Cities beyond proximity

Area of Science:

• Urban Planning
• Sociology
• Sustainability Studies

Background:

• Proximity-based urban models, like the 15-minute city, are gaining traction.
• These models emphasize accessibility to services within a short travel time (e.g., 15 minutes walking or cycling).
• A potential drawback is the overemphasis on mere presence, potentially overlooking service quality and equity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the limitations of proximity-based urban planning.
• To propose a transition towards 'value-based cities' that incorporate broader quality and equity considerations.
• To explore the role of participatory approaches in enhancing urban resilience and democracy.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of urban planning models.
• Literature review on urban governance and participatory initiatives.
• Exploration of the relationship between proximity, value, and urban outcomes.

Main Results:

• Sole focus on proximity can obscure disparities in service quality and diversity.
• Value-based approaches, integrating identity, diversity, and relationships, can foster local resilience.
• Bottom-up initiatives promote local care and value, while top-down strategies may increase inequality.

Conclusions:

• Balancing top-down and bottom-up approaches is crucial for maximizing urban resilience, health, and sustainability.
• Transitioning to value-based cities can encourage innovative solutions and reduce inequalities.
• Participatory city models are key to co-creating equitable and sustainable urban futures.