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airfield(Transforming Airfields into Sustainable Urban Spaces)

Introduction

Airfields, being designated spaces for landing and taking off of aircraft, take up vast land areas and generate a range of environmental and socio-economic impacts. In many cases, some airfields h*e become redundant, le*ing the airports’ authorities and other stakeholders with the need to redevelop, reuse or repurpose the land occupied by these facilities. This article discusses some sustainable ways of transforming airfields into urban spaces that can meet current and future needs of cities.

Urban Agriculture

One way of transforming airfield land is through urban agriculture. Urban agriculture provides multiple benefits such as increasing access to fresh and locally grown produce, generating income and employment opportunities, reinventing community and cultural practices and fostering social cohesion. In converting airfields to urban agriculture, facilities such as greenhouses and processing units can be introduced to enhance production and improve the value chain. This can be done by leasing the land to farmers, community organizations or a public-private partnership.

Green Spaces

The conversion of airfields to green spaces is another way of sustaining these lands. Green spaces are not just aesthetically pleasing but also play vital roles in mitigating climate change impacts, promoting biodiversity, improving air and water quality and supporting human health and well-being. Former airfields can be transformed into parks, waterfronts, nature reserves or greenways. Such spaces can provide multiple recreational opportunities for urban dwellers, including biking, hiking, picnicking, bird-watching, and nature-induced therapies.

Renewable Energy and Waste Management Projects

Airfields h*e sizeable rooftops and vast open spaces, which are ideal for renewable energy installations such as solar panels and wind turbines. Such facilities can provide the much-needed power for the surrounding communities while reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, underutilized buildings, hangars and other structures can be converted into community waste management facilities, recycling centers or material recovery centers.

Smart Growth and Mixed-use Development

Airfields can be repurposed as mixed-use developments, providing opportunities for housing, commercial operations, and recreation. Mixed-use developments offer efficient land use, vibrant streetscapes, healthy social interaction, and lower environmental impacts. Moreover, these developments are designed to meet the urban density requirements, which optimize public transportation and enhance economic viability. Mixed-used development can leverage existing infrastructure to minimize sprawl and road congestion.

Transit-oriented Community Developments

Airfields can be transformed into transit-oriented community developments, providing a network of affordable and convenient transportation services. These developments are not only designed to improve accessibility and mobility but also provide housing options, public spaces, service centers, and economic opportunities. Transit-oriented developments promote the adoption of low-carbon mobility solutions, such as walking, cycling, and public transportation. Such developments offer a viable alternative to increasing road traffic congestion and dependence on private cars.

Conclusion

Airfields occupy vast land areas that can be repurposed to serve the developmental needs of cities sustainably. The various transformation options discussed above can be adopted either separately or in combination, depending on the prevailing contextual factors. The redevelopment of airfields can help meet the economic, social, and environmental goals of cities, such as enhancing liveability, improving resource efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and fostering equitable economic growth. The successful conversion of these lands requires a participatory and integrative approach that balances diverse stakeholder interests, promotes innovation, and adapts to changing needs and priorities.

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