A framework of biophilic urbanism for improving climate change adaptability in urban environments

Abstract

This study proposes a framework of biophilic urbanism that focuses on the adaptation of climate change, which is a representative urban problem facing modern cities. We derived a basic framework of biophilic urbanism by analyzing and reviewing the concepts and strategies of biophilic urbanism presented in previous studies. Based on this review, an advanced biophilic urbanism framework is suggested to examine the application of biophilic elements in cities. The framework consists of (1) the spatial range divided into region and city, neighborhood and street, and building and (2) the degree of biophilic method, which includes the natural, technical, and functional method. In addition, the representative biophilic elements for climate change adaptation are categorized using the framework. This framework provides an opportunity to identify and supplement the lack of biophilic elements in a city by enabling a systematic review of the biophilic elements according to the various spatial ranges and biophilic methods. Therefore, biophilic elements can be effectively applied within a city, and it is possible to create an environment where humans can experience various benefits as well as obtain psychological stability from nature.