Cities are dynamic – and can be considered living and breathing entities that establish the foundations for societies to exist, grow, and evolve.
They exemplify a dual identity: on one hand, cities can be seen as the physical stance through which individuals live, work, and play. On the other hand, cities can transcend as a representation of cultural identity and also foster human connection.
“Urban planning serves as a mechanism to deeply understand the interactions that occur within the built and natural environments.”
Urban planning is a game of balance in which urban planners must juggle different interests that surface with cities’ competing economic prosperity, social equity, and environmental protection priorities.
At the heart of these three priorities often lies the goal of sustainable development, which the United Nations introduced in 1987 in the ‘Our Common Future’ report as the ability to meet the needs of its current generation without negatively affecting the needs of future generations.
“Nature serves as a vehicle to spur innovation and propose new ways of designing how residents interact with their surroundings.”
How can planners emphasize the role of nature as a foundational element in shaping the future of urban environments?
In this scenario, existing planetary constraints and careful environmental protection considerations can help dictate alternative and unchartered routes through which a city can progress, one where nature exists as both a necessity and a desire.
It is important to note how changing needs can affect the success of a project such as superblocks, therefore an emphasis on continuous evaluation and adjustments is necessary.
‘Superblocks’ are a group of city blocks meant to reconfigure the urban grid to further sustainability efforts for the city. They redistribute road spaces to prioritize pedestrians and cyclists, limiting vehicle traffic with the intent to increase green public spaces for the community.
“Overall contributing to the vibrancy and livability of the city.”
As, urban planners continue to navigate the integration of nature as a fundamental component in the evolution of urban environments, acting as a driver for sustainability. Initiatives such as ‘superblocks’ can encourage cities to reconsider conventional approaches to city planning.
Therefore, as cities embrace nature as a catalyst for change, this can foster sustainable cities apt to meet the needs of current and future generations.
