Urban Science

35 pages, 9436 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Spatial Data Generating Process Matters: Re-Evaluating Socio-Economic and Demographic Drivers of Environmental Justice of Urban Tree Ecosystem Services in Two Mediterranean Cities

by Ángel Ruiz-Valero, Ángel Enrique Salvo-Tierra and Jaime Francisco Pereña-Ortiz

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 205; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040205 - 6 Apr 2026

Abstract

To advance the Sustainable Development Goals, it is essential to correct imbalances in how the benefits of urban trees are distributed across different demographic and socioeconomic groups. Environmental justice studies have frequently overlooked assumptions regarding the data-generating process and have not considered spatial [...] Read more.

To advance the Sustainable Development Goals, it is essential to correct imbalances in how the benefits of urban trees are distributed across different demographic and socioeconomic groups. Environmental justice studies have frequently overlooked assumptions regarding the data-generating process and have not considered spatial confounding. This oversight potentially misestimates patterns of inequity. This study evaluates the sensitivity of inequity to model assumptions using urban tree inventories from Málaga and Sevilla and Bayesian hierarchical models. City-level differences dominated the inequity patterns, and model specification influenced the magnitude, precision, and credibility of estimated effects, though directionality remained consistent. Patterns were highly consistent across the four ecosystem services, indicating that model assumptions affected all services equivalently. Málaga and Seville exhibited divergent inequity patterns, indicating that local urban context mediates these relationships. In Seville, inequity patterns were inconsistent with the luxury hypothesis and occurred primarily across age-based demographic strata, whereas in Málaga they manifested predominantly along ethnicity, with weaker evidence of income inequities. We advocate for explicitly modeling spatial data-generating processes and comparing conventional versus confounding-mitigated approaches. This city-specific rigor is essential for urban planners to prevent resource misallocation, ensuring that tree-planting strategies address genuine inequities rather than methodological biases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Urban Environment and Sustainability)

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20 pages, 4080 KB

Open AccessArticle

Implications of CMIP6 GCM-Based Climate Variability for Photovoltaic Potential over Four Selected Urban Areas in Central and Southeast Europe During Summer (1971–2020)

by Erzsébet Kristóf and Tímea Kalmár

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 204; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040204 - 5 Apr 2026

Abstract

In the last two decades, the utilization of solar energy has been growing rapidly worldwide, mainly due to the increasing adoption of photovoltaic (PV) systems. Since solar energy is one of the most weather-dependent renewable energy sources, an increasing number of meteorological studies [...] Read more.

In the last two decades, the utilization of solar energy has been growing rapidly worldwide, mainly due to the increasing adoption of photovoltaic (PV) systems. Since solar energy is one of the most weather-dependent renewable energy sources, an increasing number of meteorological studies have focused on PV potential (PV_pot) and its projected changes under global warming. GCM outputs disseminated through the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) are often applied in energy-related urban climate studies, as they can be downscaled either statistically or dynamically. It is essential to evaluate raw (not bias-corrected) GCM data, which helps to determine the uncertainties in the GCM simulations before downscaling. Despite their coarse resolution, some studies even rely directly on the GCM grid cell time series to represent individual locations. Accordingly, this study evaluates 10 CMIP Phase 6 (CMIP6) GCMs with respect to some atmospheric variables (air temperature, solar radiation, and wind speed, which are the primary drivers of PV_pot) in four lowland grid cells representing four major urban areas in Central and Southeast Europe: Belgrade (Serbia), Budapest (Hungary), Vienna (Austria), and Prague (Czechia). The use of solar energy has increased significantly in most of these regions in recent years; however, it remains less studied than in Western Europe. ERA5 reanalysis is used as the reference dataset. We analyzed the boreal summer (JJA) days of three overlapping 30-year time periods: 1971–2000, 1981–2010, and 1991–2020. Our main findings are as follows: GCMs tend to overestimate solar radiation and underestimate maximum near-surface air temperature relative to ERA5 in all time periods and in all the four urban areas, which leads to a significant overestimation of the number of JJA days with high PV_pot (PV_pot,₉₀). PV_pot,₉₀ is increasing from 1971–2000 to 1991–2020 in the vast majority of GCMs, in all the four regions. EC-Earth3 and its different configurations (EC-Earth3-Veg, EC-Earth3-CC) are considered the most accurate GCMs relative to ERA5. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integration of Renewable Energy Technologies for Sustainable and Smart Cities)

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16 pages, 364 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Practices for Building Construction in New Zealand

by Mahmoud Bader, Krishanu Roy, Terri-Ann Berry and Kim de Graaf

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040203 - 5 Apr 2026

Abstract

Globally, sustainability indicators have become increasingly important in the building construction sector. While contractors play a critical role in advancing sustainability during the construction phase, there is limited guidance on the specific practices they should adopt. This study aims to address that gap [...] Read more.

Globally, sustainability indicators have become increasingly important in the building construction sector. While contractors play a critical role in advancing sustainability during the construction phase, there is limited guidance on the specific practices they should adopt. This study aims to address that gap by identifying sustainable practices relevant to building construction and developing an initial set of practical guidelines to support contractors in enhancing their sustainability performance. Based on a literature review and the author’s experiences in New Zealand, a list of 49 sustainable practices for building construction has been developed, addressing the three pillars of sustainability: environmental, economic, and social. The research focuses on the building construction phase and emphasises contractor-level key implementation challenges, such as regulatory barriers and the need for enhanced waste management during construction. The proposed list of practices can serve as a valuable tool to guide contractors’ commitment to sustainability and may inform contractor selection for future tender projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circular Economy Strategies for Sustainable Urban Development: Innovations in Waste Management and Building Materials)

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27 pages, 326 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Global South–North Dichotomy in Deep Decarbonization Strategy at the Local Level

by Bayode Akomolafe, Raphael Ayambire and Amelia Clarke

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040202 - 4 Apr 2026

Abstract

Deep decarbonization strategies at the local level have been extensively documented for cities in the Global North, yet little is known about how cities in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) pursue climate mitigation amid infrastructure constraints, limited fiscal autonomy, and pressing developmental needs. Local governments [...] Read more.

Deep decarbonization strategies at the local level have been extensively documented for cities in the Global North, yet little is known about how cities in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) pursue climate mitigation amid infrastructure constraints, limited fiscal autonomy, and pressing developmental needs. Local governments worldwide are recognized as critical actors in addressing urban greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, SSA cities’ decarbonization efforts remain underexplored in academic and policy discourse, despite the region’s acute climate vulnerability and rapid urbanization. However, SSA cities’ decarbonization efforts remain underexplored in academic and policy discourse, despite the region’s acute climate vulnerability and rapid urbanization. This study examines how deep decarbonization pathways in four leading SSA cities (Accra, Addis Ababa, Lagos, and Nairobi) compare with those in the Global North. Using qualitative methods including document analysis and semi-structured interviews, we examine the technical pathways, institutional strategies, governance mechanisms, and actors involved in these cities’ climate mitigation efforts. Our findings reveal that while SSA cities pursue similar technical priorities to Global North cities (renewable energy, building efficiency, sustainable transport), their approaches diverge significantly in implementation. SSA cities innovate through decentralized waste-to-energy systems adapted to informal contexts, rely heavily on donor funding rather than municipal bonds, and uniquely leverage traditional institutions for community engagement. Governance structures are predominantly top-down and centralized, contrasting with the polycentric, multi-level governance observed in the Global North. These findings demonstrate that deep decarbonization in SSA must be reconceptualized not only as a form of climate mitigation but as an integrated strategy that addresses infrastructure gaps and building institutional capacity. This research contributes new knowledge on urban climate governance in developing regions and offers transferable lessons for cities facing similar constraints. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Urban Sustainability and Well-Being in Developing Regions Facing Climate Change Impacts and Economic Constraints)

19 pages, 589 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Body Underground: A Biological Framework for Infrastructure Health, Regulation and Resilience

by Priscilla Nelson and Richard Little

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 201; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040201 - 4 Apr 2026

Abstract

Underground infrastructure systems are typically managed as discrete technical assets rather than as integrated, adaptive systems. This paper develops the Body Underground framework, a structured biological analogy that synthesizes prior clinical and epidemiological metaphors into a multiscale conceptual model linking materials, facilities, networks, [...] Read more.

Underground infrastructure systems are typically managed as discrete technical assets rather than as integrated, adaptive systems. This paper develops the Body Underground framework, a structured biological analogy that synthesizes prior clinical and epidemiological metaphors into a multiscale conceptual model linking materials, facilities, networks, and governance. Building on Little’s clinical framing of infrastructure health and Bardet and Little’s epidemiological analysis of network failure clustering, the framework extends biological interpretation to anatomical, physiological, and homeostatic scales. The approach maps structural, hydraulic, sensing, protective, and regulatory functions to functional equivalents in living systems using explicit criteria of feedback, regulation, and measurability. The central objective of the study is to determine whether biological regulatory concepts—particularly homeostasis and hierarchical organization—can provide a coherent interpretive structure for understanding infrastructure health across material, facility, network, and governance scales. The resulting framework reframes resilience as dynamic regulatory balance rather than static robustness alone. It clarifies the methodological basis for constructing biological–infrastructure analogies, identifies measurable “vital signs” for infrastructure health, and outlines pathways toward operational translation through integrated monitoring and governance feedback. While conceptual in nature, the framework provides a structured synthesis linking material science, infrastructure engineering, systems resilience theory, and policy coordination. By organizing resilience concepts through cross-scale regulatory logic, the Body Underground model offers a coherent structure for integrating monitoring, diagnosis, and governance in the proactive management of underground infrastructure systems. Full article

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26 pages, 1489 KB

Open AccessArticle

Urban Demographic Risks and Sustainability: A Composite Index Approach to Population Change, Health, and Migration in Armenia

by Tatevik Mkrtchyan, Ani Khachatryan and Svetlana Ratner

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 200; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040200 - 3 Apr 2026

Abstract

Urban demographic dynamics—including migration, aging, fertility change, and population redistribution—are central to sustainable urban development, urban resilience, and long-term well-being. In many small and transition economies, rapid urbanization combined with sustained emigration and population aging poses significant challenges for urban planning, labor markets, [...] Read more.

Urban demographic dynamics—including migration, aging, fertility change, and population redistribution—are central to sustainable urban development, urban resilience, and long-term well-being. In many small and transition economies, rapid urbanization combined with sustained emigration and population aging poses significant challenges for urban planning, labor markets, housing systems, and public services. The purpose of the paper is to evaluate urban sustainability-related demographic risks by a composite index and assess long-term demographic dynamics with different trajectories of migration flows and fertility. Since migration flows are more intense among urban population, depopulation is very high in peripheral rural areas, and urbanization is about 64% in Armenia, the results of the research will inform national and urban policy makers to reshape policy frameworks to enhance long-term urban resilience. This study develops a demographic threat index (DTI) to assess demographic risks relevant to urban sustainability in Armenia over the period 2000–2023. The index integrates 20 indicators grouped into three pillars—population change, population health, and socio-economic vulnerability—with indicator weights derived using principal component analysis (PCA). The results reveal a persistent increase in demographic risks, marked by accelerated population aging, declining youth cohorts, and rising socio-economic vulnerability, particularly in urban contexts. A decomposition of population change demonstrates that net migration has been the dominant driver of demographic dynamics, outweighing the combined effects of fertility and mortality. Scenario-based population projections further indicate that even optimistic increases in fertility are insufficient to stabilize population trajectories without sustained positive migration. By linking demographic security to urbanization, migration, and socio-economic vulnerability, the study highlights the importance of integrated urban and demographic policy frameworks. The proposed index offers a replicable tool for evaluating demographic risks in countries facing similar urban and demographic transitions and provides evidence-based insights for urban planning, migration management, and sustainable city strategies. Full article

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26 pages, 4951 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Exploratory Application of Low-Cost Drone Imagery and an Image Analysis Model to Evaluate Post-Disaster Recovery Progress for Planning Equitable Housing Recoveries Through Dynamic Funding Allocation

by Daniel V. Perrucci, German C. Buitrago, Brady McKay, Kathleen Short and Christopher Santos

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040199 - 3 Apr 2026

Abstract

After major disruptive events, particularly natural and human-made disasters, community leaders face the challenge of rebuilding societal infrastructure and managing the allocation of funds, which can affect the duration of recovery periods. Decision-makers must quickly determine how to allocate financial resources while minimizing [...] Read more.

After major disruptive events, particularly natural and human-made disasters, community leaders face the challenge of rebuilding societal infrastructure and managing the allocation of funds, which can affect the duration of recovery periods. Decision-makers must quickly determine how to allocate financial resources while minimizing population distress. Conventional methods of assessing damage and evaluating relief requirements fall short of meeting the urgent recovery needs after a disaster, potentially leading to negative effects on communities, such as involuntary relocation and neighborhood gentrification. The study evaluates current methods and technologies to propose a new approach that leverages low-cost consumer drones and modern image analysis techniques to support initial damage assessments and track recovery progress, thereby promoting the dynamic allocation of limited resources. Using low-cost drone imagery enables rapid, cost-effective data collection and dynamic analysis through iterative reviews during the disaster response and recovery phases that can adjust baseline disaster funding allocations. The study investigates the potential of temporary blue tarp roofs (“blue roofs”) as a metric for recovery progress during the 2020 tornado in Middle Tennessee and conducts an R-squared and error analysis. The goal of this research is to evaluate an affordable and efficient data analysis method (e.g., modern image analysis; artificial intelligence; low-cost drones) that can improve post-disaster resource allocation and inform decision-making for governmental and planning officials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Resilient Affordable Housing in Architecture Design and Urban Plans)

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25 pages, 3517 KB

Open AccessArticle

Local-Scale Assessment of Urban Resilience and the Role of Nature-Based Solutions and Stormwater Modelling

by Rita Salgado Brito, Maria Adriana Cardoso, Catarina Jorge, Maria do Céu Almeida, Pedro Teixeira and Maria João Telhado

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 198; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040198 - 3 Apr 2026

Abstract

Although urban resilience is a complex concept, several initiatives have made it more tangible. Urban public authorities and policymakers are of utmost importance, as they influence multiple neighbourhoods, stakeholders and aspects of urban resilience. Nevertheless, the role of individual facilities—such as sports fields—should [...] Read more.

Although urban resilience is a complex concept, several initiatives have made it more tangible. Urban public authorities and policymakers are of utmost importance, as they influence multiple neighbourhoods, stakeholders and aspects of urban resilience. Nevertheless, the role of individual facilities—such as sports fields—should not be overlooked. While their impacts are smaller in scale, they can significantly enhance local resilience and serve as inspirational pilots for broader initiatives. To assess resilience at the facility scale, an existing assessment framework was adapted, aligned with ESG (environmental, social and governance) criteria and climate action pillars and valuing ecosystem services. In the sports field case study, stormwater was reframed from a burden into a resource and integrated with other scheduled resilience-enhancing interventions: water conservation, installation of photovoltaic panels, enhanced tree shading, and circularity through sports equipment reuse. Together, these interventions strengthen urban sustainability, resilience, and climate adaptation while delivering ecological and social benefits. The stormwater drainage system was modelled to simulate naturalization actions. The assessment framework is described, and its application at both neighbourhood and facility scales is discussed. Comparisons between the existing and improved situations show clear resilience gains, and opportunities for extending these measures to the city scale are explored. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Water Resources Assessment and Environmental Governance)

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19 pages, 759 KB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Wood Biomass Ash Received from Energy Production Process: Preliminary Assessment of Risk and Valorization Potential for Agricultural and Environmental Applications

by Abdulmannan Rouhani, Valentina Pidlisnyuk, Andrzej Cezary Żołnowski, Elżbieta Rolka, Sylvie Kříženecká and Karim Suhail Al Souki

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 197; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040197 - 3 Apr 2026

Abstract

Wood biomass ash (WBA) from thermal power plants is often landfilled despite its potential as a secondary raw material. This study adopts a circular economy perspective to assess the physicochemical properties, valorization potential, and environmental risks of WBA, aiming to support its use [...] Read more.

Wood biomass ash (WBA) from thermal power plants is often landfilled despite its potential as a secondary raw material. This study adopts a circular economy perspective to assess the physicochemical properties, valorization potential, and environmental risks of WBA, aiming to support its use in agriculture and environmental management. Comprehensive characterization included pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), proximate and elemental composition, and selected organic contaminants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The WBA exhibited a strongly alkaline pH (10.55), moderate CEC (4.36 cmol kg⁻¹), and high ash content (78.32%), with lower nutrient content than other biomass ashes. Major elements included Ca (6.84%), K (2.90%), and Si (3.19%), while nitrogen was absent. Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) such as As, Cd, and Ni were below detection limits; Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn remained within most regulatory thresholds, although Zn exceeded some limits. ΣPAHs were low (0.05 mg·kg⁻¹), indicating minimal environmental concern. Despite reduced nutrient richness, the ash demonstrated suitability as a liming agent and supplementary nutrient source, provided that Zn levels are managed and nitrogen is supplemented. These results support the redirection of WBA from disposal to beneficial use, advancing circular economy goals and contributing to more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circular Economy Strategies for Sustainable Urban Development: Innovations in Waste Management and Building Materials)

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25 pages, 810 KB

Open AccessArticle

Smart Adaptation and Seasonal Urban Exodus: A Survey-Based Approach to Climate-Resilient Cities

by Adriana Olteanu, Silvia Oana Anton and Radu Nicolae Pietraru

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 196; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040196 - 3 Apr 2026

Abstract

As global temperatures rise, cities struggle with heat stress and the limitations of traditional cooling strategies. This study introduces “seasonal urban exodus”—temporarily relocating urban residents to cooler areas during summer—as a behavioral climate adaptation strategy driven by the need for thermal comfort. To [...] Read more.

As global temperatures rise, cities struggle with heat stress and the limitations of traditional cooling strategies. This study introduces “seasonal urban exodus”—temporarily relocating urban residents to cooler areas during summer—as a behavioral climate adaptation strategy driven by the need for thermal comfort. To assess social feasibility, a survey was conducted among 163 urban residents in Romania. The dataset was analyzed using linear regression and machine learning algorithms (Random Forest and K-Means clustering). The results show that 77.9% of respondents would relocate for 1–2 months if they had adequate destination infrastructure, while a 2 °C temperature increase would cause 46% to migrate temporarily. Predictive modeling identified barriers related to heat (p = 0.009) and transportation (p = 0.016) as the most significant predictors of relocation intention. These results suggest that seasonal mobility is a viable social response to urban heat islands. However, while this adaptation strategy improves individual thermal comfort, further interdisciplinary research—including life-cycle assessments, travel emission calculations, and the evaluation of rural energy systems—is absolutely necessary to determine the net carbon balance and environmental viability of these relocation patterns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Shaping the Equitable Future of Urban Living: Exploring Well-Being and New Mobility in Low-Carbon Cities)

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16 pages, 456 KB

Open AccessArticle

Over the Top or Out of Reach? Cross-Border Cooperation in the Alpine Region

by Giuseppe De Luca and Matteo Landoni

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 195; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040195 - 2 Apr 2026

Abstract

This article presents an analysis of cross-border cooperation over the mountains. This research stems from a European project that investigated the difficulties and opportunities to form research and innovation (R&I) partnerships in the European Alps, a geographically challenging yet highly developed region bordering [...] Read more.

This article presents an analysis of cross-border cooperation over the mountains. This research stems from a European project that investigated the difficulties and opportunities to form research and innovation (R&I) partnerships in the European Alps, a geographically challenging yet highly developed region bordering seven countries at the heart of Europe. The investigation highlights the role of orchestrator platforms for coordinating and matching partners in peripheral and complex areas such as the Alps, where the characteristics of a border region combine with small and peripheral urban areas. The analysis combines second-hand studies with surveys and interviews of 114 participants in innovative partnership projects from 2019 to 2022. The evidence highlights the challenges in forming effective partnerships and presents policy proposals for managing mountain entrepreneurial ecosystems. This research contributes by providing policy prescriptions that point to digital platforms for R&I collaborations in a disadvantaged and poorly explored context, such as the smaller urban areas in the Alps. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Planning in Cross-Border Cooperation)

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15 pages, 2004 KB

Open AccessArticle

Commercial Gentrification in a Tourist Town in Mallorca

by Joan Rossello-Geli

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040194 - 2 Apr 2026

Abstract

Sóller, a highly touristic town in Mallorca, has been affected by gentrification problems related to the tourism industry. Recently, another gentrification process has appeared, affecting the retail fabric and leading to the disappearance of traditional locally owned shops and their substitution with tourist-focused [...] Read more.

Sóller, a highly touristic town in Mallorca, has been affected by gentrification problems related to the tourism industry. Recently, another gentrification process has appeared, affecting the retail fabric and leading to the disappearance of traditional locally owned shops and their substitution with tourist-focused stores. Using data from different sources, such as the City Hall documentary data, the Commerce Association archives and Google Street View images, this research highlights the gentrification process affecting two of the main commercial areas of the town. The results confirm that a commercial gentrification process, already identified in large cities such as Barcelona or Venice, can also affect medium-sized towns, creating a retail mutation that impacts local residents and their shopping capabilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Urban Economy and Industry)

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21 pages, 2178 KB

Open AccessReview

GeoAI and Multimodal Geospatial Data Fusion for Inclusive Urban Mobility: Methods, Applications, and Future Directions

by Atakilti Kiros, Yuri Ribakov, Israel Klein and Achituv Cohen

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 193; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040193 - 2 Apr 2026

Abstract

Urban mobility is a central challenge for sustainable and inclusive cities, as climate change, congestion, and spatial inequality increasingly reveal mobility patterns as expressions of deeper social and spatial structures. Inclusive urban mobility examines whether transport systems equitably support the everyday movements and [...] Read more.

Urban mobility is a central challenge for sustainable and inclusive cities, as climate change, congestion, and spatial inequality increasingly reveal mobility patterns as expressions of deeper social and spatial structures. Inclusive urban mobility examines whether transport systems equitably support the everyday movements and accessibility needs of historically marginalized and underserved populations. The integration of artificial intelligence with geographic information science, combined with multimodal geospatial data fusion, provides powerful tools to diagnose and address these disparities by integrating heterogeneous data sources such as satellite imagery, GPS trajectories, transit records, volunteered geographic information, and social sensing data into scalable, high-resolution urban mobility analytics. This paper presents a systematic survey of recent GeoAI studies that fuse multiple geospatial data modalities for key urban mobility tasks, including accessibility mapping, demand forecasting, and origin–destination flow prediction, with particular emphasis on inclusive and equity-oriented applications. The review examines 18 multimodal GeoAI studies identified through a PRISMA-ScR screening process from 57 candidate publications between 2019 and 2025. The survey synthesizes methodological trends across data-, feature-, and decision-level fusion strategies, highlights the growing use of deep learning architectures, and examines emerging techniques such as knowledge graphs, federated learning, and explainable AI that support equity-relevant insights across diverse urban contexts. Building on this synthesis, the review identifies persistent gaps in population coverage, multimodal integration, equity optimization, explainability, validation, and governance, which currently constrain the inclusiveness and robustness of GeoAI applications in urban mobility research. To address these challenges, the paper proposes a structured research roadmap linking these gaps to concrete methodological and governance directions including equity-aware loss functions, adaptive multimodal fusion pipelines, participatory and human-in-the-loop workflows, and urban data trusts to better align multimodal GeoAI with the goals of inclusive, just, and sustainable urban mobility systems. Full article

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23 pages, 10267 KB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Leucaena leucocephala in Urban Landscapes Using Street-Level Images and Deep Learning

by Danielle Elis Garcia Furuya, Gleison Marrafon, Eduardo Lopes de Lemos, Michelle Tais Garcia Furuya, Robson Diego Silva Gonçalves, Wesley Nunes Gonçalves, José Marcato Junior, Édson Luis Bolfe, Veraldo Liesenberg, Lucas Prado Osco and Ana Paula Marques Ramos

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040192 - 2 Apr 2026

Abstract

Mapping urban tree species supports green infrastructure planning. An essential issue refers to the monitoring of exotic species that may become invasive. Street-level imagery provides a complementary perspective to aerial images for species identification that are difficult to distinguish from above. In this [...] Read more.

Mapping urban tree species supports green infrastructure planning. An essential issue refers to the monitoring of exotic species that may become invasive. Street-level imagery provides a complementary perspective to aerial images for species identification that are difficult to distinguish from above. In this context, our study aimed to evaluate deep learning-based object detection and image segmentation approaches to identify a potentially invasive tree species known as Leucaena leucocephala in an urban environment in Brazil, using 422 street-level images acquired from Google Street View (SV) and mobile phones (MPs). Object detection models (YOLOv8 and DETR) and a foundation segmentation model (SAM, zero-shot) were applied to assess how deep learning paradigms perform under heterogeneous urban imaging conditions. YOLOv8 achieved detection performance with mAP50 above 0.83 and recall up to 0.76. DETR showed domain sensitivity, with mAP50 of 0.45 in SV images and 0.84 in MP imagery. For segmentation, SAM zero-shot achieved 0.92 accuracy and 0.93 F1-score in SV images, decreasing to 0.63 accuracy and 0.66 F1-score in MP images. Overall, this study demonstrates that combining detection and segmentation approaches provides complementary information for urban vegetation monitoring, supporting decision-making related to invasive species management and sustainable urban landscape planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnology in Urban Landscape Studies)

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27 pages, 13297 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Temperature on Visitation Rate, Thermal Sensation, and Satisfaction Levels in Urban Parks in a Hot Summer

by Rana Elnaklah, Amit Kant Kaushik and Badr Saad Alotaibi

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040191 - 1 Apr 2026

Abstract

The ongoing rise in temperatures due to climate change is one of the most critical considerations in the design of outdoor recreational spaces. Thermal conditions can affect people’s visitation patterns, satisfaction, health and well-being. In many developing countries, including Jordan, rapid urbanisation often [...] Read more.

The ongoing rise in temperatures due to climate change is one of the most critical considerations in the design of outdoor recreational spaces. Thermal conditions can affect people’s visitation patterns, satisfaction, health and well-being. In many developing countries, including Jordan, rapid urbanisation often occurs without sufficient planning for public outdoor spaces, thereby diminishing their quality. This study is the first to investigate the effects of temperature on visitor patterns and user satisfaction in Jordanian urban parks. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining continuous measurements of outdoor temperature (Ta) and relative humidity (Rh) with a survey assessing users’ thermal sensation, satisfaction, and preferences across six urban parks in Amman, Jordan. Data were collected from 718 respondents in summer 2025. Visitation records for the surveyed parks were also obtained from local authorities for the monitored period. The results show that the mean Ta exceeded 30 °C in all surveyed parks during the monitoring period, with peak readings exceeding 41 °C. This resulted in a warm-to-hot thermal sensation among participants, with many preferring cooler conditions. A significant inverse relationship between temperature and park visitation rates (R² = 0.67, p = 0.001) was observed, with a 1 °C increase in outdoor temperature associated with approximately a 2.03 visitor decrease. Participants’ satisfaction was higher in parks with adequate amenities, such as shading, disability access, and green zones, than in parks with fewer amenities (p = 0.01, d = 0.63). The most reported areas for improvement included facilities, shaded seating areas, and perceived safety. The findings highlight the importance of considering outdoor thermal conditions when designing urban parks, as they shape public outdoor activity patterns, particularly in hot climates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Urban Environment and Sustainability)

16 pages, 229 KB

Open AccessArticle

Financialized Loss: The Hidden Frontier of Housing Financialization

by Beibei Zhang, Kimihiro Hino and Hayato Nishi

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 190; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040190 - 1 Apr 2026

Abstract

Financial channels only redistribute existing wealth rather than generating new wealth. Consequently, financialized gains for one person inevitably mean losses for others. However, the prevailing literature on housing financialization often emphasizes how investors earn excessive profits while neglecting how ordinary households bear corresponding [...] Read more.

Financial channels only redistribute existing wealth rather than generating new wealth. Consequently, financialized gains for one person inevitably mean losses for others. However, the prevailing literature on housing financialization often emphasizes how investors earn excessive profits while neglecting how ordinary households bear corresponding losses. This study seeks to initiate a conceptual and empirical exploration of financialized loss within housing consumption. This study first clarifies what constitutes these losses. It then employs a comparative case study of Japan and Canada to highlight how certain housing characteristics are linked to major financialized losses for housing consumers. The findings can guide the design of more targeted housing policies to reduce housing consumers’ losses and, thereby, improve housing affordability for ordinary households. Ultimately, this study lays the groundwork for a new research agenda focused on financialized loss in housing consumption, thereby providing a novel perspective for understanding housing financialization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Urban Geography and Sustainable Regional Planning Strategies)

21 pages, 5158 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploratory Analysis of the Migrant Population Distribution in Medium-Sized Cities: A Case Study of Aalborg and Odense

by Irma Kveladze and Henning Sten Hansen

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040189 - 1 Apr 2026

Abstract

Mobility of the migrant population plays a crucial role in shaping urban spaces, neighbourhood change and socio-economic development. While extensive research has been conducted on the spatio-temporal dynamics of migration in large metropolitan areas, there remains a notable lack of understanding of the [...] Read more.

Mobility of the migrant population plays a crucial role in shaping urban spaces, neighbourhood change and socio-economic development. While extensive research has been conducted on the spatio-temporal dynamics of migration in large metropolitan areas, there remains a notable lack of understanding of the impact of migration on medium-sized cities, on their internal spatial distribution and socio-spatial differentiation. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the urban settlement patterns of migrants in two medium-sized Danish cities: Aalborg and Odense. The research explores the intra-urban spatial distribution of various migrant groups, considering their origins and residential preferences. Additionally, it analyses the social and structural pull-factor proxies that influence these patterns, including urban housing market dynamics and access to amenities and services. Through an exploratory spatial analysis and data visualisation approach, this study reveals detailed insights into the determinants of migrant settlement. The findings indicate a significant intra-urban concentration of certain migrant groups, especially in the city centres, which often correspond to areas with a higher concentration of essential amenities. By focusing on mid-sized cities and adopting a case-based, comparative methodology through an extensive data visualisation approach, this research enhances urban science knowledge by illuminating underexplored urban contexts and providing a fresh view on the interplay between migration, urban development and spatial planning in medium-sized cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Urban Planning and Design)

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15 pages, 2788 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Distribution Patterns and Driving Mechanisms of Urban Plant Diversity in Green Building Demonstration and Non-Demonstration Areas of Jinan, China

by Haili Zhang, Zongshan Zhao, Zongjin Zhao, Mir Muhammad Nizamani, Xiuyu Bian and Xiujun Liu

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040188 - 1 Apr 2026

Abstract

Urban street greenery plays a crucial role in enhancing biodiversity, environmental quality, and human well-being. However, how different street greening strategies shape urban plant diversity across functional urban contexts remains insufficiently understood. Taking Jinan, a rapidly urbanizing city in China, as a case [...] Read more.

Urban street greenery plays a crucial role in enhancing biodiversity, environmental quality, and human well-being. However, how different street greening strategies shape urban plant diversity across functional urban contexts remains insufficiently understood. Taking Jinan, a rapidly urbanizing city in China, as a case study, this research investigates the spatial patterns, compositional differences, and driving mechanisms of plant diversity between Green Streets (GS) and Non-Green Streets (NGS) across various Urban Functional Units (UFUs). A 1 km × 1 km grid was used to delineate UFUs, combined with field-based plant surveys, linear regression analyses, and the public space assessment framework of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11.7.1. Results indicate that plant diversity is strongly dependent on urban functional types, with higher species richness observed in residential and recreation/leisure districts, and lower levels in industrial, commercial, and transportation districts. The ecological effects of GS exhibit clear context dependence, being more pronounced in residential, educational, and public service areas, but limited in commercial and industrial zones. NGS recorded a significantly higher total number of plant species (346) than GS (116), with NGS dominated by native spontaneous species and GS characterized by introduced cultivated plants, reflecting the filtering effects of different management intensities. Management variables, particularly watering (positive) and fertilization frequency (negative), is primarily positively associated with plant diversity in GS, whereas diversity in NGS is more closely associated with socio-economic and spatial factors such as UFU area and housing prices. Furthermore, the current SDG 11.7.1 indicator emphasizes the quantity and accessibility of public spaces but insufficiently captures their ecological quality. This study highlights the need to integrate biodiversity and vegetation structural complexity into public space assessments, providing scientific support for quality-oriented urban green infrastructure planning and sustainable urban development. Full article

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26 pages, 1889 KB

Open AccessArticle

Developing and Validating Heating Energy Consumption Models for Schools in Osijek-Baranja County, Croatia

by Hana Begić Juričić, Hrvoje Krstić and Dino Obradović

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(4), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10040187 - 1 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study develops and validates heating energy consumption models for school buildings in Osijek-Baranja County in Croatia, integrating an overview of the legal framework, a review of heating energy consumption in schools, and approaches to predicting consumption. Three models, Multiple linear regression (MLR), [...] Read more.

This study develops and validates heating energy consumption models for school buildings in Osijek-Baranja County in Croatia, integrating an overview of the legal framework, a review of heating energy consumption in schools, and approaches to predicting consumption. Three models, Multiple linear regression (MLR), Artificial neural networks (ANN), and Random forest (RF), were tested using training and validation datasets. Although ANN and RF achieved higher accuracy during training, their complexity and computational demands reduce their suitability for everyday use in schools. MLR, despite slightly lower accuracy (R² = 0.897 on validation), proved to be the most practical due to its simplicity, transparency, and minimal resource requirements. Additional testing on schools in eastern Croatia confirmed its strong performance, with high R² and low MAPE values, reflecting the uniformity of heating systems that predominantly rely on gas or district heating. In contrast, prediction accuracy decreases in coastal regions where diverse fuels such as electricity or heating oil are used, indicating the need for region-specific models. Overall, the findings show that MLR is the most applicable model for widespread implementation, while ANN and RF offer potential for specialized cases or future enhancement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urban Futures Through Building Energy Efficiency: Integrating Innovations and Strategies)

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