Articles
Nowak, M.J.,
Mitrea, A.,
Dühr, S.,
Gagakuma, D.,
Peña, S.,
Pierri-daunt, A.B.,
Khavarian garmsir, A.R. 2025 29th International Computer Conference, Computer Society of Iran, CSICC 2025pp. 19-31
This chapter includes a detailed explanation of the rationale behind the selection of countries and describes each case study. It presents the main lines of comparison among national spatial planning systems and highlights their limitations. This chapter also outlines the features of spatial planning instruments at the urban level, particularly focusing on spatial plans. The classifications made are then linked to the aims and research questions of the book. Following this, this chapter discusses the unique characteristics of the spatial planning systems in the countries under study, with an emphasis on their common features. It explains how these features should be described and related to the different systems of each country. Additionally, this chapter indicates the research limitations. © 2025 selection and editorial matter, Maciej J. Nowak; individual chapters, the contributors.
Nowak, M.J.,
Mitrea, A.,
Dühr, S.,
Gagakuma, D.,
Legutko-kobus, P.,
Peña, S.,
Pierri-daunt, A.B.,
Khavarian garmsir, A.R.,
Blaszke, M. 2025 29th International Computer Conference, Computer Society of Iran, CSICC 2025pp. 5-18
This chapter defines the key terms and theses that will be discussed subsequently. It provides a literature-based overview of the relationship between spatial planning and climate change adaptation. An in-depth analysis of climate challenges is followed by a theoretical framework for linking spatial planning instruments to these specific challenges. This chapter also identifies the main barriers from a theoretical perspective. Emphasis is placed on how urban areas respond to climate challenges, with a particular focus on the protection of green spaces. Additionally, this chapter examines the unique climate challenges faced in different parts of the world, including their varying intensities. © 2025 selection and editorial matter, Maciej J. Nowak; individual chapters, the contributors.
The United Nations launched the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015 to address a multitude of complex challenges facing today's world. Concurrently, the concept of smart cities has evolved to embrace advanced digital technologies and artificial intelligence for urban management and sustainability. Within this context, the Metaverse has emerged as a virtual extension of smart cities, offering a revolutionary space to reimagine urban life and governance. This systematic review explores how the Metaverse, as a virtual form of smart cities, aligns with the SDGs. It focuses on identifying potential co-benefits and trade-offs between the Metaverse and SDGs. The results indicate that research primarily focuses on SDGs related to health, education, innovation, sustainable cities, and responsible consumption and production. In contrast, less attention is given to SDGs related to reducing inequalities, climate change, environmental sustainability, peace, and partnership. The synthesis highlights the potential of the Metaverse to enhance smart cities' operational efficiency, transparency, and evidence-based decision-making through big data analytics and virtual collaboration. However, it also identifies risks such as exacerbating disparities and increasing environmental burdens. While the Metaverse can offer transformative solutions for smart urban environments, its benefits must be balanced with equitable access and environmental sustainability to effectively contribute to the SDGs. This requires addressing the digital and technological divide and environmental concerns to foster inclusive urban societies that uphold peace, justice, and strong institutions. The review underscores the need for strategic policy frameworks to mitigate risks and maximize the positive impact of the Metaverse on sustainable and resilient urban development. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd
