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Sustainable Transformation in the Global South: Context-Driven Urban Design, Livelihoods...
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Sustainable Transformation in the Global South: Context-Driven Urban Design, Livelihoods and Development Challenges

A special issue of Urban Science (ISSN 2413-8851).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2022) | Viewed by 43238

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Atiq Zaman

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Design and the Built Environment, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
Interests: circular economy; zero-waste; waste management; future cities; sustainability assessment; life cycle assessment; climate adaptation; sustainable construct
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Mohammad Swapan

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Design and the Built Environment, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
Interests: green adaptation; informal green space; ecosystem services; place attachment; co-production; participation outcomes; Public Private Partnership (PPP); disaster risk paradigm; informality; Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); resilient cities
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The New Urban Agenda (NUA) set out by United Nations in 2016, in line with the new Sustainable Development Goals, marks a clear direction of future research, especially in the discourse of urban planning, architecture, construction management, urban governance, urban environmental management and disaster management and resilience. There is also an increasing realisation of the need to promote the exchange of knowledge and share best practices and experiences between North and South. The rise of the Global South has elevated geospatial discourse to new heights demanding new insights into peripheral urbanisation, overexploitation and polarisation of resources, widening environmental vulnerability gap and trends in alienated mega-infrastructure development.

This calls for a revisiting of established theories of growth characteristics within the sociopolitical, economic and environmental realities of the Global South. Focusing on such vital development scenarios that characterise the Global South, this Special Issue aims to explore advanced and alternative theses around production and management of the sustainable built environment in the Global South. The issue will facilitate the generation of knowledge through innovative transdisciplinary approaches and alternative solutions to enable good governance, policy, regulations, codes, design criteria and, most importantly, emancipated voices and debates among global stakeholders of development in the South.

We are inviting submissions for the Special Issue “Transformation in the Global South: Context-Driven Urban Design, Livelihoods and Development Challenges”, which explores advanced and alternative theses around development and urbanisation in the Global South. This Special Issue is expected to widen our knowledge by exploring innovative transdisciplinary approaches and alternative solutions to enable innovative urban design, good governance and development and partnerships in the Global South to deliver sustainable livelihoods by addressing the Sustainable Development Goals.

The Special Issue will include a collection of original research articles, discussion papers or technical notes and review papers on (but not limited to) the following topics:

  • Sustainable urban and regional development;
  • Urban informality;
  • Food security and sustainable livelihoods;
  • Sustainable consumption and waste management;
  • Development partnerships and governance;
  • Post-COVID-19 development challenges.

Dr. Atiq Zaman
Dr. Mohammad Swapan
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Urban Science is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Climate change 
  • Disaster management 
  • Food security 
  • Global partnerships 
  • Global South 
  • Livelihood 
  • Post-COVID-19 challenges 
  • Rural–urban development 
  • Sustainable built environment 
  • Sustainable Development Goals 
  • Urban governance 
  • Urban informality 
  • Urbanisation
  • Waste management

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

25 pages, 2550 KiB  
Article
Emerging Transformations in Material Use and Waste Practices in the Global South: Plastic-Free and Zero Waste in India
by Katie Conlon
Urban Sci. 2023, 7(2), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci7020047 - 02 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2431
Abstract
This study uses a qualitative approach to address limitations and blockages to current plastics reduction via semi-structured interviews with zero waste business practitioners in India. Although they are nascent, India is home to a budding zero waste community that is grappling with how [...] Read more.
This study uses a qualitative approach to address limitations and blockages to current plastics reduction via semi-structured interviews with zero waste business practitioners in India. Although they are nascent, India is home to a budding zero waste community that is grappling with how to reduce plastics—via trial and error—and these stakeholders hold insights from lived experience on how plastic reduction can actualize in the Indian subcontinent. This research involved interviewing zero waste businesses and consultants and makers of plastic alternatives in India to understand their experiences with plastic reduction strategies. The key stakeholder interviews reveal key insights for moving forward with plastic reduction initiatives, including challenges faced at government, business, and social levels; considerations regarding plastic waste generation; motivations for starting zero waste businesses and organizations; how it will be possible to operationalize plastic bans in India; appropriate actions for plastic waste reduction; elements that would help India shift into a more circular, regenerative economy; and locally appropriate alternatives to plastics. The discussion further delves into caveats with various alternatives to plastic materials, economic considerations, and characteristics of the zero waste network, and provides next steps for action at the government, business, and civil levels for reducing plastic waste generation in India and minimizing plastic pollution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transformation in the Global South: Context-Driven Urban Design, Livelihoods and Development Challenges)
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17 pages, 2483 KiB  
Article
An Exploratory Study of Crime: Examining Lived Experiences of Crime through Socioeconomic, Demographic, and Physical Characteristics
by Christopher Chimaobi Onyeneke and Aly H. Karam
Urban Sci. 2022, 6(3), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci6030043 - 24 Jun 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 10197
Abstract
Debates in urban social research indicate that one of the most significant problems facing cities of the global south is the dilemma of crime. This study explores the research question: what is the level of influence of economic deprivation and residential mobility weights [...] Read more.
Debates in urban social research indicate that one of the most significant problems facing cities of the global south is the dilemma of crime. This study explores the research question: what is the level of influence of economic deprivation and residential mobility weights on criminal activities within vulnerable neighborhoods in urban centres? This research focuses on the urban social structural theory of social disorganization, to investigate how socioeconomic, demographic, and physical characteristics affect criminal behaviour. The study adopted a qualitative research approach that is cross-sectional. With the use of volunteer self-selection sampling techniques, in-depth interviews were conducted with heads of households via a semi-structured interview guide. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The study found that sociological factors such as economic deprivation and socioeconomic inequality lead to the gradual integration of delinquency in cities. The findings of this research build on the existing theory of social disorganization. To ensure safety, residents’ economic status must be standardized by supporting the provision of more regulated informal sector opportunities and activities for active engagement in supervising and controlling youth behaviour. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transformation in the Global South: Context-Driven Urban Design, Livelihoods and Development Challenges)
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36 pages, 23301 KiB  
Article
Smart City Thailand: Visioning and Design to Enhance Sustainability, Resiliency, and Community Wellbeing
by K. N. Irvine, Asan Suwanarit, Fa Likitswat, Hansa Srilertchaipanij, Massimo Ingegno, Peeradorn Kaewlai, Pranisa Boonkam, Nij Tontisirin, Alisa Sahavacharin, Jitiporn Wongwatcharapaiboon and Shusak Janpathompong
Urban Sci. 2022, 6(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci6010007 - 03 Feb 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 10771
Abstract
A “Smart City” framework was used to investigate and develop visions of alternative futures for a peri-urban superblock north of Bangkok, Thailand. The Smart City framework considers seven smart pillars: environment, economy, energy, mobility, people, living, and governance, with a focus on community [...] Read more.
A “Smart City” framework was used to investigate and develop visions of alternative futures for a peri-urban superblock north of Bangkok, Thailand. The Smart City framework considers seven smart pillars: environment, economy, energy, mobility, people, living, and governance, with a focus on community wellbeing that is supported by information and communication technology (ICT). A mixed-method approach that included: community and industry surveys, both online and face-to-face (total n = 770); in depth, semi-structured, stakeholder interviews; passive participant observation; and photo-documentation was used to inform and organize the project visions and designs. Several themes emerged from the community surveys and key stakeholder interviews: (i) connected green space is highly valued and effectively links multiple smart pillars, enhancing community wellbeing and resiliency to flooding; (ii) superblock mobility, connectivity, and sustainable development could be achieved through a seamless, integrated public-transit system following the principles of transit-oriented development (TOD); (iii) the superblock should prepare for the implementation of Thailand 4.0 through the improved programmatic and physical integration of local industry, community, and universities, including plans for a Digital Village and co-work space. Example designs that address these considerations and vision alternative futures for the superblock are presented in this Smart City case study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transformation in the Global South: Context-Driven Urban Design, Livelihoods and Development Challenges)
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17 pages, 2627 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Tourism Planning: A Strategy for Oecusse-Ambeno, East Timor
by Miguel Amado and Evelina Rodrigues
Urban Sci. 2021, 5(4), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci5040073 - 28 Sep 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3303
Abstract
This paper aims to explore the topic of sustainable tourism activity. The subject has emerged in the last two decades from discussions about the content of the report, Our Common Future. The decision to transform developing countries into new offerings for ecological and [...] Read more.
This paper aims to explore the topic of sustainable tourism activity. The subject has emerged in the last two decades from discussions about the content of the report, Our Common Future. The decision to transform developing countries into new offerings for ecological and cultural tourism brings to the discussion the imprecise and conflicting definitions of the concept and the need to distinguish between the development of tourism, and sustainable tourism supported on the principles of sustainable development. The research reviews the environmental and social contexts of the Oecusse-Ambeno region in East Timor. It discusses the new sustainable tourism activities in the region with the need to ensure that the concept includes a strong base of perceived authenticity in the human context and the physical environment. The problems of the carrying capacity control of tourism development, and the term’s relevance to mass or conventional tourism, are strategically anticipated. The region is confronted with an offer that supports more peacefulness, and that is more aligned to the culture and the natural environment. This paper provides insight into the ways in which tourists perceive the authenticity of visitor attractions and highlights the importance of the cultural and environmental values of tourism destinations for strategic planning and marketing purposes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transformation in the Global South: Context-Driven Urban Design, Livelihoods and Development Challenges)
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20 pages, 5878 KiB  
Article
Spatial Information Gaps on Deprived Urban Areas (Slums) in Low-and-Middle-Income-Countries: A User-Centered Approach
by Monika Kuffer, Jon Wang, Dana R. Thomson, Stefanos Georganos, Angela Abascal, Maxwell Owusu and Sabine Vanhuysse
Urban Sci. 2021, 5(4), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci5040072 - 26 Sep 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4027
Abstract
Routine and accurate data on deprivation are needed for urban planning and decision support at various scales (i.e., from community to international). However, analyzing information requirements of diverse users on urban deprivation, we found that data are often not available or inaccessible. To [...] Read more.
Routine and accurate data on deprivation are needed for urban planning and decision support at various scales (i.e., from community to international). However, analyzing information requirements of diverse users on urban deprivation, we found that data are often not available or inaccessible. To bridge this data gap, Earth Observation (EO) data can support access to frequently updated spatial information. However, a user-centered approach is urgently required for the production of EO-based mapping products. Combining an online survey and several forms of user interactions, we defined five system specifications (derived from user requirements) for designing an open-access spatial information system for deprived urban areas. First, gridded maps represent the optimal spatial granularity to deal with high uncertainties of boundaries of deprived areas and to protect privacy. Second, a high temporal granularity of 1–2 years is important to respond to the high spatial dynamics of urban areas. Third, detailed local-scale information should be part of a city-to-global information system. Fourth, both aspects, community assets and risks, need to be part of an information system, and such data need to be combined with local community-based information. Fifth, in particular, civil society and government users should have fair access to data that bridges the digital barriers. A data ecosystem on urban deprivation meeting these requirements will be able to support community-level action for improving living conditions in deprived areas, local science-based policymaking, and tracking progress towards global targets such as the SDGs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transformation in the Global South: Context-Driven Urban Design, Livelihoods and Development Challenges)
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20 pages, 3414 KiB  
Article
Spatial Analysis of Intra-Urban Land Use Dynamics in Sub-Saharan Africa: The Case of Addis Ababa (Ethiopia)
by Amanuel Weldegebriel, Engdawork Assefa, Katarzyna Janusz, Meron Tekalign and Anton Van Rompaey
Urban Sci. 2021, 5(3), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci5030057 - 06 Aug 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3473
Abstract
Currently, circa 30% of the population in sub-Saharan Africa resides in cities, and this figure is expected to double in 2040. The recent literature describes the urban expansion processes of African cities in much detail. However, the urbanization wave in Africa also leads [...] Read more.
Currently, circa 30% of the population in sub-Saharan Africa resides in cities, and this figure is expected to double in 2040. The recent literature describes the urban expansion processes of African cities in much detail. However, the urbanization wave in Africa also leads to important intra-urban land use dynamics, which have important consequences on the quality of life within existing cities, which has received less attention. This study aims to contribute to these information gaps by (1) analyzing the extent of the urban land use conversion in contrasting urban locations using satellite images for physical criteria-based classifications and (2) assessing the potential consequences of these intra-urban conversions on the quality of life. Intra-urban land use changes were documented based on satellite imagery for the period 2002–2020. Based on some representative attributes, Addis Ababa city was selected for the case study. Urban land use dynamics and population density changes were examined based on the selected case study neighborhoods and randomly identified land parcels in the city, respectively. Urban development strategies and programs that emerged over recent decades had caused intra-urban land use dynamics, which brought significant population density changes. Moreover, these changes have caused an unbalanced distribution of socio-economic amenities across the city. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transformation in the Global South: Context-Driven Urban Design, Livelihoods and Development Challenges)
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27 pages, 12827 KiB  
Article
Placemaking in Informal Settlements: The Case of France Colony, Islamabad, Pakistan
by Ramisa Shafqat, Dora Marinova and Shahed Khan
Urban Sci. 2021, 5(2), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci5020049 - 20 Jun 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 7338
Abstract
This paper provides an alternative perspective on urban informal settlements by analysing them as places of rural remnants, reservoirs of regional cultural heritage, and spaces entailing traditional sustainable elements that are brought to the urban realm by rural migrants. These socio-cultural and spatial [...] Read more.
This paper provides an alternative perspective on urban informal settlements by analysing them as places of rural remnants, reservoirs of regional cultural heritage, and spaces entailing traditional sustainable elements that are brought to the urban realm by rural migrants. These socio-cultural and spatial attributes of a settlement converge under the notion of a “place.” Placemaking analysis is thus contended to be appropriate for comprehensive understanding of an informal settlement. The selected case study of France Colony, Islamabad, employs the placemaking methodology framework to investigate sustainability values and practices from the day-to-day living of its inhabitants. Data collected through on-site interviews during transect walks in France Colony are then translated into four maps as a spatio-cultural documentation of the sustainable elements found in the informal settlement. The four maps relate to form and users, activities and amenities, image and characteristics, and access and linkages. This systematic analysis assisted in categorising the sustainability characteristics of the informal settlements according to the three pillars (social, economic, and environmental) of sustainability. The findings show that the organic placemaking, originating from everyday life, values, behaviour, and lifestyle of the informal dwellers, allows for a strong and vibrant resilient community to emerge. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Transformation in the Global South: Context-Driven Urban Design, Livelihoods and Development Challenges)
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