In the heart of Spain, a groundbreaking study is reshaping our understanding of how urban infrastructure can combat climate change and boost public health. Led by Ana Zazo Moratalla, this research, published in ‘VLC Arquitectura’ (Valencia Architecture), explores the potential of green and blue infrastructure to create healthier, more resilient cities. The findings could have significant implications for the energy sector, particularly in urban planning and sustainable development.
Green and blue infrastructure refers to interconnected networks of green spaces, such as parks and gardens, and blue spaces, like rivers and lakes. These spaces provide essential ecosystem services, from absorbing carbon dioxide to offering recreational opportunities. Zazo Moratalla’s study, which aligns with the European Union’s green infrastructure strategy, investigates how these networks can mitigate climate change and promote health.
The research follows a methodology outlined in the ‘Guide for Planning Healthy Cities’, focusing on three strategic lines: cities designed for walking, increasing green spaces and nature-based solutions (SbN), and intergenerational conviviality spaces. These lines are cross-referenced with the components of green infrastructure: nodes, corridors, and buffer areas.
“Our findings provide indicators that can help diagnose territories and propose health action plans based on green infrastructure,” Zazo Moratalla explains. These indicators support several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including health and well-being (SDG 3), sustainable communities (SDG 11), climate action (SDG 13), and biodiversity (SDG 15).
For the energy sector, this research underscores the importance of integrating green and blue infrastructure into urban planning. As cities strive to become more sustainable, the demand for energy-efficient buildings and renewable energy sources will likely increase. Green infrastructure can support these efforts by reducing urban heat island effects, improving air quality, and enhancing biodiversity.
Moreover, the study highlights the role of green infrastructure in climate change adaptation and mitigation. By absorbing carbon dioxide, these spaces can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while their cooling effects can decrease energy demand for air conditioning.
As cities worldwide grapple with the impacts of climate change and urbanization, Zazo Moratalla’s research offers a promising path forward. By prioritizing green and blue infrastructure, urban planners and policymakers can create healthier, more resilient cities that support the energy sector’s transition towards sustainability. The study, published in ‘VLC Arquitectura’, serves as a call to action for cities to harness the power of nature to combat climate change and promote public health.