Urban Studies
Articles tagged with Urban Studies
Biomonitoring the Anthropocene: NY's East River becomes a living biosensor
A year-long study of NYC's East River used environmental DNA to reveal insights into urban wildlife activity, human food consumption and ecosystem health. The findings suggest that urban waterways can become continuous biosensors tracking biodiversity and habitat restoration outcomes.
Green alley effectiveness depends on design and purpose, Concordia-led study finds
A Concordia-led study analyzed 53 green alleys and 23 conventional alleys in Montreal and Trois-Rivières, finding that results depend on alley design and purpose. The study suggests a middle ground between community-led projects and standardized approaches to achieve both biodiversity and social cohesion.
A tool based on cell phone calls helps plan cities based on their residents' routines
Researchers at the University of Cordoba developed MAPLID, a tool that maps city structures and pace based on how residents use their cell phones. The multi-label classification provides information on population density changes and traffic patterns.
FAU study uncovers why pedestrian deaths continue to rise in the US
A new study by Florida Atlantic University researchers highlights the role of urban planning in increasing pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities in the US. The study reveals that everyday destinations like grocery stores and pharmacies along busy roads significantly increase risk of serious injury or death.
Challenging the urban-rural divide in ecology
A new framework proposes a continuum of urbanity, challenging traditional thinking about urban and rural spaces. The study explores how urban, rural, and wild features are interconnected, affecting livelihoods, ecosystems, and human well-being in the Mid-Hudson Valley region.
UT Arlington professor examines rise of global megacities
The book analyzes Jakarta through the lens of post-suburbanization, highlighting how rapid expansion, infrastructure politics, spatial fragmentation, and socio-environmental challenges shape its growth. The volume provides a comprehensive English-language analysis of Jakarta's contemporary urban evolution.
Too hot to handle? Study explores how heat is reshaping US population shifts
A new study from Florida Atlantic University challenges the narrative that rising temperatures will drive Americans away, finding that heat alone isn't driving large-scale out-migration. Instead, population shifts are shaped more by economic opportunity, housing affordability and local quality of life than climate conditions.
Concordia research simplifies method for estimating climate impact of reflective surfaces
A new study by Hashem Akbari offers a simplified way to calculate the climate impact of reflective surfaces, allowing policy practitioners to view problems on a regional basis. Increasing albedo by 0.01 can offset about 1.8 to 2 kilograms of CO₂ per square metre globally, with some regions reaching up to 5 kilograms.
MIT researchers measure traffic emissions, to the block, in real-time
A new study by MIT researchers provides a high-resolution picture of auto emissions in NYC, allowing for more effective transportation and decarbonization policies. The method produces detailed data that bridges the gap between citywide emissions inventories and individual vehicle analyses.
Quebec’s residential energy use is better explained by demographics than building age, Concordia study shows
A Concordia University study found that demographic factors such as income and household size drive energy consumption in Quebec's major urban centres. The research used meter readings and census data to reveal strong links between social characteristics and energy use, with higher-income areas and larger households consuming more energy.
Barcelona Metropolitan Area loses over 70% of agricultural land in recent decades
The study reveals that peri-urban agriculture is key to urban resilience and calls for an urgent shift in planning policies. Agricultural land losses are driven by urban expansion, real estate speculation, and low profitability.
Study examines how autonomous vehicles may change morning commutes
Researchers examined how autonomous vehicles affect morning commutes and parking in business districts, finding that AVs could increase vehicle hours and miles traveled. Urban planners can adapt policies to accommodate AVs by adjusting parking fees or infrastructure, reducing total system cost by up to 28.5 percent.
Generative AI-powered forecasting for sustainable urban development
A new generative AI framework predicts future urban layouts considering multiple factors. The Memory-aware Multi-Conditional generation Network (MMCN) offers a novel approach to modeling complex urban evolution, providing a powerful tool for sustainable urban development.
Elders’ stories are bringing digital models of lost communities to life
A team from Ohio State University has digitally reconstructed three historically Black communities that were fragmented or demolished for freeway construction. The project, known as Ghost Neighborhoods of Columbus, aims to show how urban renewal decisions of the past have a positive impact on future development.
New paper outlines pathways to equitable flood adaptation
A new perspective in Nature Water highlights how urban flooding measures often exacerbate environmental injustices for society's most vulnerable groups. The study identifies two main reasons for this unequal distribution of risk: higher exposure to climate hazards and limited resources, leading to a lower capacity to bounce back.
Study finds function–evolution trade-off in urban park soil microbes
Urban parks exhibit enhanced microbial activity and nutrient-cycling capacity, but with smaller genomes and reduced evolutionary potential. This 'function–evolution trade-off' highlights the need for urban green space planning that balances short-term ecological function with long-term microbial diversity and resilience.
Less traffic, less noise: Green axes reduce noise levels in cities
A study in Barcelona found that pedestrianisation reduces noise levels by 3.1 dB, exceeding WHO guidelines, but finds no impact from pedestrian activity, which takes over acoustical space previously dominated by motorised traffic.
More trees where they matter, please
A new study reveals disparities in urban shade levels, leading to greater health risks and exacerbating the 'heat island' effect in cities. Wealthier neighborhoods tend to have more trees, resulting in better shade provision for pedestrians, highlighting a consistent link between wealth and neighborhood tree abundance.
When blackouts occur during heat waves, Austin homes pose major risk
A new study assesses indoor heat vulnerability for each single-family home in Austin, finding that 85% of homes would pose significant risk to an elderly person during a power outage. The city can now take a methodical approach to mitigating risk through cooling centers and home weatherization programs.
New ‘URBank’ database enables comparative archaeological and historical urbanism
The URBANK database aggregates and analyzes urban data to overcome fragmentation and variability in archaeological record. It offers a multidisciplinary platform for studying cities as dynamic networks of connected elements.
I’m walking here! A new model maps foot traffic in New York City
A new model maps foot traffic in New York City, providing insights into pedestrian activity and hazard locations. The study reveals high densities of foot traffic outside Manhattan, with many streets having similar foot-traffic levels to Manhattan's busiest areas.
Temperature of some cities could rise faster than expected under 2°C warming
Research from the University of East Anglia predicts that tropical cities will experience increased urban heat island effects under 2°C global warming. The study finds that up to 81% of medium-sized cities will warm more than surrounding rural areas, with some experiencing warming rates up to 100% higher.
Most EV charging stations are out of walking distance for older Montrealers, Concordia research shows
A Concordia University study reveals that nearly half of Montreal's elderly care facilities lack public EV charging stations within a 15-minute walk. This limits access not only for residents but also for caregivers and staff. Strategically placing new chargers in underserved areas can improve accessibility without expanding the network.
Balancing comfort and sustainability with climate-tailored housing
A research team from Osaka Metropolitan University found that optimizing window-to-wall ratio and insulation can reduce energy consumption by up to 27% in subtropical regions. The study provides tailored design guidelines for each climate zone, promoting net-zero energy housing and climate adaptation policies.
Living walls boost biodiversity by providing safe spaces for urban wildlife
A new study has found that living walls can significantly enhance urban biodiversity by attracting pollinators and other wildlife. The research revealed that soil-based living walls with plants in soil attracted more wildlife than those with artificial substrates, and specific plant species like ivy and honeysuckle were most effective.
SFU study searches Strava to reveal secrets to happier runs
A recent SFU study analyzed 3,200 Strava posts from Metro Vancouver runners between 2010 and 2021 to understand what makes running enjoyable. The research identified six key factors shaping runner experiences: psychological aspects, social connections, weather, surroundings, physical sensations, and path conditions.
Fewer layovers, better-connected airports, more firm growth
A new study by MIT researchers reveals that cities with strong airline connections are more likely to attract multinational firms, particularly in knowledge industries. The study analyzed 7.5 million firms in 800 cities and found that direct flights lead to a 20% increase in subsidiaries, compared to cities with only one-stop connections.
New study finds historic buildings contribute to urban scenicness as much as trees and water
A new study found that historic buildings in English cities enhance scenicness, with scores 25% higher than the average urban score. The study's findings suggest that heritage designations and architectural significance are key factors influencing scenic beauty.
Rural-urban differences in the prevalence of chronic pain among adult cancer survivors
Chronic pain prevalence differs between rural and urban adult cancer survivors, with rural areas showing higher rates despite having fewer resources. Limited access to pain specialists and insurance challenges contribute to these disparities.
New framework reveals where transport emissions concentrate in Singapore
A new framework reveals that compact, mixed-use districts like One-North are designed to generate cleaner travel patterns, but the reality is more complex. Emissions hotspots were identified at major arterial roads, weaker transit-accessible edges of districts, and busy corridors like North Buona Vista Road.
Hidden patterns of isolation and segregation found in all American cities
A comprehensive analysis of 383 US cities found common patterns of isolation and segregation, with wealthy suburban areas and poorer downtown zones often having limited interactions between residents. Researchers recommend zoning incentives and strategic development to encourage greater diversity and social mixing.
Study shows how everyday repairs sustain autonomy in a Japanese squat
Residents at a Japanese squat sustain autonomy through collaborative maintenance, fostering safety and inclusion. Simple spatial interventions enable diverse residents to coexist, challenging common assumptions on urban planning.
Why didn’t the senior citizen cross the road? Slower crossings may help people with reduced mobility
Research finds that standard road crossing intervals are too short for older adults with limited mobility, resulting in a need for slower crossings. The study analyzed walking speeds of 1,110 adults aged 65 and over and found that just 1.5% can cross the road within the typical time allowed by pedestrian signals.
Urban sprawl could deny 220 million people access to clean water by 2050
A study analyzing over 100 cities in Asia, Africa, and Latin America found that compact urban planning is crucial for delivering water and sanitation to growing populations. The research suggests that if cities spread outward rather than building more densely, access to clean water and basic sanitation could be significantly impacted.
How supplemental feeding boosts reproductive conditions of urban squirrels
Researchers found that urban female Eurasian red squirrels have a higher pregnancy rate and reproduce earlier than rural females. Urban females also reproduced longer, with some continuing up to five years of age, compared to four years in rural populations.
Over half of global coastal settlements are retreating inland due to intensifying climate risks
Over half of global coastal settlements have retreated from the coast over the past 30 years in response to intensifying climate hazards. Coastal regions in Africa and Oceania lead the retreat, while poorer regions often expand shoreline settlements due to economic needs.
New study reveals spatial patterns of crime rates and media coverage across Chicago
A recent study analyzed crime data from 2017 to 2023 and found links between walkable areas and theft, dense road networks and higher crime rates, as well as disparities in media coverage of different crimes. The research aims to inform efforts to improve safety and provide more accurate information to the public.
Reducing greenspace exposure gaps in China: A new approach to urban equity
A new study reveals that increasing greenspace exposure inequality rose by 25% in Chinese cities from 2000 to 2020, threatening equitable access. By employing a network optimization strategy, inequalities can be reduced by up to 20.8% without needing to expand total greenspace.
People in isolated cities in Africa suffer more violence against civilians
A new study by Complexity Science Hub researcher Rafael Prieto-Curiel challenges the assumption that larger cities are more violent. The study shows that isolated cities, with limited highway connections, experience nearly seven times more violence against civilians per 100,000 residents than well-connected cities.
Beyond rent: Shared houses in Tokyo offer lifestyle, safety, and community
Shared houses in Tokyo are marketed as lifestyle-driven homes focusing on comfort, connection, and personal growth. The study reveals that properties near train stations emphasize accessibility and neighborhood convenience, while those farther away highlight natural surroundings and social interaction.
Humanity travels an average of 78 minutes per day, regardless of living standards
According to a new study, humans travel for approximately 1.3 hours per day, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status. This constant travel time is influenced by psychological desires and practical limitations, resulting in a convergent range of travel times across different modes of transport.
Who benefits from neighborhood parks?
A new study found that public greenspaces are lacking in many American communities, with some groups facing significant barriers to access. The research highlights the need for more inclusive park planning and distribution to ensure equal benefits for all residents.
Arctic town Kiruna is colder after the move
The city's relocation to a depression resulted in colder temperatures, up to 10 degrees lower in winter. The new design prioritizes aesthetics over climate protection, creating a 'bloody wind tunnel' and neglecting essential features like snow insulation.
How do land use policies contribute to racial segregation in communities?
Minimum lot size regulations can cause racial segregation through both economic and voluntary choices, according to new research. Households with higher incomes are more willing to pay for larger lots, while Black households show a lower willingness to pay, highlighting a racial preference effect.
‘Slums’ of Victorian Manchester housed wealthy doctors and engineers, new study reveals
A new study reveals that middle-class Mancunians, including doctors and engineers, lived alongside working-class residents in the same buildings and streets. The research found that over 60% of buildings housing wealthy occupational classes also housed unskilled laborers.
Food delivery apps depend on cheap immigrant labor to survive, Concordia research shows
A study of food delivery couriers in Montreal and Toronto reveals a system characterized by low pay, long hours, and limited job security. The research highlights the role of economically precarious immigrant workers in supporting the industry's rapid growth.
Mapping an entire subcontinent for sustainable development
Researchers at the University of Chicago created an unprecedented approach to urban development using high-resolution data. The analysis shows that cities with better infrastructure have better developmental outcomes, and that improving access can improve residents' well-being beyond just physical needs.
There is a hidden simplicity behind how people move
The study reveals that when physical constraints are removed, human mobility follows a power-law pattern, decreasing steadily with distance. The researchers found this pattern across five orders of magnitude, from 10 meters to hundreds of kilometers.
Pedestrians now walk faster and linger less, researchers find
A new study reveals that pedestrians are now walking faster and spending less time in public spaces. Researchers analyzed 40 years of video footage to find a 14% decline in people lingering in these areas.
Murals boost Cincinnati’s vitality, community development
A UC study finds that murals are associated with higher foot traffic, denser housing, and increased cultural identity in Cincinnati's neighborhoods. The research also highlights the potential for murals to contribute to urban policy decisions, guiding investments in public art to achieve broader community development goals.
Teens report spending 21% of each driving trip looking at their phone
A new study found that teen drivers spend an average of 21.1% of each trip viewing their mobile behind the wheel, with entertainment being the most common distraction. The study also revealed that many young drivers believe they can withstand the pressure to drive distracted and perceive a social norm of the behavior.
Religion, politics and war drive urban wildlife evolution
A new analysis reveals that religion, politics, and war can drive evolutionary changes in urban wildlife, leading to population differences and genetic drift. The study's findings have implications for city planning and management, highlighting the need for researchers to record changes as they happen using digital technology.
Is “balance” just gentrification in disguise? New study challenges Rotterdam’s housing policy
A new study by the Complexity Science Hub questions Rotterdam's 'balanced neighborhoods' policy, finding little evidence of stronger community ties despite efforts to mix income groups. The research highlights the risks of gentrification and displacement of low-income communities.
Bilbao's urban elements determine the physical activity of its inhabitants
A University of the Basque Country study found that Bilbao's urban elements significantly impact physical activity levels. Citizens prioritized green areas, multi-purpose facilities, and accessibility, highlighting the importance of proper management and maintenance. The research also emphasized the need for pedestrian-friendly infrast...
Research into new strategies to combat rural depopulation in Spain
Researchers from UC3M and UCA propose an integrated approach to tackle rural depopulation, focusing on spatial planning, economic diversification, and infrastructure development. Municipalities with up-to-date urban planning strategies show a 10% average population growth, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions.
Study explores how to use AI to listen to the ‘heartbeat’ of a city
University of Missouri researchers create digital sentiment map using AI to analyze public Instagram posts, linking emotional tone to real-life features. The tool aims to improve city services, identify areas of concern, and inform emergency response decisions.
Link between ADHD and obesity might depend on where you live
A study found that impulsivity in ADHD is linked to reduced physical activity, which can contribute to obesity. Urban lifestyle factors like food insecurity and access to mental health care influence this relationship.
Barcelona's unique walking patterns defy one-size-fits-all mobility policies
A new study by UOC, UB, and EPFL identifies factors that encourage walking in Barcelona, but finds they can have the opposite effect depending on the neighborhood. The research provides valuable insights into pedestrian mobility and how it can be managed through targeted interventions.
New research from Incheon National University reveals the key to road safety
A study by researchers at Incheon National University found that pedestrian and roadside facilities have a substantial direct effect on crash outcomes, particularly for run-off crashes. The team suggests prioritizing these modifiable operational features in road safety strategies to improve safety.