In the heart of Southeast Asia’s urban sprawl, a critical question emerges: how can cities balance the relentless march of infrastructure development with the need for green spaces and sustainable living? A recent study led by Naththaphat Panyangam from the Urban Design and Development International at Thammasat University in Thailand delves into this very issue, comparing Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur to uncover insights that could reshape urban planning and the energy sector’s role in it.
Panyangam’s research, published in the Proceedings of the International Conference of Contemporary Affairs in Architecture and Urbanism (ICCAUA), which translates to the International Conference of Contemporary Affairs in Architecture and Urbanism, focuses on the integration of green spaces with mass transit systems. The study highlights that Bangkok’s rapid, often poorly planned urban expansion has led to a stark lack of green spaces and a fragmented public transportation system. “The disconnect between transit and green spaces in Bangkok is a significant challenge,” Panyangam notes. “It’s not just about having parks; it’s about making them accessible and integrating them with the city’s transit network.”
The research employs spatial analysis and space syntax methods to evaluate the 400-meter catchment areas around transit stations in all three cities. This approach reveals that green space accessibility is more crucial than the size of the green spaces themselves. “Land subdivision and road networks play a pivotal role in this relationship,” Panyangam explains. “A well-connected green space, even if smaller, can have a more significant impact on urban sustainability than a larger, isolated one.”
The study proposes adopting a Transit-Oriented Compact Green City (TOCGC) model, which could enhance Bangkok’s connectivity and sustainability. This model emphasizes compact urban development centered around transit hubs, with ample green spaces woven into the urban fabric. For the energy sector, this presents a unique opportunity. As cities strive to become more sustainable, the demand for innovative energy solutions that support compact, green urban development will grow. This could drive investments in decentralized energy systems, renewable energy integration, and smart grid technologies.
Singapore and Kuala Lumpur serve as compelling case studies, offering insights into how green spaces and transit systems can be harmoniously integrated. Singapore’s extensive park connector network, for instance, links parks and nature reserves with public transit, creating a seamless green network. Kuala Lumpur, meanwhile, has made strides in integrating green spaces into its urban planning, though challenges remain.
Panyangam’s research underscores the importance of green space accessibility in promoting sustainable urban living. It also highlights the need for cities to learn from each other, adopting best practices and innovative models to create more livable, sustainable urban environments. For the energy sector, this research signals a shift towards more integrated, sustainable urban development, opening up new avenues for innovation and investment.
As Southeast Asia continues to urbanize, the lessons from this study will be invaluable. By prioritizing green space accessibility and transit integration, cities can achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). For the energy sector, this means a future where urban development and sustainability go hand in hand, driven by innovative energy solutions that support compact, green cities.