The perceptual results can be obtained, often by combining subjective public perceptions of the landscape with physiological monitoring data. Accessing people’s perceptions of the landscape through text is a common [...] Read more.

User-generated data can reflect various viewpoints and experiences derived from people’s perception outcomes. The perceptual results can be obtained, often by combining subjective public perceptions of the landscape with physiological monitoring data. Accessing people’s perceptions of the landscape through text is a common method. It is hard to fully render nuances, emotions, and complexities depending only on text by superficial emotional tendencies alone. Numerical representations may lead to misleading conclusions and undermine public participation. In addition, the use of physiological test data does not reflect the subjective reasons for the comments made. Therefore, it is essential to deeply parse the text and distinguish between segments with different semantic differences. In this study, we propose a perceptual psychology-based workflow to extract and visualize multifaceted views from user-generated data. The analysis methods of FCN, LDA, and LSTM were incorporated into the workflow. Six areas in Fuzhou City, China, with 12 city parks, were selected as the study object. Firstly, 9987 review data and 1747 pictures with corresponding visitor trajectories were crawled separately on the Dianping and Liangbulu websites. For in-depth analysis of comment texts and making relevant heat maps. Secondly, the process of clauses was added to get a more accurate representation of the sentiment of things based on the LSTM sentiment analysis model. Thirdly, various factors affecting the perception of landscapes were explored. Based on such, the overall people’s perception of urban parks in Fuzhou was finally obtained. The study results show that (1) the texts in terms of ‘wind’, ‘temperature’, ‘structures’, ‘edge space (spatial boundaries)’, and ‘passed space’ are the five most representative factors of the urban parks in Fuzhou; (2) the textual analyses further confirmed the influence of spatial factors on perception in the temporal dimension; and (3) environmental factors influence people’s sense of urban parks concerning specificity, clocking behavior, and comfort feelings. These research results provide indispensable references for optimizing and transforming urban environments using user-generated data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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23 pages, 10102 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Heat Mitigation Benefits of Street Tree Species during Transition Seasons in Hot and Humid Areas: A Case Study in Guangzhou

by Senlin Zheng, Caiwei He, Haodong Xu, Jean-Michel Guldmann and Xiao Liu

Forests 2024, 15(8), 1459; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15081459 - 19 Aug 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1101

Abstract

The potential microclimatic effects of street trees are influenced by their ecological characteristics, planting patterns, and street orientations, especially in subtropical hot and humid areas. To investigate these effects, four typical street tree species in Guangzhou were selected for study during the transition [...] Read more.

The potential microclimatic effects of street trees are influenced by their ecological characteristics, planting patterns, and street orientations, especially in subtropical hot and humid areas. To investigate these effects, four typical street tree species in Guangzhou were selected for study during the transition seasons: Khaya senegalensis, Terminalia neotaliala, Ficus microcarpa, and Mangifera indica. Air temperature (AT), relative humidity (RH), solar radiation (SR), surface temperature (ST), wind speed (WS), and the leaf area index (LAI) were monitored. The cooling effects of these four species and the resulting improvements in human thermal comfort (HTC) were assessed. The influences of tree planting patterns and street orientations on cooling benefits were systematically analyzed. The results indicate that, during transition seasons, the four street trees, on average, can block 96.68% of SR, reduce AT by 1.45 °C and ST by 10.25 °C, increase RH by 5.26%, and lower the physiologically equivalent temperature (PET) by 8.34 °C. Terminalia neotaliala, reducing AT and PET by 1.76 °C and 12.4 °C, respectively, offers the greatest potential for microclimate improvement. Among the four tree species, the variations in ST (ΔST) and PET (ΔPET) were minimal, at only 0.76 °C and 0.25 °C, respectively. The average differences in AT and PET between inter-tree and under-tree environments were 0.06 °C and 0.98 °C, respectively. The AT reduction rate was 1.7 times higher in the double-row planting pattern compared to the single-row planting pattern. Street trees planted in the northwest–southeast (NW-SE) orientation exhibited a 16.96% lower WS reduction than those in other orientations. The northeast–southwest (NE-SW) orientation showed the least potential to enhance human thermal comfort. Compared to NE-SW, the northwest–southeast (NW-SE) orientation achieved twice the rate of AT reduction, while the north–south (N-S) orientation improved it by 1.3 times. This data analysis aids in assessing the impact of green infrastructure on urban climates and demonstrates the year-round microclimatic benefits of street trees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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18 pages, 6196 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on the Current Situation of Public Service Facilities’ Layout from the Perspective of 15-Minute Communities—Taking Chengdu of Sichuan Province as an Example

by Yihua Sun and Shixian Luo

Land 2024, 13(7), 1110; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13071110 - 22 Jul 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1497

Abstract

With the rapid expansion of cities, the construction of 15-minute communities has become an important way to improve the urban living environment and enhance the quality of life of residents. In this study, based on the perspective of a 15-minute community in Chengdu, [...] Read more.

With the rapid expansion of cities, the construction of 15-minute communities has become an important way to improve the urban living environment and enhance the quality of life of residents. In this study, based on the perspective of a 15-minute community in Chengdu, the current situation of the spatial layout in the 12 main urban districts of 15,941 public service facility points is studied. Additionally, the matching relationship between the supply and demand of five major categories (19 subcategories) of public service facilities and the population is assessed by using the kernel density analysis method, the Gaussian two-step floating catchment area method, the hierarchical analysis method and the bivariate spatial autocorrelation. Finally, suggestions for the optimization of basic service facilities are made in the light of the current development situation in Chengdu. The results show that (1) there is a large spatial heterogeneity in the distribution and accessibility of public service facilities in the study area; (2) there is a mismatch between the supply and demand of public service facilities and the population in Chengdu; and (3) in order to further optimize the allocation of public service facilities, it is necessary to focus first on areas where demand exceeds supply. This study built a framework for assessing the current status of spatial distribution of public service facilities, which measures the 15-minute accessibility of basic public service facilities in a more comprehensive way and bridges the gap of previous single-type studies, which make it difficult to make comprehensive optimization recommendations directly. Meanwhile, the bivariate spatial autocorrelation reveals the areas of mismatch between supply and demand more accurately, and more clearly shows the areas that need to be focused on for optimization by policy makers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Human-Environment Interaction and Sustainable Governance)

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