Cultural landscape is a concept that characterizes the diversity of forms, urban structure, historical value and symbolic function, reflecting the fact that a cultural landscape is a materialized system that carries a variety of verbal, visual and physical aspects of human existence. This scientific paper is based on a definition of cultural landscape that consists of cultural layers which are often associated with the memory of place, and our research is based on Taylor’s definition and exploration of cultural landscapes. In terms of the linear dimension of human history, cultures interact, sometimes destroy and forget, but at the same time, the cultural layers are stacked, layered and acquired in various forms and features. The methodology is based on a qualitative case study with focus on challenges connected with transformation and recovery of area that carries traumatic legacy of the past. In the conclusion, the state of historical revitalization is presented.

In this paper, and via a case study in Waterloo, we explore policy’s role in encouraging green infrastructure (GI) adoption in Ontario universities. More specifically, we evaluate the relationship between policy and GI, and determine the policy level required to successfully implement GI. We employed a qualitative research approach of semi-structured, open-ended interviews (n=8) to understand better participants’ views towards existing GI policies and frameworks. We find that multi-level government collaboration, regulatory frameworks and incentives and funding mechanisms are key themes influencing GI adoption. Interviews revealed that municipal incentives are essential in encouraging GI implementation on a local scale. However, federal and provincial factors are also crucial for the long-term establishment of GI. We conclude that policy is essential, and that multi-level collaboration is required to implement GI across Ontario’s universities. With little published research there is in this area suggests the importance of government policy, especially at the municipal level, in terms of getting GI projects built. Yet, there are key gaps in our understanding, including the role of provincial and federal policy.

The scholarly community has been paying more attention to the issue of the revitalization of the historical conservation of cities and their alteration in the wake of Southern Italy’s growing urbanization. Experts and scholars are beginning to understand the need for collaborative urban regeneration initiatives, protecting historical and cultural elements, upholding cultural identities, and establishing development districts. The Valley of the Mills of Gragnano, the subject of the proposed case study, is a complex issue that requires the consideration of several factors in addition to urban regeneration. These factors include the need to identify a system of multiple actions to regenerate the area, considering the current requirements for mitigating environmental risk in areas with cultural heritage, and suggesting monitoring and public participation actions for preservation. The complexity of the Valley of the Mills renovation is understood; it goes beyond the simple structural and architectural restoration of the buildings. In other cities similar to Gragnano where industrial, historical archeology and naturalistic significance run the risk of adversely affecting an extremely significant area from a historical and cultural perspective due to naturalistic and anthropogenic impacts, the article’s goal is to present the case study of Gragnano as an example of a sustainable and moral urban renewal strategy. This research work aims to be proposed as a policy development guide for policy makers at local and regional levels for the development of the area.

By collecting and conducting in-depth analysis of official statistical data, empirical evidence, and exploring integrated artificial intelligence (AI) approaches in diverse African urban landscapes, this article examines the integration of formal and informal data to bolster urban resilience in Africa. It underscores the significance of this diverse data in crafting effective urban planning strategies tailored to the needs of African city-dwellers. The AI-driven analysis, amalgamating these datasets, provides a comprehensive understanding of urban realities and community needs in African cities. Additionally, the article emphasizes how harnessing so-called informal data-often overlooked yet crucial-alongside formal data enables more contextual and adaptive planning aligned with local needs and aspirations. Highlighting the transformative potential of data-driven approaches, the article presents AI strategies as proactive tools to address the challenges faced by African cities, fostering resilience amidst socio-economic and environmental shifts. Ultimately, it advocates for the integration of diverse data sources in urban planning, utilizing AI as a catalyst, underlining the importance of a holistic approach that values both formal and informal data for sustainable and resilient urban development in Africa.

This paper examined rural outdoor activity sites for children in Zhangye, Gansu Province, China. The study analyzed the characteristics of children’s groups and their behavioral patterns during outdoor activities in rural areas, and explored the factors affecting children’s engagement in outdoor activities. A questionnaire survey was conducted to assess the physical and mental health status of rural children in Gansu Province, the distribution of outdoor activity time, and the influence of activity venues on children. Based on the survey results in rural Zhangye, Gansu Province, activity venues and facilities suitable for rural children in Gansu were identified. Finally, five design principles were proposed (i.e., safety, fun, comfort, accessibility, and guiding) to cater to the activity preferences of rural children in Gansu, China and provide a nurturing environment that fostered their physical and mental growth.