Assessing the Consolidation of Equity in the Urban Environment: Proposing Design Strategies by Using a Systematic Process

Abstract

Despite over two decades of equity applicability in an inclusive agenda, its attainment in urban areas remains disputable. That is why addressing the subject using one component would not be viable unless it remains inequitable. The main aim of this grounded theory research is to assess the relationship between equity analysis and the urban environment. Accordingly, this study highlights the significant concepts through three major views for achieving equity in urban settings based on conducting a systematic review of the relation. Thereafter, this study, through investigating modifying aspects based on relative approaches, methods, and models of applying equity in the urban context, revealed the eight key interventions into three comprehensive design strategies to rectify the gap between theory and practice. Consequently, the three comprehensive design strategies have been developed by an implementation process to outline the high level of equity in urban systems. The concept of equity has become necessary in the urban disciplines because the issue can raise concern regarding the effects of urban design on different social groups. Accordingly, the relationship between equity analysis and the urban environment has been assessed by proposing three comprehensive strategies. The strategies have been intended to simplify the relation, guide the reader in carrying out the assessment, and outline the high level of equity in urban systems. The results have been derived by integrating the theoretical outcomes and proposed modifications with the planning process to represent desired outcomes and reliable solutions. The developed strategies consolidate equity in the urban setting thru environmental stability, independent trips, and community involvement in the design process by applying the modifying factors as practical tools. The outcomes of this study can be useful for urban researchers, urban planners, and decision-makers interested in detecting effective solutions for achieving environmental equity in practice.