Abstract
Background and Purpos: The establishment of Region 22 in the early 1990s led to urban growth away from the center and linear development towards the west of Tehran. Over time, this area shifted towards urban sprawl and distancing from the center. The increase in population growth and the desire for residential space altered the growth pattern of the region; however, the principles of smart urban growth were overlooked. This resulted in the construction of high-rise buildings without appropriate land-use planning and diversification that supports social viability, that, the unconsidered urban pattern and the vast urban fabric have exacerbated the issues in Region 22. The aim of this study is to analyze the effects of smart growth on urban sustainability in Region 22 of Tehran
Methodology: This research is applied in nature and descriptive-analytical based on data collection. The research is divided into two phases. In the first phase, a review of the theoretical foundations and previous studies identified the dimensions and indicators of smart urban growth and their qualitative impact and importance on the area's sustainability, categorized into five groups with 38 distinct indicators. In the second phase, the DEMATEL technique based on the DANP (Decision-Making and Network Process) was used to examine the intensity of the relationships between the dimensions and indicators of smart urban growth. In this context, the interconnections and weights of the dimensions and indicators were determined through a survey of 30 urban experts and managers familiar with smart urban growth, using purposive sampling.
Findings and Discussion: The findings indicate that the managerial dimension, with a score of 0.043, is one of the most influential criteria for improving the sustainability of Region 22 in Tehran. Smart management is essential for optimal use of vacant lands and reducing challenges. Economic performance is also significantly influenced by management, contributing to better living conditions for residents and fostering sustainable growth. Social factors, such as social class mixing and population control, play a vital role in sustainability. Moreover, the spatial quality of the region, affected by economic and social issues, impacts residents’ satisfaction and quality of life. Environmental problems, including air pollution and climate change, require special attention and planning for smart urban growth. The development of green spaces and parks is recognized as a key factor in enhancing residents' quality of life, helping to reduce pollution and increase public satisfaction. Ultimately, coordination among economic, social, and spatial dimensions is essential for improving quality of life and sustainability in this area.
Conclusion: Smart urban growth, as a modern model of sustainable development, can enhance targeted management and planning across various spatial, economic, social, and environmental dimensions. This approach plays a crucial role in preventing unchecked urban expansion and improving social welfare and the environment. Research shows that managerial and environmental dimensions are key factors in smart urban growth. In the economic dimension, business diversity and varied housing types are recognized as among the most influential indicators. Socially, class mixing and balanced population density distribution are significant. Environmentally, the development of green spaces and pollution reduction are among the most important indicators. Additionally, unified urban management and optimal land use are also critically important. Ultimately, from the experts' perspective, spatial, social, and environmental dimensions are prioritized for enhancing social sustainability in the region. Consequently, proper management and spatial integration can play a significant role in improving the situation of Region 22 in line with the smart urban growth model, contributing to urban sustainability in terms of economic, social, and environmental aspects, and moving towards sustainable development.
Main Subjects
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