Publisher's Synopsis
The book studies specific aspects of urban planning and environmental management, aiming to provide actionable insights and solutions. This book opens with an analysis of urban processes and the development of mass housing estates, using Famagusta, Cyprus, as a case study. It highlights how topographical factors influence urban growth and housing patterns, providing important implications for infrastructure planning. A significant focus is placed on the development of environmentally-friendly building materials. Several chapters explore the use of waste products, such as cork, in creating sustainable materials. Green and blue infrastructure also receive substantial attention. The book addresses strategies for integrating these elements into urban environments to combat climate change. Topics such as the retention capacity of green roofs and the role of vegetation in improving urban air quality underscore the importance of ecological infrastructure in creating resilient cities. The book further studies urban climate and pollution analysis, presenting advanced methods for monitoring and managing environmental conditions. Chapters on climate change monitoring, air pollution assessment through bryophytes, and VOCs monitoring provide tools for understanding and addressing urban environmental challenges. Human-centric design is another key theme, with discussions on pedestrian comfort and walkability in urban spaces. By focusing on outdoor promenades and thermal comfort, the book highlights the need for urban designs that enhance the quality of life for residents. Practical approaches to project management and planning are also covered. The book introduces methodologies such as PERT/CPM and Monte Carlo simulation techniques for improving project outcomes and developing criteria for climate-friendly planning competitions. Finally, the preservation of landscape heritage amidst urban expansion is explored. A methodology for creating a landscape catalog in Arequipa, Peru, is presented as a way to balance development with the conservation of cultural and natural landscapes.
