From a global perspective: Urban Renewal and Rural Revitalization

Urban-Rural Linkages 11 July 2024

From a global perspective Urban Renewal and Rural Revitalization

Dr. Remy Sietchiping, the Chief of Policy, Legislation and Governance Section, Urban Practices Branch, UN-HABITAT.

Could you elaborate on what urban regeneration and rural revitalization mean on a global scale?

Additionally, is this approach critical for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) from the perspective of UN-Habitat?

We believe that territorial transformation is inevitable regardless of urban, peri-urban or rural sections. In urban settings, regeneration is often used to refer to the spatial redevelopment to improve their physical, economic, and social functions. Through the renovation process, one can witness operations such as repurposing or upgrading of infrastructure, services, valorization of natural and cultural heritage, enhancing or reclaiming public spaces, and vitalizing economic activities etc. Urban regeneration also has the potential to bring back underutilized assets and redistribute opportunities, stimulting urban prosperity and improving of life.

When urban regeneration is included in the urban planning toolkit and process, it can indeed promote socio-spatial city-wide inclusion and sustainability. At UN-Habitat, we encourage urban regeneration that ensures affordability, access to basic services and involvement of residents to promote local economic development, where public space is a key element of interventions, and cities reduce environmental impact and GHG emissions. It is recognized as one of the most comprehensive and effective processes that governments can apply to promote more resilient and safe urban areas. An example of urban regeneration is the High Line in New York City, where an abandoned elevated railway was transformed into a vibrant linear park, spurring economic development and revitalizing surrounding neighborhoods.

Urban-Regeneration Green Building Facade Details In Barcelona, Spain. By radub85

On the other hand, rural revitalization focuses on improving living conditions, infrastructure, and economic opportunities in deprived and neglected rural areas and support sustainable development. This may involve (re)investments in agriculture, healthcare, education, and infrastructure to spur thriving rural communities. UN-Habitat values the strengthening of urban-rural linkages which is one of the relevant collective actions to revitalize. China’s “Rural Revitalization Strategy” is a notable example, aiming to boost rural economies, improve living standards, and bridge the urban-rural development gap.

Engineer using drone for top view inspection wind turbine farm and Solar farm. By Aiqing

From the perspective of UN-Habitat, both urban regeneration and rural revitalization are critical for advancing territorial development, the Sustainable Development Goals （SDGs. Urban areas are hubs of economic activity, innovation, and cultural exchange, but they also face challenges like poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. Similarly, rural revitalization is essential for achieving SDG 1（No Poverty）and SDG 2 （Zero Hunger） among others by ensuring that rural populations have access to adequate food, employment opportunities, and basic services.

Furthermore, both approaches contribute to SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by addressing disparities between urban and rural areas and promoting balanced regional development. By fostering vibrant urban and rural communities, countries can create opportunities for all residents to lead contented lives and contribute to sustainable development. Therefore, UN-Habitat emphasizes the importance of integrated urban-rural revitalization and development strategies to achieve the SDGs and create a more equitable and sustainable future.

In your view, what are the crucial elements or key points that should be emphasized when practicing urban regeneration and rural revitalization?

Urban regeneration and rural revitalization are the integral components of sustainable development strategies worldwide. As urbanization accelerates and rural areas face challenges such as migration and quality of life, it becomes imperative to focus on revitalizing both urban and rural spaces to create more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities.

Some of the elements to consider include:

Community Engagement and Participation: It is essential to involve local communities, stakeholders, and residents in the planning and decision-making processes. Their insights,needs, and aspirations should inform the regeneration or revitalization initiatives. This fosters a sense of ownership and ensures that interventions meet their needs.

Integrated Planning and Collaboration: Coordination among various sectors and government agencies is vital to address complex urban and rural challenges comprehensively. Integrated planning approaches that consider social, economic, environmental, and cultural factors are crucial. For instance, in urban regeneration a useful element is the mixed use development that integrates residential, commercial, recreational, and cultural amenities to promote vibrant and sustainable urban environments.

Sustainable Development and Environmental Considerations: Urban regeneration and rural revitalization should prioritize sustainability by promoting eco-friendly practices, green infrastructure, and energy-efficient technologies. For example, incorporating green spaces and renewable energy sources into urban regeneration and rural revitalization projects can mitigate environmental impacts and enhance quality of life. Similarly, sustainable land management practices, such as conservation agriculture, afforestation, and land-use planning, can play a vital role in revitalization programmes by preserving natural resources, enhancing ecosystem resilience, and mitigating climate change impacts.

Economic Viability and Livelihood Opportunities: A focus on creating economic opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship, and supporting local businesses is essential for the long-term success of regeneration and revitalization efforts. For instance, establishing business incubators or vocational training programs can stimulate economic growth and job creation in both urban and rural areas. Rural revitalization efforts should also focus on diversifying local economies beyond traditional agriculture to create new sources of income and employment while also supporting agricultural innovations. Supporting small-scale entrepreneurship, promoting agrotourism, and investing in rural industries such as renewable energy and artisanal crafts can stimulate economic growth and reduce dependence on agriculture.

Infrastructure Upgrades and Access to Services: Improving infrastructure, including transportation, healthcare, education, and utilities, is critical for enhancing the quality of life and attracting investment in revitalized urban and rural areas. Investing in infrastructure upgrades and expanding service provision enhances the livability and attractiveness of rural areas, making them more conducive to economic activity and human flourishing. For example, upgrading roads and public transportation systems can improve connectivity and accessibility for the population and businesses as well.

Preservation of Cultural Heritage and Identity: Urban regeneration and rural revitalization should respect and preserve the cultural heritage, traditions, and identity of communities. Integrating historic preservation initiatives, cultural festivals, and arts programs can foster a sense of pride and belonging among residents. Integrating heritage assets such as historic buildings and landmarks into redevelopment projects adds richness and authenticity to urban spaces while maintaining a sense of continuity with the past.

Inclusive and Equitable Development: Ensuring that regeneration and revitalization initiatives benefit all segments of the population, including vulnerable and marginalized groups, is essential for promoting social cohesion and reducing inequalities. Measures such as affordable housing policies, social inclusion programs, and equitable access to services can help create more inclusive communities.

Given UN-Habitat’s focus on localizing SDGs worldwide, are there specific practices for urban regeneration and rural revitalization that you would like to highlight based on your extensive experience?

I would like to share two experiences one is an urban regeneration project by UN-Habitat in Mexico and secondly is an initiative in Africa, Latin America and Asia by the IEEE（Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers）Smart Village initiative.

Parque de La Equidad (Equity Park), Mexico embodies a comprehensive participatory approach aimed at creating a symbol of identity for the city while fostering social, urban, and environmental integration. Spanning 16km and 61.8 hectares, the park’s vision emphasized its role as a green and social infrastructure network supporting regeneration processes. Equity Park was designed and implemented in line with SDG11 and has been recognized as an SDG Good Practices project. It was conceived through a highly participatory planning process that integrated stakeholders from a wide range of social sectors, with a particular emphasis on local inhabitants.

Participatory activities with local communities. [UN-Habitat/MexicoOffice]

The participation process includes technical consultations, online workshops, community involvement, and activities tailored to specific groups. The conceptual design process integrated inputs from the participatory phase to inform zoning, programming, and design guidelines. A toolbox approach facilitated the creation of a network of public spaces, addressing challenges such as the expectation of pre-defined designs and the need for spatial quality and connectivity. The project also incorporated a Land Value Capture process to finance beyond existing government budgets. This involved identifying growth areas, valuating land, and proposing mechanisms like changes in land use and increased density. The park provides a common space for cultural exchange and growth in the community to more than 200,000 people.

IEEE Smart Village (ISV) has a unique approach to support the world’s energy-impoverished communities by providing a comprehensive solution combining renewable energy, community based education, and entrepreneurial opportunities. ISV provides seed-funding to carefully selected community entrepreneurs based upon a credible business plan that will impact significant number of people with electricity, education and jobs. The initiative focuses on leveraging technology to improve the quality of life for people in underserved areas. Far beyond the mere provision of energy, the ISV stands as a testament to the power of education and the catalyzation of sustainable businesses within the energy sector. Its holistic approach encompasses not only the installation of energy infrastructure but also the empowerment of local communities through educational initiatives and the establishment of viable enterprises. By fostering a self-sustaining ecosystem, the initiative aims to break the shackles of energy deprivation and catalyze comprehensive development in these often-overlooked regions. They have impacted several communities in countries such as Benin, Cameroon, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, South Sudan, Zambia, Haiti, Ecuador, Honduras, India, Bangladesh and Vietnam.

Jude Numfor installing solar panels in remote Cameroon. Photo courtesy of REIc.

In essence, the IEEE Smart Village initiative stands as a testament to the power of technological innovation and compassionate human ingenuity. It illuminates not just homes but the future of those dwelling in the shadows of energy poverty, embodying the spirit of progress and sustainable development in the heart of communities in the global south.

Considering China’s unique context, what suggestions or recommendations do you have for effective urban regeneration and rural revitalization strategies in the Chinese context? How does UN-Habitat envision engaging in the knowledge exchange of urban regeneration and rural revitalization through our journal? Are there specific approaches or initiatives that UN-Habitat plans to implement to facilitate this exchange of valuable insights?

UN-Habitat envisions engaging in knowledge exchange on both urban regeneration and rural revitalization through the Shanghai University journal by implementing territorial approaches and initiatives aimed at facilitating this exchange of valuable insights.

Knowledge Sharing Platforms: UN-Habitat may utilize existing or establish knowledge sharing platforms, such as webinars, workshops, and conferences, where experts can present their research findings, case studies, and best practices related to urban regeneration and rural revitalization. A good example is the internation forum on urban-rural linkages held biannually in Songyang County, China.
Joint Publications：UN-Habitat and Shanghai University could co-publish articles, reports, and policy briefs in the Shanghai University journal, showcasing research outcomes, lessons learned, and policy recommendations in the field of urban-rural linkages, rural revitalization and related intersections.
Capacity Development Programs: UN-Habitat could offer a variety of capacity development programs, training sessions virtual or in-person for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers affiliated with Shanghai University to enhance their knowledge and skills in urban regeneration from UN-Habitat perspective.
Networking and Collaboration Opportunities: UN-Habitat could facilitate networking and collaboration opportunities between researchers, students, and professionals from Shanghai University and its global network of partners working on urban-rural linkages and sustainable urban development in general.
Community Engagement Initiatives: UN-Habitat could support community engagement initiatives led by Shanghai University to involve stakeholders, residents, and communities in urban regeneration and rural revitalization projects, fostering participatory decision-making and inclusive development processes.
Policy Dialogue and Advocacy: UN-Habitat and Shanghai University could organize policy dialogues and advocacy campaigns to raise awareness, mobilize support, and influence policy agendas at the local, national, and international levels on issues related to urban regeneration and rural revitalization.
International Conferences and Symposia: UN-Habitat could partner with Shanghai University to organize events at international conferences (for instance World Urban Forums, UN-Habitat Assembly, international forums on urban-rural linkages), symposia, or academic exchanges dedicated to the subject matter. These events would provide opportunities for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to share their research findings, experiences, and best practices.

(Q&A Session Contributed by Li Fengqing, Vice President of Shanghai Institute of Urban Renewal and Sustainable Development, Shanghai University and Deputy Editor-in-Chief of this Journal)

Source: Shanghai University

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From a global perspective Urban Renewal and Rural Revitalization

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