Journal of Urban Environmental Management

Abstract This study analyzes and prioritizes urban livability indicators with an emphasis on social welfare, and proposes a comprehensive framework for evaluating urban quality of life. Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model, 46 livability indicators across five main domains—security, health, economy, environment, and culture—were examined. The results show that urban security (0.073), public health and disease prevention (0.064), and access to religious sites (0.065) are among the most influential factors affecting social welfare. These indicators play a central role in meeting the basic needs of citizens and contribute to improving quality of life. In contrast, indicators such as waste management and recycling (0.006) and sustainable transportation policies (0.006) rank lower in priority but remain essential for long-term sustainable urban development. The findings also highlight implementation challenges related to improving high-priority indicators, including resource limitations, institutional misalignment, and insufficient public awareness. However, opportunities such as leveraging new technologies and encouraging private sector participation can help enhance livability indicators. In addition to confirming the close relationship between livability indicators and social welfare, this study provides practical tools for urban policy-making and sustainable development. Its findings assist urban policymakers in adopting a balanced approach that addresses both short-term needs and long-term goals, thereby promoting livability and social equity.

Abstract In recent decades, the revitalization of urban spaces through pedestrian-oriented strategies has been widely recognized as a key approach to enhancing urban livability and fostering social vitality. However, a scientific understanding of the underlying socio-cultural mechanisms influencing such spaces remains underdeveloped. This study aims to analyze the socio-cultural impacts of the Tarbiat Pedestrian Street in Tabriz using structural equation modeling (SEM). The research is applied in nature and employs a quantitative approach. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire administered to a sample of 384 pedestrian users, selected via simple random sampling. Data analysis was conducted using AMOS software. Composite reliability and Cronbach’s alpha values for all constructs exceeded 0.70, and AVE values confirmed acceptable convergent validity of the measurement model. Factor loading analysis indicated that all indicators had acceptable loadings (above 0.69). In the structural model, cultural identity, social security, and cultural vitality showed significant and positive effects on social interaction (with path coefficients of 0.59, 0.46, and 0.52, respectively). Furthermore, social interaction—acting as a mediating variable—had a direct impact on perceived spatial quality with a path coefficient of 0.67. The coefficient of determination was 0.64 for social interaction and 0.54 for spatial quality. The findings reveal that the quality of the Tarbiat pedestrian space is strongly shaped by cultural and social dynamics, and that redefining this space as an interactive and human-centered environment can significantly contribute to enriching the urban lived experience.

Abstract Traditional neighborhoods, as part of the cultural and historical heritage of cities, face challenges in maintaining identity, livability quality, and compatibility with modern needs. The Charndab neighborhood of Tabriz is no exception and requires sustainable development considering various dimensions of sustainability. This study aims to examine the impact of sustainability dimensions (physical, environmental, social, and economic) on the development of Charndab neighborhood with an environmental sustainability approach. The research method is descriptive-analytical, utilizing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and SmartPLS software. The statistical population included experts and specialists in the fields of architecture, urban planning, environmental studies, and urban development, with data collected through a standardized 30-item Likert-scale questionnaire. The findings of the research indicate that physical sustainability has the greatest impact on the development of the neighborhood, with a path coefficient of 0.45, emphasizing the revitalization of deteriorated spaces and climatic design. Environmental sustainability, with a path coefficient of 0.38, emphasizes pollution reduction and natural resource management. Social sustainability, with a path coefficient of 0.32, strengthens local cohesion and community participation. Economic sustainability, with a path coefficient of 0.29, supports local businesses and attracts investment. The results show that the sustainable development of Charndab neighborhood requires simultaneous attention to all dimensions of sustainability. This research provides a practical model for the regeneration of traditional neighborhoods while preserving cultural values and enhancing the quality of life.

Abstract Abstract:
In recent decades, the integration of the concepts of learning cities and smart cities has emerged as an innovative approach for achieving environmental sustainability in urban governance. However, empirical evidence from urban contexts Iran-particularly in medium-sized metropolitan areas such as Ardabil—reveals functional gap in leveraging urban learning capacities and smart technologies to improve environmental quality. This study aims empirically examine the relationship between learning city indicators and environmental sustainability within the framework of smart city development. The research is quantitative and applied in nature. The statistical population consists of subject-related experts and professionals residing in Ardabil. The sample size, determined based on the number of measurable items, was 273 individuals. Data collection was conducted using a researcher-designed questionnaire, the validity (face, convergent, and discriminant) and reliability of which were confirmed through SmartPLS software. The results of confirmatory factor analysis and path analysis indicated that learning city indicators have a positive and significant effect smart city development, which in turn positively influences environmental sustainability. The highest path coefficient was between learning cities and smart city development (0.78), followed by smart city development and environmental sustainability (0.73). The Q² values for endogenous variables were greater than zero, indicating the model’s predictive power, and low VIF values confirmed the absence of multicollinearity. Indicators such as environmental education, lifelong learning, and data-driven governance showed the highest factor loadings. Based on these findings, strengthening educational infrastructure, implementing environmental awareness programs, and expanding smart services in Ardabil can meaningfully contribute to enhancing environmental sustainability.

Abstract This study aims to identify and analyze the components of pre-earthquake crisis management to enhance the urban resilience of Ahram City. Urban resilience, as one of the emerging approaches in crisis management, requires simultaneous attention to physical, economic, social, institutional, and cultural-psychological dimensions. Accordingly, this qualitative research employed thematic analysis. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 30 experts in crisis management, urban planning, local governance, and technical fields. The data were analyzed using MaxQDA software through open, axial, and selective coding. The findings revealed that Ahram City's resilience to earthquakes is influenced by five key components. In the physical-environmental dimension, the quality of housing and transportation infrastructure and the management of natural resources are considered vital prerequisites. Economically, economic diversification and financial support for vulnerable businesses and households play a significant role. In the social dimension, citizen participation, social cohesion, and effective communication networks are crucial. The institutional dimension highlights the importance of transparent governance and inter-institutional coordination. The addition of the cultural-psychological dimension to the research model demonstrated that public perception of earthquake risk, psychological preparedness, acceptance of safety education, and belief in individual and collective efficacy are key factors in enhancing soft resilience. The results emphasize the necessity of adopting an integrated and systemic approach to proactive earthquake crisis management, providing a foundation for developing policies and operational programs for Ahram City and similar urban contexts.

Abstract The increasing plastic pollution and the continous dependence on fossil resources have highlighted the urgent need for the development and utilization of biodegradable plastics. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are promising polymers that have attracted considerable attention due to their complete biodegradability, biocompatibility, and physical properties comparable to those of conventional petrochemical based polymers such as polyethylene. These biopolymers are synthesized and accumulated as intracellular energy and carbon storage in certain groups of microorganisms and accumulate in the cytoplasm. Microalgae, which utilize sunlight as their primary energy source and require minimal nutrients for growth, have attracted attention for PHA production due to their adaptability to cultivation conditions, independence from seasonal variations, rapid growth rates. This article provides a comprehensive review of bioplastics, the conditions and metabolic pathways involved in PHA storage in microalgal cells, as well as the properties and applications of these biodegradable polymers produced by microalgae. The study also addresses commercialization, recent advancements, and associated challenges. Findings indicate that nutrient limitation significantly enhances the biopolymer accumulation in many microalgal species. Moreover, selecting appropriate microalgal strains has been shown to increase biopolymer yields as much as 70% of the dry biomass weight. The high potential of microalgae in producing biodegradable polymers could have a substantial impact on reducing environmental pollution and achieving sustainable development. Although commercial production of PHAs from microalgae still faces certain limitations, projections suggest that PHAs could account for up to 33% of the global polymer market in the future.