CSB 20503 Topic 4 Land Use Planning & Policy PDF

 Introduction Green Infrastructure, encompassing elements like parks, green roofs, and sustainable water management, plays a crucial role in creating resilient and sustainable urban environments. Understanding the policies and regulations governing green infrastructure is essen...

 Introduction Green Infrastructure, encompassing elements like parks, green roofs, and sustainable water management, plays a crucial role in creating resilient and sustainable urban environments. Understanding the policies and regulations governing green infrastructure is essential for effective planning and implementation 2 Benefits of Green Infrastructure ENVIRONMENTAL (Biodiversity, Air & Water Quality) SOCIAL (Health & Well- Being) ECONOMIC (Property Value & Energy Efficiency)  Land Use Planning is a systematic and comprehensive process that involves allocating Principles of and managing land resources to meet communities' present and future needs. Land Use It is a multidisciplinary approach Planning considering social, economic, environmental, and cultural factors to create sustainable and functional urban and rural spaces. 4 Land Use Planning: Key Concepts Land Use Zoning Master Plans Refers to the way land is utilized Involves dividing land into Comprehensive documents that for various purposes, such as different zones or districts, each outline the long-term vision for residential, commercial, with specific permitted land uses. land use in a region. industrial, recreational, or Zoning regulations guide the Include goals, policies, and agricultural. spatial arrangement of activities, strategies for managing growth, Understanding current land use ensuring compatibility and infrastructure development, and patterns is essential for effective preventing conflicts. environmental conservation. planning. 5 Importance of Land Use Planning Sustainable Development Balances economic development with environmental conservation and social equity. Ensures that development meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations. Infrastructure Planning Facilitates efficient infrastructure provision such as roads, utilities, and public services. Aligns infrastructure development with land use goals to support community needs. Community Well-Being Enhances the quality of life by creating well-designed and functional spaces. Considers factors like accessibility, green spaces, and cultural amenities to promote community health and happiness. Environmental Protection Prevents environmentally sensitive areas from inappropriate development. Incorporates green infrastructure to mitigate the impact of development on ecosystems. 6 Land Use Planning Process Stakeholder Zoning & Gathering information on demographics, land Engagement Establishing overarching goals and objectives for land use in Regulations Executing the plan through projects, policies, and characteristics, and existing the planning area. regulations. land use. Involving the community, Developing zoning regulations businesses, and other Goals should align with the that align with the established Regularly monitoring and Analyzing data to identify stakeholders in the planning community's values and goals. evaluating the plan's trends, challenges, and process. aspirations. effectiveness, making opportunities. Ensuring that regulations adjustments as needed. Incorporating diverse support the desired land use perspectives ensures a more patterns. inclusive and representative plan. Data Collection Implementation Goal Setting & Analysis & Monitoring 7 Challenges in Land Use Planning Unplanned expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural land. Urban Sprawl Leads to inefficiencies, increased commuting distances, and environmental degradation. Insufficient financial and human resources for comprehensive planning. Limited Resources Impacts the ability to enforce regulations and implement the plan effectively. Adapting land use plans to address climate change impacts. Climate Change and Resilience Building resilient communities that can withstand environmental challenges. 8 Key Problems of Urban Sprawl in Malaysia Issue: Urban sprawl often leads to inefficient land use, with low-density developments consuming Land Use Inefficiency large areas of land. Example: The expansion of residential areas into suburban regions with detached houses and large plots, contributing to significant land consumption. Issue: The spread of urban developments without adequate planning for transportation infrastructure Traffic Congestion contributes to traffic congestion. Example: Suburban areas with limited public transport options, forcing residents to rely heavily on private vehicles, leading to traffic congestion and increased carbon emissions. Loss of Agricultural Issue: Urban sprawl encroaches on valuable agricultural land, impacting food security and the agricultural economy. Land Example: The conversion of agricultural land on the outskirts of cities into housing developments, contributing to the loss of productive farmland. Environmental Issue: The expansion of urban areas without proper environmental planning can result in habitat loss and degradation. Degradation Example: Clearing natural vegetation for housing developments, leading to the loss of biodiversity and disruption of ecosystems. Issue: Rapid and unplanned urban expansion strains existing infrastructure, leading to challenges in Infrastructure Strain providing adequate public services and utilities. Example: Suburban areas experiencing inadequate water and sanitation services due to population growth outpacing infrastructure development. Issue: Urban sprawl can contribute to social inequity, with uneven distribution of resources and Social Inequity services. Example: Limited access to healthcare, education, and other essential services in suburban areas, creating disparities in quality of life. Increased Energy Issue: Low-density suburban developments often result in increased energy consumption for transportation and infrastructure. Consumption Example: Long commuting distances in sprawling suburbs leading to higher energy use for daily transportation, contributing to environmental issues. 9 Case Study: Klang Valley (Greater Kuala Lumpur) Residential Expansions: Suburban areas in Loss of Green Spaces: Agricultural land on the Selangor, such as Shah Alam and Kajang, have outskirts has been converted into housing witnessed the development of extensive housing developments, resulting in the loss of green projects, contributing to urban sprawl. spaces and natural habitats. Traffic Congestion: The expansion of residential Challenges in infrastructure provision, traffic and commercial areas without synchronized management, and environmental sustainability, transportation planning has led to severe traffic highlighting the negative consequences of urban congestion on major highways and roads. sprawl in a Malaysian context 10 Policy Framework: National Perspective National Environmental Policies Governments often have overarching environmental policies that set the tone for sustainable development. These policies may include directives on biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and the integration of green spaces into urban planning. Example: Malaysia's National Policy on the Environment emphasizes sustainable resource management and conservation. Urban Planning and Development Acts National acts related to urban planning and development guide the integration of green infrastructure into broader development strategies. Provisions may address zoning regulations, land use planning, and the incorporation of green spaces in urban areas. Example: In the United States, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) influences federal decision-making by requiring environmental considerations. 11 Policy Framework: Regional Perspective Regional Environmental Frameworks: Regional bodies often establish frameworks to address environmental challenges unique to their geographical context. These frameworks may encourage the development of regional green infrastructure networks and collaborative conservation efforts. Example: The European Union's Biodiversity Strategy sets targets for protecting and restoring ecosystems across member states. Inter-Municipal Cooperation: Collaborative efforts between neighbouring municipalities to plan and implement green infrastructure projects. Shared policies may be developed to ensure cohesive regional development that considers environmental factors. Example: The Greater London Authority's policies encourage collaboration among London boroughs to enhance green spaces. 12 Policy Framework: Regional/State Perspective Local Development Plans Zoning and Building Codes Municipalities create local development Zoning regulations and building codes at the plans that outline land use and local level often dictate the inclusion of infrastructure development strategies. green features in construction projects. Green infrastructure elements may be This can range from requirements for green mandated or incentivized to achieve roofs to preserving existing green spaces. sustainability goals. Example: Cities like Portland, Oregon, have Example: Local Development Plans in zoning codes encouraging green roofs and Singapore emphasize green building sustainable building practices. designs and the creation of urban green corridors. 13 Key Policy Considerations Preserving Open Spaces Zoning Regulations Mixed-Use Zoning Density Bonuses: Providing developers with Tax Incentives increased building density allowances in exchange for incorporating green elements. Conservation policies aim to protect and Conservation Policies manage urban areas’ natural resources, biodiversity, and ecosystems. Regulations promoting sustainable water Water Conservation management practices, including rainwater harvesting and porous surfaces. 14 Challenges in Implementing Green Infrastructure Policies Long-Term Traditional High Initial Limited Public Maintenance Planning Costs Budgets Costs Paradigms Professional Perceived Lack of Limited Public Knowledge Inconvenience Political Will Knowledge Gaps Inadequate Training 15  Case Study – Green Belt Zone, UK Definition: The Green Belt is a designated area of open land surrounding urban areas, creating a buffer between cities and the countryside. Purpose: Preservation of Rural Character: The primary goal is to prevent unrestricted urban expansion and maintain the rural character of the surrounding areas. Limiting Urban Sprawl: To control and manage the outward growth of cities, promoting sustainable development practices. Encouraging Recreation: Providing accessible green spaces for recreational activities and enhancing the quality of life for residents. 16 Green Belt Zone: Key Features Geographical Geographical Scope Scope The Green Belt extends around major urban centers, including London, Birmingham, and Manchester. The Metropolitan Green Belt surrounds Greater London. Land Use Restrictions Stringent regulations restrict certain types Land Use of development within the Green Belt. Restrictions Limitations on new residential and commercial construction to maintain the open character of the land. Encouraging Agriculture Agricultural activities are often supported within the Green Belt to preserve farming Encouraging communities. Agriculture Policies allowing for sustainable agriculture practices while protecting the landscape. 17 Green Belt Zone, UK: Benefits and Criticisms BENEFITS Environmental Conservation: Preserves natural habitats, biodiversity, and landscapes. Recreational Opportunities: Offers residents accessible green spaces for recreation and leisure. Mitigating Urban Sprawl CRITICISMS Housing Challenges: Limits on development can contribute to housing shortages. Economic Impact: Some argue that restrictions hinder economic growth in certain areas. Inflexibility: Critics suggest the Green Belt policies may be too rigid and resistant to change. 18 Future Trends IoT Connectivity Smart Infrastructure Data-Driven Planning Integrating the Internet of Things Utilization of technology in Decision-making based on real- (IoT) to collect and analyze data for infrastructure, such as energy- time data to address urban better decision-making. efficient street lighting and waste challenges. Example: Smart sensors in green management systems. Example: Using data analytics to spaces monitoring air quality, soil Example: Intelligent traffic optimize public transportation moisture, and park usage. management systems optimizing routes and reduce environmental traffic flow and reducing impact. emissions. 19 Community Local Knowledge & Perspectives Communities possess invaluable local knowledge about their neighborhoods and understand their unique needs and challenges. Involving them ensures that planning decisions are rooted in the context of the Engagement Increased community. Engaging communities fosters transparency in the planning process, building Transparency trust between residents and planners. & Trust Transparent communication helps manage expectations and reduce potential conflicts. Tailored Community involvement enables planners to tailor solutions that align with the Solutions specific preferences and values of the residents. Tailored solutions are more likely to be embraced and sustained by the community. Enhanced Community engagement promotes social equity by ensuring that the benefits and Social Equity burdens of green infrastructure projects are distributed fairly. It helps identify and address potential disparities in access to resources and amenities. Empowerment Involving communities empowers residents to take ownership of their & Ownership neighborhoods. When communities feel heard and involved, they are more likely to participate actively in the maintenance and preservation of green spaces. Cultural & Community engagement considers cultural and social connections to the land, Social preserving and enhancing the identity of the community. Connections This ensures that green infrastructure projects respect and celebrate local culture. 20 Strategies for Effective Community Engagement in Green Infrastructure Projects Early and Continuous Engagement Varied Communication Channels Culturally Responsive Approaches Education and Awareness Interactive Design Workshops Community Leaders and Liaisons Feedback Loops Participatory Budgeting Capacity Building 21 Conclusion Addressing funding issues, resistance to change, and the lack of awareness is essential for successfully implementing green infrastructure policies. Overcoming these challenges requires innovative funding solutions, community engagement, and policy advocacy to create a supportive environment for sustainable urban development. Policymakers, planners, and communities must work collaboratively to navigate these challenges and unlock the full potential of green infrastructure. Involving communities in the planning process for green infrastructure projects is not just a best practice; it is a fundamental aspect of creating sustainable, inclusive, and culturally sensitive urban environments. 22