In the heart of Algiers, a city where history and modernity collide, a groundbreaking study is reshaping our understanding of urban pollution. Loubna Khellaf, a researcher from the University of Blida, has delved into the intricate world of canyon streets, those narrow urban corridors that can trap pollutants and exacerbate health issues. Her work, published in the Journal of Design for Resilience in Architecture and Planning, offers a fresh perspective on how to mitigate pollution in dense urban environments, with significant implications for the energy sector.
Khellaf’s research focuses on the morpho-climatic characteristics of canyon streets—those urban forms that can turn into pollution hotspots. “Canyon streets are ubiquitous in Algiers, particularly in the medieval and colonial districts,” Khellaf explains. “These streets can act like chimneys, trapping pollutants and creating unhealthy living conditions.” The study zeroes in on two prominent streets: LARBI BEN M’HIDI and MOHAMED AZOUZI. The findings are stark: LARBI BEN M’HIDI Street shows higher pollution levels due to its aspect ratio and tree density, which affect wind behavior and pollutant dispersion.
The CODASC database, a comprehensive tool developed by Khellaf, plays a pivotal role in this research. It contains data on normalized average pollutant concentrations, factoring in variables like aspect ratio, wind direction, tree density, and crown porosity. This database allows urban planners to simulate different scenarios and design streets that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally sustainable.
For the energy sector, the implications are profound. As cities worldwide grapple with air quality issues, understanding how urban design can mitigate pollution is crucial. “By optimizing the design of canyon streets, we can reduce the need for energy-intensive air purification systems,” Khellaf notes. “This not only cuts down on energy costs but also contributes to a healthier urban environment.”
The study’s findings could revolutionize urban planning in Algiers and beyond. By providing a strategic guide for pollution mitigation, Khellaf’s research offers a blueprint for sustainable urban development. Urban planners can use this data to design streets that promote better ventilation, reduce pollutant retention, and ultimately, improve the quality of life for residents.
As cities continue to grow and densify, the need for resilient urban design becomes ever more pressing. Khellaf’s work, published in the Journal of Design for Resilience in Architecture and Planning, is a step in the right direction. It underscores the importance of integrating environmental considerations into urban planning, paving the way for a future where cities are not just places to live, but places to thrive. The energy sector, in particular, stands to benefit from these insights, as the push for sustainable and efficient urban environments gains momentum.
