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December 14, 2022In the intricate dance of urban planning, the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) takes centre stage as a crucial orchestrator, dictating the nuanced rhythm of development. With a visionary touch, the framework meticulously weaves together the threads of sustainability and community health, transforming the urban landscape into a harmonious symphony where the well-being of inhabitants and the vitality of the environment are inseparable notes in the grand composition.
Planning, Development and Surveying: The Cornerstones of Urban Transformation
At its core, the NPPF lays the foundational notes for a forward-thinking approach to urban development. By embracing sustainability as a fundamental principle, the framework sets the stage for cityscapes designed not merely to exist but to flourish and actively contribute to the health and prosperity of their residents. This planning creates a holistic environment where the built and natural elements coalesce to foster healthier lifestyles, encourage social cohesion, and ultimately craft resilient communities in the face of contemporary challenges.
How does the UK's planning system contribute to the development of a community that is both healthy and sustainable?
Abstract
This study investigates the pivotal role of construction practices in fostering sustainable communities within a given region. The choice of building structures is crucial as they constitute a significant portion of communal dwellings and impact various aspects such as drainage, communal spaces, and air quality during construction. The primary objective is to assess the mechanisms implemented in architecture to promote sustainable communities through adopting policies supporting sustainability at the regional level (Lee et al., 2013).
The study also evaluates the methods employed to create designs that align with sustainable development goals in the state. Here, a sustainable community is defined as one that effectively allocates, designs, and structures resources in the environment to support the needs of both current and future generations (DCLG, 2006).
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is one of the planning systems under consideration, with the researcher exploring its role in facilitating sustainable architecture in the region. The study delves into the specific contributions of architects in the United Kingdom towards building structures that align with sustainability principles (Richmond and Manokore, 2011).
The research draws on data provided by authorities regarding the current adoption rate of sustainable development in communities. The findings indicate a direct correlation between the presence of sustainable development practices and the creation of sustainable communities. Notably, housing facilities adhering to green building standards are more likely to support sustainability in the current population and future generations.
Introduction
Urban growth dynamics have evolved into a complex phenomenon, requiring a nuanced approach to planning and development that considers elements enhancing people's living conditions (Richmond and Manokore, 2011). This approach fosters societal advancements that attract and retain populations in specific regions. The study focuses on sustainable communities, portraying organized, constructed, or modified societies that promote sustainable living. However, increasing cultural diversity in communities, particularly urban areas, necessitates reevaluating traditional building techniques. The drivers for such changes involve reconsidering and redesigning planning mechanisms to align a region's natural environment and resources with contemporary society's diverse needs and aspirations (Schlebusch and Cilliers, 2013).
Building a Greener Tomorrow: Sustainability in Civil Engineering
The Architecture, Building, and Planning course is pivotal in raising awareness about how professionals can create appealing, safe, and comfortable living spaces. Designing sustainable communities hinges on a legislative region's ability to continuously adapt through various approaches, addressing current and future residents' social and economic requirements (Clark, 2009). Consequently, the employed techniques enhance the quality of life and provide profitable opportunities. This field of study has gained significance in the United Kingdom due to the current imperative to reconceptualize constructed environments based on their impacts on natural and social surroundings (Wells, 2014).
Analyzing this subject is crucial for environmental moderation and climate change adaptation, ensuring long-term security for essential resources like water and energy, protecting and restoring global biodiversity, cleansing damaged ecosystems from the industrial era, fostering social equity and cohesion, and enhancing cultural diversification (Bonham-Carter, 2009). Architects are pivotal in creating sustainable communities, directly influencing their roles as citizens and professionals. The implication is that these professionals are expected to establish, preserve, and advance the expected quality of a constructed area based on specific conditions in each community. This responsibility enables them to become sustainable community members (Chansomsak and Vale, 2009). The framework for creating sustainable communities in the environment is depicted in Figure 1 below:
Architectural Structure in Building a Sustainable Community
Figure one delineates the inputs and anticipated outcomes crucial for developing sustainable communities. The illustration underscores the interconnectedness between construction work, design, and the sustainability of communities. The country's planning system incorporates models that advocate for sustainable design approaches in community planning, adopting participatory design and planning practices, and facilitating community designs through consultancy, technical assistance, and critique.
Within this model, two primary benefits of sustainable communities emerge: reducing non-renewable inputs, pollution, and waste (Klein, 2011). Consequently, local authorities have instituted policies of substantial importance for sustainable societies' future growth, particularly those in metropolitan regions.
This study reveals that the prevailing standard planning system in the United Kingdom encompasses three key branches: a development strategy framework, development administration procedures, and the establishment of an appeals system. Moreover, the government has implemented a legislative program and national planning policy to guide the implementation of advantageous sustainable development processes (Stoll et al., 2006).
Problem Statement
The surge in regional development projects has led to heightened levels of environmental degradation, primarily due to the inadequacies of traditional mechanisms that failed to incorporate elements for proper control over the types of buildings constructed in specific areas (Omer, 2008). This problem is further exacerbated by the design choices in the construction process, resulting in adverse environmental impacts. Common consequences of this environmental deterioration include pollution, unpredictable climatic conditions linked to global warming, overpopulation, and an increase in accidents due to structural failures, all stemming from a lack of thorough consideration of the effects of construction in a given area (Akadiri, Chinyio, and Olomolaiye, 2012).
Historically, insufficient building policies have led to irregularities in the quality of structures, subjecting many buildings to costly repairs and hazards associated with poor planning. Determining the level of professionalism applied in constructing a structure has also been challenging (Global Sustainable Communities Handbook, 2014). These challenges underscore the need for systems that regulate the types and styles of structures built in specific areas.
Improper building planning can result in negative social effects, influencing people's perceptions of a region, particularly when closely located structures form congested or poorly planned areas. Overpopulation and structural congestion may contribute to a negative social image due to constructors' oversight of key considerations like proximity and boundaries (Shams and Rahman, 2017). The importance of utilizing specific designs in a region lies in ensuring the allocation and consideration of environmental elements such as space, demographics, and access to materials (Keiner, 2006).
The research is motivated by the need to present techniques that professionals can employ to ensure the construction and design of environmentally friendly structures, causing minimal harm to the surroundings (Forum for the Future, 2007). Additionally, the study analyzes planning systems that support the creation of green infrastructure, aiming to demonstrate the connection between these planning systems and the design and construction of sustainable communities (Kuhlman and Farrington, 2010).
The Structure of Planning Systems
These frameworks are strategically devised to oversee sustainable communities' proper design and establishment, with formulated policies and supervised implementation to create favourable environments (Gerasimova, 2017). In the United Kingdom, one widely used planning system for the development of sustainable communities is the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which supports essential elements associated with building projects, including the promotion of "green building" practices within society (Giovannucci et al., 2012).
However, the study delves deeper into additional factors influencing sustainable building construction, emphasizing the integration of the community in creating comfortable and viable living spaces (Guinée et al., 2011). Certain regions in the state face challenges stemming from a lack of knowledge about practices supporting sustainable development among the populace. Consequently, these areas are more susceptible to issues such as illnesses and improper distribution of natural resources (Swart, Raskin, and Robinson, 2004). It is crucial to recognize that the absence of proper design implementation in a given area leads to secondary consequences like hunger and sickness (Miller et al., 2014).
Scope of Study: Planning Systems in the United Kingdom
The research focuses on assessing the established policies employed by organizations for infrastructure planning in the United Kingdom, with a primary emphasis on the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which plays a significant role in advocating sustainability measures, particularly in construction. Construction professionals rely on the standards outlined in the framework to ensure that the developmental projects in a region align with sustainability goals. The study is centred on sustainable societies, considering sustainability as the effective utilization of available resources to benefit the current population and future generations (Cohen, 2006). The analysis presents the components of a sustainable community, ranging from less commonly utilized to those widely adopted by professionals in the field (Wan Alwi et al., 2014).
The initial component of an ecological community is proper waste management, a crucial aspect that significantly impacts urban demographics more than rural areas. Environmental growth necessitates collective responsibility for addressing related issues. Professionals involved in land development must implement effective mechanisms for properly disposing of waste products (Linnenluecke and Griffiths, 2010). However, challenges have arisen recently, with countries like India facing accusations of improper waste disposal from structures. Inadequate disposal methods include directing dumping pipes to rivers and lakes (Newton et al., 2007). Moreover, the scarcity of dustbins around structures leads to improper disposal alongside roads or within living and recreational areas, posing health risks (Beddington, 2011).
Another component of building and designing sustainable communities is the promotion of favourable climatic conditions within the environment. The research evaluates the impact of buildings on atmospheric conditions, highlighting concerns about buildings contributing to approximately 60% of total gas emissions. This high contribution makes buildings a significant factor in climate degradation. Industrial structures may also contribute to land pollution. The study proposes techniques to address sustainability to ensure that buildings support and maintain healthy environmental standards.
Objectives
The overarching goal of this research is to explore current and future mechanisms utilized in advancing environmental sustainability through infrastructural development. The study aims to underscore the significance of buildings in shaping communities and illustrate architecture's pivotal role in community development.
The specific objectives of the research are:
- Analyze the various approaches employed by UK planning systems to promote the establishment of sustainable communities.
- Assess the impacts of planning systems on the design and construction processes in creating sustainable communities.
- Establish the relationship between sustainable development and communities through an in-depth examination.
Research Questions
The research paper's framework underscores the role of planning systems in facilitating the implementation of civilized mechanisms for constructing sustainable societies.
Key inquiries addressed in the research include:
- What range of benefits could well-designed sustainable communities offer?
- What barriers may exist in designing sustainability within communities?
- What roles could design education play in the creation of sustainable communities?
Additionally, the researcher examines various mechanisms employed by designers to ensure the realization of sustainable communities.
Literature Review
The literature review in this study critically examines empirical studies and major theories that explore the correlation between planning systems, particularly the NPPF, and their role in advancing sustainable development in construction. The analysis conducted also outlines measures applicable for assessing levels of community sustainability. The primary framework involves establishing theoretical foundations and evaluating various factors contributing to the evolution of environmental sustainability.
Development of Sustainable Homes Through Renewable Energy Sources
The pivotal role of architecture in promoting sustainable communities is highlighted in this context. This is due to the inherent connection between people's activities and the constructed structures they inhabit (Ragheb, El-Shimy, and Ragheb, 2016). Consequently, many environmental challenges in a given area can be attributed to the presence of buildings, leading to issues such as air, water, and garbage pollution ('Sustainability, Energy, and Architecture,' 2013). The design and placement of structures often influence these adverse conditions. For example, improperly positioned drainage pipes for waste in a building can result in garbage or water contamination.
The architectural approach to designing and constructing structures also raises questions about their impact on the surrounding environment, particularly regarding location (Anthopoulos, 2015). This consideration can influence perceptions of areas as either overcrowded or underpopulated based on the proximity of structures. Therefore, it becomes crucial for experts to thoroughly comprehend the relationship between buildings and the natural systems in the neighbouring environment (Banzhaf and Boyd, 2012). This study section assesses how designs and buildings have promoted sustainable communities ('Article Information 1993-2006,' 2006).
Sustainable Communities in the United Kingdom
Numerous studies have indicated that the pursuit of sustainability in the country has compelled experts to rethink constructed areas in alignment with their natural and social environments (Adams et al., 2016). The current global priorities centre around mitigating and adapting to climate change and ensuring long-term security for water and energy resources (Barozzi et al., 2016). As mentioned earlier, sustainability assesses the interconnectedness between economic growth, environmental quality, and social equity. Consequently, research suggests that associated policies and plans should foster consistent economic opportunities, improve environmental fundamentals, and prioritize societal well-being to cultivate a balanced environment (Koziolek et al., 2013).
The set standards should ensure impartiality concerning generations, races, and genders. This aspect helps to ensure equality and simplified access to the current opportunities and facilities (Thompson, 2005). The main driver of sustainable development is the promotion of quality life. (Maywald and Riesser, 2016). Overall, the country’s administration and the established planning systems have significantly assisted in creating sustainable communities. Besides the utilisation of development towards the promotion of sustainability, various other mechanisms have been laid down to support viable communities in the region. The figure below summarises some of the effective sustainability mechanisms established in the nation as compiled by (School, no date)
mechanisms of building sustainable communities
According to the findings of this research, essential components defining a sustainable community encompass ecological preservation, increased urban density and population in village centres, promotion of indigenous economies, sustainable transportation, thoughtful housing practices, a civilized society, effective water and sewage management, and the establishment of efficient recycling mechanisms within a specific region (Koziolek, 2011).
Strategies for Structuring Sustainable Communities
Sustainable societies advocate for goals prioritising the well-being of natural environments and human communities. In addition to employing appropriate technology, sustainable communities are expected to achieve various objectives (Phillips and Gardner, 2012). First and foremost, experts should prioritize enhancing the quality of life, ensuring that strategies implemented contribute to the residents' social, psychological, and economic well-being. Pursuing an acceptable quality of life should be inclusive, transparent, and democratic (Hahn and Figge, 2018).
Creating and designing a sustainable society entails a profound respect for the natural surroundings, emphasizing the community's connection with nature. Strategies should incorporate systems and elements essential to people's well-being, providing access to nature through metropolitan parks, open-space zones, and urban gardens (Gifford, 2012). Overall, a sustainable community involves a comprehensive understanding of the delicate balance between the natural and built environments, with experts avoiding approaches that may adversely impact nature and ecological conditions (Avgeriou, Stal, and Hilliard, 2013).
Another crucial goal for a sustainable community is the purposeful integration of technology. Advanced architectural technology should be harnessed to create healthy resident environments without compromising existing environmental standards. Technology is pivotal in designing buildings and fostering communication networks among people to enhance the environment (Azhar and Brown, 2009; Shrouf, Ordieres, and Miragliotta, 2014).
Sustainable communities strive for equitable distribution and optimization of key resources, considering natural and economic factors to ensure equal access for all residents (Venters et al., 2018). Planning systems are instrumental in establishing laws that govern the responsible utilization of resources, preventing harm or depletion (Toh, Nagel, and Oakden, 2009).
The significance of scale and capacity is another integral aspect of sustainable communities. This emphasizes the importance of avoiding overdevelopment, overuse, overbuilding, or overpopulation to prevent environmental strain. Experts carefully assess indicators of environmental stress, gaining a critical understanding of a region's sustainability requirements (Khasreen, Banfill, and Menzies, 2009; Specht et al., 2014).
The research underscores the crucial role of planning and design in constructing sustainable communities. Access to healthy environments is considered a fundamental right for every citizen in the United Kingdom, with positive implications for both present and future generations. Effective legislative measures are essential for preventing pollution and environmental degradation in a region, while sustainable communities offer numerous benefits by fostering equitable economic and communal development (Elrayies, 2018; ALwaer and Clements-Croome, 2010).
Design Techniques for Building Sustainable Communities
A widely embraced strategy for achieving sustainability in construction is termed place-making. This approach prioritizes a bottom-up process, utilizing community-scale planning (Pons, 2013). In this context, environmental appraisal experts work towards creating a qualitatively livable environment that aligns with sustainability standards (Pons et al., 2015). The overarching perspective is depicted in the figure below:
Elements of Place-making Approach
The diagram presented in Figure 3 outlines critical elements integral to the place-making approach. Establishing sustainable development necessitates examining each section depicted in the image (Ürge-Vorsatz et al., 2012). However, the arrangement does not imply a specific order of priority; it functions as a checklist for the general public and experts to ensure that any initiated development incorporates all these measures for creating a sustainable community. Moreover, planning systems, such as the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), enforce regulations to ensure each component is considered when developing specific land (Boafo, Kim, and Kim, 2016).
The place-making technique guarantees that a region aligns with livability standards, serving diverse functions within a specific space. This approach aims to transform areas from mere locations people occupy into healthy, livable regions. The primary focus is on creating spaces where people can socialize and interact safely, providing ample room for expansion and introducing economic practices that contribute to the well-being of the land (Wang et al., 2018).
Implementing this mechanism requires developing any regular space in a community by incorporating various elements. This transformation is achieved by applying genius loci (Benke and Tomkins, 2017), directing the place towards accommodating diverse functions and addressing community issues. Simultaneously, residents gain a sense of ownership over the developed land (Zuo and Zhao, 2014).
Design Theories for Sustainable Communities
Involving society in effective land development enables citizens to contribute inputs to the process. This engagement allows planners to integrate experiential knowledge with technical design expertise (Li, Yang, and Lam, 2013). This approach aids designers in identifying common interests and devising practical, creative solutions that leverage local characteristics and assets. Regardless of the environmental attributes of a region, community input should be a primary source of information in the planning and design of a specific area (Omer, 2008).
Participation is commonly viewed as facilitating interactive planning for creating an engaged community (Boyle, 2005). The place-making approach is often chosen because it enables designers to involve the community in the process of infrastructural development (Hee et al., 2015). Consequently, a broader range of considerations is considered based on the diversity within a given group. Moreover, this process contributes to the nuanced involvement of community members by soliciting differentiated inputs (Jrade and Jalaei, 2013). Therefore, community participation is pivotal in organizing sustainable communities, involving more intricate procedures such as assessing and understanding issues supporting viable environmental demands (Blengini and Di Carlo, 2010).
Furthermore, planning and design mechanisms must align with the community's needs. This alignment is achievable when the personnel consider the natural layout and resources available in an environment (Anderson, Wulfhorst, and Lang, 2015). This step ensures that the community receives sustainable development embraced by its members. Additionally, the design should allow for continuous monitoring of the established infrastructure (Dutil, Rousse, and Quesada, 2011). This approach ensures procedural transparency and the ongoing maintenance of the environment by the regulations set by existing planning systems.
Architectural Responsibility in Creating Sustainable Communities
In addition to being recognized as designers and strategists, architects' role in constructing a sustainable community is considered a standard practice (Development, 2010). Consequently, architects are expected to develop techniques that promote sustainable development in various regions across the country (Business & Sustainable Development Commission, 2017). In the United Kingdom, the principles of sustainable communities are instilled in these professionals early in their professional training. Therefore, the ability to implement viable plans that benefit society significantly is regarded as an integral part of professional ethics (The Royal Society, 2008).
The Impact of the Latest Technological Advancements on Sustainable Development
The UK Planning Systems
Planning systems play a pivotal and beneficial role within the governmental structures of English nations, primarily supporting the interests of the public. This significance arises from their capacity to shape developmental decisions directly affecting people's lives (Nasibulina, 2017). A planning system ensures the comprehensive evaluation of various aspects, including the environment and the economy. The government has gradually reformed the planning system, introducing strategic acts and utilizing ministerial statements to update guidance practices (Friends of the Earth, 2012).
In the context of this research, a significant reform initiated by the government within the current planning system is the introduction of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). This framework comprises streamlined standards that prioritize sustainable development. The outlined regulations emphasize that planning applications should be submitted to relevant bodies to assess their alignment with environmentally friendly development strategies (Byrd, 2007).
Architecture professionals contribute to achieving these objectives by ensuring the availability of sufficient land in appropriate locations of the required type (Cullen, 2006). This approach enables the construction of buildings that support innovation and regional productivity while also accommodating future infrastructure needs.
Another goal is to foster the creation of vibrant and healthy societies. This objective entails designing buildings and structures that provide ample space for a diverse range of homes catering to the needs of current and future generations (Strange and Bayley, 2011). Architects achieve this by promoting well-constructed homes within a secure environment. A thoughtfully planned house includes efficient access to services, allocating additional spaces contributing to community health, and supporting communal and cultural well-being (Van de Kerk and Manuel, 2008).
The Connection Between Architectural Planning Systems and the Environment
Today, authorities in the United Kingdom mandate architects to design environmentally friendly, green, and adaptable structures for the surrounding ecosystem. Green buildings is structures that efficiently utilize energy, water, and other natural resources. These constructions are expected to prioritize the health and well-being of residents while enhancing their productivity (Ahmad, Soskolne, and Ahmed, 2012). Additionally, the design should emphasize proper waste management and contribute to the reduction of pollution and environmental degradation.
The UK planning system has embraced the concept of green buildings due to its numerous advantages. Beyond the positive environmental impacts, such structures create high-quality working environments (Yılmaz and Bakış, 2015). Consequently, this adoption indirectly promotes increased productivity within these buildings.
Development Plans
The management of this sector falls under the jurisdiction of the regional planning body. Authorized personnel within this administration are tasked with formulating revisions for the Regional Spatial Strategy department. Once completed, these drafts undergo scrutiny for public approval by the Secretary of State. It is crucial to highlight that the Regional Spatial Strategy is a statutory entity with a substantial role in formulating development plans and strategies for a designated region. Additionally, this body undergoes evaluation by another regulatory entity known as the Regional Economic Strategy (RES).
Summary
Drawing from various secondary sources on mechanisms for promoting sustainability, this section has assessed the diverse definitions outlined by researchers. Notably, sustainability is often synonymous with the term "green building." In examining the various approaches utilized to promote sustainability, it is evident that multiple techniques have been deployed to foster development. However, these approaches have not comprehensively addressed sustainability concerns, as pollution remains a significant challenge in the country. Consequently, the primary research gap that remains inadequately addressed pertains to the techniques supporting future sustainability, aligning with efforts to combat climate change positively and establish enduring community projects.
Methodology
This section outlines the methodologies employed by the researcher to establish the validity of the chosen topic. The study aims to demonstrate that implementing planning systems has played a crucial role in developing sustainable communities, as the Sustainable Development Commission (2005a) indicates. The researcher also seeks to assess how individuals in UK society perceive and employ developmental sustainability techniques within a region, with insights from The Oxford Institute for Sustainable Development (2009).
An Environmental Impact Assessment
This study primarily relies on data sourced from secondary outlets, particularly online platforms. This choice is driven by the cost and logistical challenges associated with collecting primary data, as highlighted by the UK Parliament (2005). While the researcher acknowledges this approach's potential limitations, such as participants' willingness to provide pertinent input, it is deemed practical given the wealth of existing research conducted by professionals in the field (Young et al., 2010). Leveraging insights from various studies enables the extraction of relevant information to substantiate the study's evidence-based support, as emphasized by Haller (2018).
Data Collection
The considered research approach for data collection was an online survey on gathered findings on the trends of sustainable communities in the United Kingdom. This process involved constructing a list of questions relating to sustainability assessment and sending them to the target audience for responses. The researcher utilised Survey Monkey as the main tool for performing the task. The target audience was mainly random people from the UK interested in sustainable communities through development in the country. The table below represents the survey questions conducted on the survey website.
Surveys Question | Response |
Does sustainable development contribute towards the creation of sustainable communities? | |
Can the government sufficiently promote the creation and design of sustainable communities? | |
Have NPPF and other planning systems significantly contributed to creating sustainable communities? | |
Does environmental design play a significant role in the creation of sustainable communities? | |
Have communities gained sufficient awareness about the design and creation of sustainable communities? | |
Is it important for architectural designers to follow all the policies in creating sustainable communities? | |
Are there sufficient planning systems that assist with creating and designing sustainable communities? |
Sustainability Survey Questions
On the other hand, the study has also utilised secondary academic materials to gather the required data. Some of the chosen approaches included deductive reasoning and an evaluation of completed literature reviews that offer input about trends in creating and designing sustainable communities in the UK. In this case, the main considerations were journals, public government reports, research articles on sustainability, and websites. (Sustainable Development Commission, 2005b).
Utilising the online secondary sources review technique has various advantages for the researcher. First, this data collection method is cost-effective as the researcher only needs to analyse the available online content that provides the required information on the subject (White and Brown, 2010). On the other hand, data used in the technique is flexible based on the environment. The researcher can extract the data related to the study according to the chosen topic (UK NHS Sustainable Development Unit, 2009). However, this was an effective technique in the study as it allowed the researcher to combine the observation data collection approach in collecting the information necessary to support the study's topic (Mebratu, 1998).
Data Needs
Based on the structure of this study, the main focus is on the approaches UK planning systems use in creating and designing sustainable communities through architectural development. On the other hand, the study also assesses the impacts of the policies laid out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) framework to promote sustainability in development. Therefore, the analysis of the subject would require a set of data that enables the attainment of data related to the population of constructions that followed NPPF guidelines and the implication of sustainability in communities through development. In essence, the utilised data will assist in revealing the impacts of depending upon sustainable building techniques as opposed to traditional mechanisms for building and design of constructions.
Research Design
The approach for collecting the data constituted of the major steps. First, the process involved identifying the essential data that should be utilised in the research. This step was conducted independently before analyzing the ideal websites where the data would emanate. The next phase involved an examination of the diverse sources that provide relevant data efficiently with the type of research. This step was achieved through online search options like Google search (Munton and Collins, 1998). The online survey technique was conducted for two weeks, and the process began on the 8th and continued to the 22nd of January 2020.
Green Building Distribution
The figure above represents the aspects the researcher considered regarding their contributions to building a sustainable community. In essence, accessing data directly related to community sustainability regarding building and architecture was challenging.
The main theme of the research was the determination of the strategies used by architecture professionals in creating a sustainable community (Alwan, Jones, and Holgate, 2017). On the other hand, the researcher utilised the provided research question to find information on the design and construction of sustainable communities (Jones et al., 2005). The procedure has utilised an observation of various elements that help to construct a sustainable community.
Regarding the design, the researcher first intended to evaluate the impending need for sustainable communities in the United Kingdom (Alwan, Jones, and Holgate, 2017). Therefore, they have evaluated the available online studies to extract the statistics found in the community that determine whether sustainability has been successfully achieved in construction fields (Getvoldsen et al., 2018). Moreover, the researcher evaluated how various elements have been implemented to construct sustainable communities (Alwan, Jones, and Holgate, 2017). Even though buildings and constructions form a major part of this study, the researcher pays keen attention to other parameters, such as the proximity of buildings and the living standards of the people occupying the places. This way, the researcher can determine the level of sustainability achieved in a society concerning the determining elements (Wezel et al., 2014).
A sustainable community comprises elements such as climatic conditions, communal access to important natural resources such as water, and the creation of health-safety buildings (Gregory, Vidic, and Dzombak, 2011). On the other hand, given that humans are social beings, constructions should have ample living spaces. In this case, the data collected in the research assist the researcher in finding out the rate at which sustainable communities have been embraced in different regions to promote green buildings and architectural structures around the country. Therefore, during the creation and design of buildings, the relevant authorities must ensure that they have met the set standards (Moreno-Benito, Agnolucci, and Papageorgiou, 2017). In this case, the researcher has extracted numerical data in tables to determine the level of awareness in creating sustainable communities. Therefore, the researcher analysed buildings' contributions to creating sustainable communities (Meehan and Bryde, 2011).
The last part of the consideration in the design was the role of planning systems in forming sustainable communities. Based on this study, the researcher has mainly considered the NPPF as the primary planning system in architectural building and design that affects the creation of sustainable communities through embracing professional development. As mentioned, stakeholders should follow policies and mechanisms to create long-lasting communities (Dempsey et al., 2011). The main aim of this framework is to ensure that people do not avoid living in a given region. Instead, they employ relevant mechanisms that ensure environmental conditions support their current and future livelihood. As a result, the framework elaborates on the building standards that may facilitate achieving sustainability in a given area (Sustainable Development Commission, 2005a). Therefore, the researcher evaluated the framework's influence on creating a sustainable community. This way, the researcher has gathered relevant data that indicates the level of awareness of the policies based on the creation of sustainability (Dempsey, Brown, and Bramley, 2012).
Research Analysis
The study utilised various types of analysis in the determination of the outcomes. First, the researcher has used methodologies such as correlation regarding the numerical data (Amir et al., 2015). During data collection, the researcher extracted a table that provided diverse information depending on the research topic. Therefore, the researcher has utilised a mechanism such as correlation to determine various study implications (Amir et al., 2015). For instance, one of the determinations was the type of relationship that National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) standards have to the existence of sustainable development. This aspect was tested based on determining structures that have effectively utilised green housing techniques against an assessment of the ones with needs of approaching a similar approach.
On the other hand, the researcher also evaluates the awareness professionals have in creating sustainable communities (Jones et al., 2005). In this case, the researcher has considered the types of studies carried out in the environment that indicate people’s connection to the presence of sustainable communities in the United Kingdom. Based on the provided data, the researcher determines this aspect by conducting a correlation between the Current local assessment of housing needs and the Proportion of local authority land area covered by green belt.
Overall, the researcher has mainly utilised numerical evaluation based on the data collected from different sources about the subject (Kulak, Graves, and Chatterton, 2013). This way, they have a clear perspective on the implications of the study subject on the environment. The researcher has also evaluated findings using diverse perspectives not initially allocated in past studies (Matarrita-Cascante, Brennan, and Luloff, 2010). For instance, the researcher has considered the influence of planning systems on forming sustainable communities. Again, the researcher has also analysed the relationship between sustainable development and the community (Strachan et al., 2015). This way, it was possible to determine the factors that have contributed towards establishing sustainability in various national building sectors in the state. Moreover, the researcher utilises the data to illustrate how it supports the existing techniques used in designing and creating long-lasting viable communities (Fraser et al., 2006).
Results
Given that the data was obtained from secondary sources and is a qualitative study, the obtained outcomes were mainly based on the researcher’s professional evaluation of the information related to the research. Moreover, the researcher demonstrates the connection between the empirical study conducted in the environment and the provided outcomes from the data collected (UK Department of Health, 2011). In essence, the researcher intends to prove that planning systems have established valuable mechanisms that could be used to form sustainable communities (Shove, 2012). Moreover, the researcher demonstrates that the architecture and building course promotes sustainability in a given environment. Therefore, this section comprises information about the identified results in various topics determined in the data collection process (Allwood et al., 2008).
The Extents of Planning Systems in Promoting Environmental Sustainability
The researcher made various types of deductions based on the data collected from various secondary sources and the tables representing the information (Jenks and Jones, 2010). First, the data in the following table represents information on the influence of NPPF on supporting sustainable development. The data was obtained from the UK data set site, which comprises information about carbon-related issues in the United Kingdom (Jeswani and Azapagic, 2016). It provides statistics on the housing plans implemented by different authorities to support the region's green building and community sustainability (Oxford City Council).
Local Authority | Indicative assessment of housing need based on a proposed formula, 2016-2026 (Dwellings per annum) | Current local assessment of housing need, based on the most recent publicly available document (Dwellings per annum) | The proportion of local authority land area covered by green belts, national parks, areas of outstanding natural beauty or sites of special scientific interest |
Adur | 412 | Local assessment of need (not available) | 55% |
Allerdale | 125 | 134 | 52% |
Amber Valley | 404 | 435 | 34% |
Arun | 1,199 | 919 | 47% |
Ashfield | 519 | 480 | 42% |
Ashford | 989 | 825 | 38% |
Aylesbury Vale | 1,499 | 965 | 6% |
Babergh | 439 | 355 | 15% |
Barking & Dagenham | 2,089 | 1,264 | 15% |
Barnet | 4,126 | Local assessment of need (not available) | 28% |
Barnsley | 898 | 967-1389 | 79% |
Barrow-in-Furness | 0 | 63-133 | 11% |
Basildon | 1,024 | 972-986 | 63% |
Basingstoke and Deane | 974 | 850 | 33% |
Bassetlaw | 324 | 435-500 | 2% |
Bath & North East Somerset | 626 | 720 | 76% |
Bedford | 1,281 | 950 | 0% |
Bexley | 1,723 | 963 | 18% |
Birmingham | 3,577 | 4,450 | 14% |
Blaby | 345 | 370 | 1% |
Blackburn with Darwen | 153 | 300-530 | 57% |
Blackpool | 93 | 250-400 | 3% |
Bolsover | 244 | 235-240 | 7% |
Bolton | 798 | 821 | 52% |
Boston | 260 | 302 | 4% |
Bournemouth | 1,022 | 979 | 15% |
Bracknell Forest | 670 | 635 | 48% |
Bradford | 1,663 | 2,200 | 66% |
Braintree | 835 | 716 | 0% |
Breckland | 680 | 612 | 18% |
Brent | 2,855 | 1,826 | 1% |
Brentwood | 454 | 362 | 90% |
Brighton & Hove | 924 | 1,506 | 45% |
Bristol | 2,420 | 1,450 | 7% |
Broadland | 528 | 391 | 14% |
Bromley | 2,564 | 1,150-1,488 | 51% |
Bromsgrove | 364 | 349 | 89% |
Broxbourne | 559 | 454 | 64% |
Green Building trend in the UK
The data represents various national authorities that supervise building and construction plans. Moreover, it also represents the number of housing plans that have succeeded due to following the correct policies set by the governing bodies (Ehnert et al., 2018). As a result, the communities established based on the housing projects can support the nation's growth and ensure the globalisation of proper design and building standards that support setting up sustainable communities (Yigitcanlar and Kamruzzaman, 2018).
Impact of Using Sustainable Photovoltaic Technology Development
The diagram below represents the current computation regarding the country’s status in adopting sustainable communities. The tabulation also advised the researcher to evaluate the stated hypothesis that the presence of planning systems has assisted in designing and creating sustainable communities. The various crucial indicators of sustainability in the United Kingdom are represented in Figure 3 below.
The data shows that most of the employed mechanisms of building a harmonious society have mainly been concentrated in areas such as electricity, transportation, commercial & residential, and agriculture. Nonetheless, it is crucial to note that the residential areas have been allocated less than electricity and industry, contributing to pollution. The researcher represented the data gathered by
Harvey (2014).
Environmental Sustainability Indicators
Trends of Sustainability Adoption in the UK
After reviewing multiple articles by different researchers, it becomes evident that the integration of sustainability in both development and community domains has experienced substantial growth over the years. A recent governmental report in the country reveals the establishment of diverse entities tasked with regulating and ensuring compliance among construction professionals with the stipulated regulations to foster community sustainability through development (Atmosphere, Climate & Environment Information Programme, 1952). These principles are explicitly outlined in the Environmental Protection Act, which governs construction rates and the utilization of natural resources.
Hindrances of Sustainability in the Community
One of the prevalent challenges hindering the advancement of sustainability is the continual rise in population within urban centres, notably impacting cities. The drive for employment and an improved quality of life has attracted many people to urban areas. However, this influx of residents has posed challenges to promoting sustainable communities and development. Dempsey, Brown, and Bramley (2012) noted that achieving sustainability in densely populated regions is challenging due to heightened resource consumption rates. The surge in population has resulted in the construction of additional structures to accommodate the urban dwellers. Data indicates that individuals working in business zones often establish residences on the outskirts of the city, thus limiting their direct support for sustainability initiatives within the city (Sandholz, 2017). Nevertheless, Martin et al.'s (2019) research suggests that sustainable communities can still be realized in densely populated areas by implementing innovative measures.
Characteristics of Sustainable Communities
A survey of different types of literature based on this agenda has shown that different researchers have reached similar conclusions about the characteristics of sustainability in communities. One of the common aspects is the support for green building strategies. In this case, diverse articles represent green building as the promotion of construction works through the observation of parameters like proximity between buildings, the installation of sustainable materials, especially in industries, and the utilisation of designs that are sensitive to issues such as drainage, carbon emissions as well as other types of waste release to the environment (Choi and Sirakaya, 2006). Ensuring that all constructions are based on these parameters indicates that sustainability is consistently adopted within the country concerning development and communities.
Relationship Between Sustainable Communities and Development
The studies indicate that promoting sustainability in one environment promotes sustainability in the other. According to Ebner and Baumgartner (2006), installing sustainability in one area contributes to positive results. A good illustration is promoting sustainable development by utilising corporate social responsibility (CSR) in companies. Given the attention that has been put on the industries towards promoting green environments, one of the major techniques involves using corporate responsibilities. For instance, various companies in the UK have promoted sustainable living conditions for the communities by engaging in projects like installing lighting systems in the urban regions, which in turn promote the increase of business in the regions since people work at longer times compared to before.
Photocatalytic Treatment of Wastewater
On the other hand, other activities include cleaning the city and installing waste disposals that prevent people from dumping waste products within their living areas.
The Use of Green Building Materials
The government of the United Kingdom has installed structures and policies that regulate the types of materials used for construction in the country. Professionals are encouraged to utilise environmentally friendly materials that will promote the implementation of sustainability in the communities through development. One of the techniques involves utilising decomposable materials, like switching from polythene papers to decomposable bags, to provide diverse installations in the regions. On the other hand, architects must provide waste disposal mechanisms and promote sustainable techniques such as recycling and other methods to ensure sustainable development and community sustainability.
According to a survey in an interview conducted by Perdana, Jones and Azapagic (2017), despite people knowing the benefits of using green products as well as the installation of sustainability measures like proper construction designs, a significant population does not have the required knowledge on the aspects of sustainability in the United Kingdom.
NPPF's Impact on Sustainable Communities in the UK
As evident from the literature review, various scholarly efforts addressing sustainability have strongly focused on the sustainability of development and different communities in the country. Nonetheless, very limited efforts have been implemented to assess the role of UK planning systems in promoting sustainable communities in the country through proper construction procedures (Guide, 2010). The importance of this study is to analyse the prevailing association between planning systems such as the NPPF and the promotion of sustainability in communities through development (Design, 2004). A qualitative approach was utilised in the data collection procedure to assess National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) contributions in designing and creating sustainable communities. The gathered secondary data offers an evaluation of the current trend in adopting green buildings towards the formation of sustainability (Walker et al., 2010).
Role of the NPPF in Supporting Sustainable Development
Based on the results gathered in the study, sustainability covers both development as well as society. Several researchers have established that the ability to achieve outcomes in one sector means that it is possible to achieve results in the other. Development is one of the major considerations in forming a community (Clark, 2009). It, therefore, means that it is not possible to separate the two aspects in an evaluation process. Therefore, the data illustrates that most of the local regions around the country are highly populated and have the correct type of housing (Wu et al., 2015).
In this case, the researcher has mostly concentrated on the NPPF as the governing planning system (Wu et al., 2015). Moreover, the data also suggests that the involved experts, especially in building and architecture, have the required knowledge to establish buildings that promote sustainable communities in the regions (DCLG, 2010).
Sustainability in Communities
Based on the outcomes of the online survey, it is possible to conclude that the regions have already embraced mechanisms that support sustainable communities (Davim, 2013). This information is achieved from the data based on the fact that the responses mainly support the regulations set up by the local authorities (St. Denis and Parker, 2009). This outcome is based on the fact that the experts followed the policies laid in the standard framework for buildings in the United Kingdom (Mileti and Henry, 1999).
Based on the standards, construction can only be set up in a given area if it meets various parameters. First, sufficient resources should permit the residents to preserve and consume them (Ramani et al., 2010). Moreover, the area should have ample space to place the buildings and promote proper living standards for the people (Ritchie, 2008). This formation protects people from negative issues like health hazards due to poorly constructed buildings (Ritchie, 2008).
Environmental Degradation Impacts of Concrete Use in Construction
Conversely, the policies also mandate experts to consider various crucial factors during the design and construction of buildings (Gliessman, 2016). Numerous studies emphasize that architectural engineers should recognize their role within society (Shaw, Colley, and Connell, 2007). This perspective necessitates experts to assess building elements, including considering the number of occupants (Smith and Iversen, 2018). The policies also stipulate that buildings must adhere to specific standards during creation (Disalvo, Clement, and Pipek, 2012). The foundation, building spacing, and ventilation are common characteristics that require attention.
Based on the study of the policies, the main opposition to sustainable communities is the presence of pollution in a given area(DCLG, 2006). This issue can lead to the rise of problems like diseases and negative effects on the economic activities in an area (NC State University, 2010). Once an area is densely populated, there is a rise in competition that, in turn, leads to poor allocation of resources (Bibri and Krogstie, 2017).
Impacts of Sustainable Communities
In this case, the experts have considered a range of measures (Blechman, Davidson, and Kelly, 2017). First, they have considered creating economic activities such as tourism attraction centres that support the flow of income to the region (Clark, 2010). On the other hand, they have also considered creating better housing facilities supporting current and future generations (Blechman, Davidson, and Kelly, 2017).
Conclusion
The study sought to assess the role of UK planning systems in advancing sustainable communities within the region. The primary focus was on the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), the cornerstone for policies supporting community sustainability and development. The study successfully achieved its objectives, encompassing:
- Examine the strategies employed by UK planning systems to foster the development of sustainable communities.
- Evaluation of planning systems' impact on the design and creation of sustainable communities through construction.
- Establishment of the correlation between sustainable development and communities, particularly through architectural practices.
The findings underscored the significance of collaboration between private and public planning bodies in promoting regional sustainability. Notably, examples such as the Association for Environment Conscious Building (AECB) showcased the pivotal role played by the private sector in establishing sustainable buildings and communities in the UK.
Regarding policy administration, the United Kingdom adheres to European Union directives that advocate for green building and communities. For instance, new construction regulations, managed by the Energy Performance of Building Directives (EPBD), have been implemented, introducing mandatory certificates like the Building Energy Rating System (BER) for constructions exceeding 1000m2. This aligns with the study's overarching goal of demonstrating how UK planning systems promote regional sustainability.
Further Studies
Based on the provided study, it is crucial to provide further research on the policies that promote sustainable development and communities in the United Kingdom. The study has shown that the UK planning systems have established various regional sustainability mechanisms. Nonetheless, there is insufficient awareness of the guiding policies that would assist professionals and the government promote sustainability in the region (Maliene and Malys, 2009).
Appendix 1: Structural Model for Building a Sustainable Community
Appendix 2: The Place-making Approach for Building a Sustainable Community
Appendix 3: Mechanisms of building sustainable communities
Appendix 4: Environmental Sustainability Indicators
Appendix 5: Factors affecting sustainability in communities
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