Identifying Dimensions and Indicators Influencing Environmental Sustainability in Housing Development Programs: A Case Study of Kouy-e Zangan, Zanjan City

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD Student, Department of Urban Planning, Qazvin Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qazvin, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Department of Urban Planning, Qazvin Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qazvin, Iran

10.22034/gp.2026.70856.3497

Abstract

Objective: Rapid global population growth and rising demand for affordable housing have made urban housing planning a critical challenge for developing nations. This crisis not only diminishes residents’ quality of life but also triggers severe environmental degradation—depleting natural resources, polluting air/water, accelerating climate change, and destabilizing ecosystems. Many current housing initiatives neglect ecological considerations, underscoring the urgent need for a holistic framework to assess and mitigate environmental impacts during project design and execution.

Methods: This study applies descriptive-analytical methods paired with advanced tools (foresight modeling and MICMAC analysis) to examine environmental drivers in low-income housing. Focusing on Iran’s Kouy-e Zangan settlement, it identifies pivotal factors: sustainable material sourcing, water/energy management, disaster-resilient design, and compliance with environmental regulations.

Results: These elements are shown to minimize negative externalities and enhance long-term sustainability. Additionally, reviews of global and local precedents highlight that effective policymaking, cross-sector collaboration, and coherent legal structures are essential for scaling sustainable housing.

Conclusions: Complementary enablers include stakeholder engagement, stringent environmental benchmarking, and innovative construction technologies—all vital for resilient, eco-friendly solutions. Policymakers are urged to adopt data-driven strategies rooted in sustainability metrics and systematic analysis. Such measures will optimize resource use, shrink environmental footprints, and advance equitable urban development while improving living standards.

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Journal of Geography and Planning

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 25 June 2026

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