International Journal of Human Capital in Urban Management
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Spatial and microclimatic evaluation of urban green spaces for sustainable revitalization using GIS and ENVI-Met: A case study of Kufa City center

Articles in Press

Document Type : ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE

Authors

A. F. Almudhaffer 1
Z. A. Nasar 1
S. K. Saleh 2
H. A. Saleh 1
N. J. Baqralsham 1
M. Ali Mohammed 3

1 Department of Urban Planning, College of Physical Planning, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq

2 Department of Architecture, College of Engineering, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq

3 Department of Construction and Projects, Presidency of Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University, Najaf, Iraq

Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: With the unplanned urban expansion witnessed in many cities, the problem of the deterioration of green public spaces and their loss of environmental and social roles has emerged, making the sustainable revitalization of these spaces an urgent necessity for improving the quality of urban life. This research aims to assess the current state of green spaces in an unplanned urban area, diagnose their shortcomings, and test the hypothesis that applying the principles of sustainable revitalization contributes to improving the environmental, social, and planning performance of these spaces.
METHODS: The research adopted a descriptive-analytical approach through the development of a theoretical framework addressing the concept of sustainable revitalization and urban public space, while drawing on global experiences to derive evaluation indicators. These indicators were applied using spatial analysis tools, field observation, and GIS software (ENVI-Met).
FINDINGS: Based on the study, the sustainable regeneration indicators identified for the ecosystems, namely vegetation cover, limited biodiversity, recycling, and thermal comfort, were weaker than in real-world scenarios. It was observed that government and industry management of resources was generally efficient, yet this situation contributed to a reduction in green sector efficiency. The analysis indicated clear shortcomings in the current performance of urban green spaces.
CONCLUSION: An alternative design for the study area based on a green cover and ecosystem approach was recommended when considering sustainable regeneration indicators in order to improve the overall health and sustainability of the green sector and thus urban landscapes. The research also concluded that sustainable regeneration, when used along with real-life planning and design, can support the regeneration of green zones and serve as a design model for green sector development in modern cities.

Keywords

Sustainable Revitalization
Green Sectors
urban life
ENVI-Met
GIS software
Subjects

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International Journal of Human Capital in Urban Management

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 30 August 2026

  • Receive Date 11 May 2026
  • Revise Date 31 July 2026
  • Accept Date 27 August 2026

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