A Systemic Approach for the Optimization of Urban Surfaces Usage

This paper proposes a method to support the sustainable development of existing cities through the optimization of the usage of their urban surfaces (i.e. roofs, facades, streets, public spaces, etc.). Adaptation and mitigation strategies aimed at improving resiliency and sustainability of urban areas are highly related to the utilization of these surfaces. The current trends demonstrate the lack of a systemic approach able to integrate multiple possible functions and avoid sub-optimal solutions by considering the physical and morphological characteristics of the urban environment. For example, in cities, conflicts are arising between the surface uses for renewable energy production, urban agriculture, and green solutions.

This study aims at systematizing the existing approaches and proposing a novel method to support the effective application of these solutions. In particular, an analytical procedure is presented to support the integration of different surface uses aiming at the maximization of throughputs, while avoiding conflicts. The method has been tested in a district in Bolzano (Italy) and it is replicable in areas with different morphological characteristics and climate conditions. The final configuration, in which several solutions have been systematically applied and integrated, demonstrate the potentialities of the proposed approach. Outdoor thermal comfort in the district is improved, with a reduction of Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) up to −5.8 °C, by simultaneously guaranteeing the production of renewable energy through solar active systems, and the preservation and expansion of existing green areas.