Abstract
This research, funded by the US National Science Foundation and the EU Belmont Forum and conducted by our Carbon-Positive Research Design Studio from 2018 to 2024, tackles the deficiencies in current traditional master planning strategies for low-lying coastal subtropical urban development. Aiming for carbon positivity, resilience, and operational city climate adaptability, this 5-years research project is a critical component of the Climate Resilient Urban Nexus Choices initiative. It focuses on integrating sharing practices within open-access climate change resilient urban frameworks and Integrated Decision Support Systems (IDSS) tools, thereby reducing climate disruptions and vulnerability via the adaptable food, water, and renewable energy nexus implementation strategies. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the project utilises generative AI-SynBio digital twin scenario tools and workflows alongside data-driven urban planning strategies in four cities. It pioneers a participatory Urban Living Lab approach to boost community engagement and collaborative decision-making. The methodology encompasses a thorough gap analysis, pinpointing city-specific needs, creating data-driven tools, and validating resilient scenarios projected up to 2100. The research uncovers the pivotal role of sharing practices in diminishing urban environmental impacts, bolstering community ties, and fostering economic inclusivity. It offers a comprehensive framework for policymakers and urban planners to merge sharing economies with urban development strategies, creating sustainable, resilient, and holistic urban spaces. In essence, our findings advocate a participatory, integrated urban planning approach to reconciling sustainability objectives with community well-being. They offer a strategic blueprint for future subtropical coastal urban landscapes prioritising environmental resource management, blue-green infrastructure and transportation networks, and societal equity.
Presenters
Thomas SpiegelhalterProfessor, Co-Director Structural and Environmental Technologies Lab, College of Architecture, Communication and the Arts, Florida International University, Florida, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus— Sharing Practices and Sustainable Urban Fabrics
KEYWORDS
Participatory Design Tools Integrative Urban Living Labs Carbon-Positive Development Climate-Resilient Urban Planning Blue-Green Infrastructures AI-SynBio Digital Twin Scenarios
