Introduction:
The global housing crisis stands as one of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century, with profound implications for societal well-being, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. Rapid urbanization, population growth, and economic disparities have placed unprecedented pressure on housing systems worldwide. Moreover, the increasing frequency and severity of climate-related events, exacerbated by anthropogenic climate change, further compound the urgency of finding sustainable and resilient housing solutions.
At the heart of this crisis lies the dual imperative of sustainability and affordability. Sustainable housing practices are essential for mitigating the environmental impacts of urbanization, reducing carbon emissions, and safeguarding natural resources. However, achieving sustainability must not come at the expense of affordability, as housing affordability remains a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of social equity. The challenge, therefore, is to reconcile these seemingly divergent goals to create housing that is not only environmentally sustainable but also economically viable and socially inclusive.
In response to these challenges, researchers, practitioners, and policymakers around the world are pioneering innovative approaches to housing design, construction, financing, and management. From the development of eco-friendly building materials to the implementation of smart city concepts, from community-led housing initiatives to the integration of digital technologies, a wide array of strategies are being explored to address the complex interplay of sustainability and affordability in housing.
This special issue of the International Journal for Housing Science and its Applications seeks to showcase the latest advancements in the field and foster interdisciplinary dialogue on sustainable and affordable housing. By bringing together researchers from diverse backgrounds, architecture, urban planning, engineering, economics, sociology, and beyond we aim to generate new insights, share best practices, and catalyze innovation in the pursuit of housing solutions that are both environmentally responsible and socially equitable.
Through a combination of empirical research, theoretical analysis, case studies, and policy discussions, this special issue will explore key themes and topics at the forefront of the global housing agenda. From the adoption of green building standards to the implementation of inclusive housing policies, from the use of renewable energy technologies to the promotion of community-driven development initiatives, we invite contributions that offer fresh perspectives and actionable recommendations for addressing the housing challenges of the 21st century.
In doing so, we hope to not only advance scholarly knowledge in the field but also provide practical insights and actionable guidance for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders working to create a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient built environment. Together, we can build a future where housing is not only a place to live but also a foundation for thriving communities, vibrant economies, and a healthier planet.
Scope and Topics:
This special issue will focus on the intersection of sustainability and affordability in housing. We invite contributions that explore, but are not limited to, the following topics:
- Sustainable Building Materials and Technologies:
– Development and implementation of eco-friendly construction materials
– Innovative construction techniques for energy efficiency and sustainability
– Case studies on the adoption of sustainable practices in housing projects
- Affordable Housing Solutions:
– Economic models and financing strategies for affordable housing
– Policy frameworks and governmental initiatives promoting affordable housing
– Community-based approaches to housing affordability
- Urban Planning and Design:
– Smart city concepts and their application in housing
– Integration of green spaces and public amenities in residential areas
– Adaptive reuse of existing structures for sustainable housing
- Social and Economic Impacts:
– Analysis of social equity in housing access and affordability
– The role of housing in enhancing community resilience and social cohesion
– Impacts of affordable housing on local economies and quality of life
- Technological Innovations:
– Role of digital technologies (e.g., BIM, IoT) in housing design and management
– Advances in prefabrication and modular housing solutions
– Smart home technologies and their contribution to sustainability
- Climate Resilience and Adaptation:
– Housing designs that enhance resilience to climate change impacts
– Strategies for retrofitting existing housing stock for better energy efficiency
– Disaster-resistant housing solutions
Submission Guidelines:
Authors are invited to submit original research articles, review papers, case studies, and technical notes. Manuscripts should be prepared according to the journal’s guidelines and will undergo a rigorous peer-review process to ensure the highest quality of published research. Please submit your paper directly to any guest editor via their email address. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for all authors is $650 USD.
Important Dates:
– Submission Deadline: November 30, 2024
Guest Editors:
Guest Editor (s):
- Dr. Bradha Madhavan
Rathinam Research Centre, Rathinam Technical Campus, Coimbatore
Email: bradha.physics@rathinam.in, bradhaaraj@gmail.com
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.co.in/citations?hl=en&user=QJ0SOPYAAAAJ
- Dr. Yuvaraj Subramanian
University of Uslan, South Korea
Email: yuvarajs22@yahoo.com,
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.co.in/citations?user=t9nd_50AAAAJ&hl=en
- Prof. Mario Di Nardo
Department of Chemical, Materials, and Industrial Production Engineering,
University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
Email: mario.dinardo@unina.it
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=IHj3wRYAAAAJ&hl=it
Conclusion:
This special issue aims to provide a comprehensive platform for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to share their insights and findings on sustainable and affordable housing. By bringing together a diverse range of perspectives and expertise, we hope to contribute to the development of innovative solutions that address the global housing crisis.