Green Horizons: Sustainable Urban Development for Malabe

Idea projektu

The "Green Horizons" project aims to address the rapid, unplanned development in Malabe, Sri Lanka, which has led to significant environmental degradation, including the loss of wetlands, reduced air and water quality, and increased flooding risks. By integrating sustainable practices and eco-friendly infrastructure, this project seeks to enhance the quality of life and well-being of Malabe's residents. The project leverages the natural ecosystem, particularly wetlands, to create a balanced urban environment that supports food security, reduces pollution, and provides recreational and cultural benefits.

Popis projektu

This project focuses on several key areas to create a sustainable and livable urban environment in Malabe: Wetland Restoration: Restoration of 20% of Malabe's land, currently covered by wetlands, to improve food security, flood protection, and air quality. Development of the canal system for transportation and livelihood opportunities​. Sustainable Building and Infrastructure: Incorporation of green covers and use of renewable energy sources like solar power to reduce CO2 emissions and the urban heat island effect. Design of buildings and infrastructure to promote social cohesiveness, economic development, and increased land value​. Mixed-Use Development: Encouragement of water-dependent and water-enhanced recreational, public, residential, and commercial uses that complement the natural ecosystem. Enhancement of public access to natural resources like rivers and wetlands, ensuring harmony with ecological systems​. Community and Economic Benefits: Creation of a city identity that includes cultural and recreational facilities, fostering community pride and asset development. Development of a diverse neighbourhood with various housing types and transportation alternatives, including public transit, walking, and cycling.

Technické informace

Wetland and Canal Integration: Restoration of wetlands and canals to enhance food security, provide flood protection, reduce air pollution, and create recreational spaces. Use of wetlands as CO2 traps and filters for particulate matter to improve public health​. Building and Infrastructure Specifications: Green cover development and use of electric and solar energy to reduce carbon emissions. Implementation of passive ventilation and covered parking to mitigate the heat island effect. Infrastructure designed to enhance social interaction, economic activity, and land value​. Urban Planning and Zoning: Restriction on building heights in preserved ecological areas to maintain scenic views and natural habitats. Mixed-use development planning to support active transportation and reduce dependency on cars​. Ecological and Community Impact: Integration of the ecological system with urban development to create sustainable and resilient urban spaces. Promotion of cultural, recreational, and economic activities that enhance the community's quality of life and environmental health​. This comprehensive approach ensures that Malabe develops sustainably, preserving its natural environment while fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for its residents.

Dilrukshika Ranjan, Chamath Gunasekara, Dakshina Wickramasinghe

SLIIT

Sri Lanka

Urbanismus

Projekt odevzdán

13. 07. 2024

Tag

Urbanismus Exhibition Center Pop Up Retail Shopping Mall Supermarket Cultural Center Gallery Observation Tower Pavillion Schools University Community Center Amusement Park Restaurant Information Center Sports Center Laboratory Research Facility Landscape + Planning
  • Playground
  • Parks
  • Public spaces
  • Gardens
  • Waterway
  • Cemetery
Residential
  • Apartment
  • Multi Unit Housing
  • Private House
  • Student Housing
Bridges Public transport Highway Marina and Ports Parking

Rada studentům

Green Horizons: Sustainable Urban Development for Malabe

This project presents a visionary and multidimensional approach to addressing the challenges of rapid urbanization and ecological degradation in Malabe, Sri Lanka. Rooted in a systems-thinking methodology, the design proposes an urban framework that leverages the natural wetland ecosystem to mitigate flooding, improve air and water quality, and support food security—all while enhancing the livability of the urban fabric. The intervention is structured around four key strategies: wetland restoration, green infrastructure, mixed-use zoning, and socio-cultural integration. Notably, the reintegration of 20% of existing wetlands into the urban grid, combined with an upgraded canal system for transport and livelihood, demonstrates a profound understanding of landscape-led urbanism. The zoning of recreational, commercial, and residential uses in harmony with ecological corridors reflects a mature and climate-responsive design ethic. The architectural and infrastructural components—including covered parking, passive ventilation, green roofs, and use of solar energy—are thoughtfully embedded in the spatial fabric, rather than appended as technical features. Furthermore, the emphasis on diversity in housing, accessibility to public transport, and pedestrian-oriented design supports social inclusion and long-term resilience. Overall, this is a well-researched, ecologically intelligent, and socially inclusive urban development model. It sets a high benchmark for sustainable planning in rapidly urbanizing tropical contexts.
20.03.2026

Tamer ElSerafi

Kategorie

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