Europe is home to a variety of different city types, each with its own unique characteristics and impact on human health, the environment, and carbon footprint. A recent study conducted by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) has analyzed 919 European cities to identify four basic urban configurations on the continent: compact-high density cities, open lowrise-medium density cities, open lowrise-low density cities, and green-low density cities.
Compact-high density cities, such as Barcelona, Milan, Paris, and Basel, are characterized by small surface areas and high population densities. While these cities have a high density of pedestrian areas and moderate cycleway density, they lack availability of green natural areas. The study found that compact cities have higher mortality rates, poorer air quality, and a stronger urban heat island effect. However, they also have lower greenhouse gas emissions per capita due to better energy efficiency.
Cities like Brussels, Dublin, and Leipzig fall under the category of open lowrise-medium density cities. These cities have small surface areas, medium population densities, and a relatively higher density of roads for motorized traffic. While they have intermediate availability of pedestrian areas, cycleways, and green spaces, they still face challenges like high motorized traffic flows and adverse exposure to air pollution.
Open lowrise-low density cities, including Pisa, Oviedo, and Toulouse, occupy a larger surface area with lower population densities. These cities have a lower availability of pedestrian areas and cycleways, but moderate to high availability of green natural spaces towards the outskirts. The study found that these cities have lower mortality rates compared to compact-high density cities.
Cities like Helsinki, Rennes, Aarhus, and Stockholm are classified as green-low density cities. These sprawled cities have a large surface area size with a low population density. Despite moderate availability of pedestrian areas and high availability of cycleways and natural green spaces, they require longer commutes and are less energy efficient. As a result, they have the highest carbon footprint per capita among the four city types.
The study highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with different urban configurations in Europe. While compact cities are seen as the optimal theoretical model for healthier and more sustainable cities, they still face issues such as high air pollution levels and a lack of green spaces. On the other hand, green-low density cities have lower mortality rates and air pollution levels but pose challenges in terms of longer commutes and energy efficiency.
Moving forward, researchers suggest leveraging the potential of compact cities through innovative models like superblocks and low-traffic neighborhoods. By incorporating nature-based solutions such as planting trees and green roofs, cities can reduce car dependency and shift towards more sustainable modes of transportation. However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and each city must conduct specific studies to design an optimal model that considers its unique characteristics in terms of health, environment, and carbon footprint.
The urban configuration of cities in Europe plays a significant role in determining human health, environmental quality, and carbon footprint. While compact cities may still hold promise for the future, they also face important challenges that need to be addressed. By embracing innovative solutions and taking into account the specific characteristics of each city, Europe can work towards creating healthier, more sustainable urban environments for all residents.
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