Urban green spaces and public realm design in Cairo: Enhancing quality of life and environmental sustainability

Ahmed Ayman GalalElDin ElKousy *

Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
 
Review
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024, 13(01), 2034–2037.
Article DOI: 10.30574/ijsra.2024.13.1.1895
Publication history: 
Received on 28 August 2024; revised on 02 October 2024; accepted on 05 October 2024
 
Abstract: 
The paper explores the pressing challenges and promising initiatives in enhancing urban green spaces and the public realm in Cairo, a metropolis grappling with rapid population growth and environmental degradation. As the city struggles with density, air pollution, and a shortage of green areas—far below the recommended standard for urban health—the article highlights key efforts to revitalize public spaces. Notable projects include the creation of large parks like Al-Azhar Park, the redevelopment of the Nile riverfront through projects such as Mamsha Ahl Misr, and the introduction of green infrastructure solutions like street trees, green roofs, and sustainable urban drainage systems.
Despite these advancements, Cairo faces significant obstacles, including limited public land, budget constraints, and water scarcity. However, there are opportunities to address these challenges through innovative urban agriculture, public-private partnerships, and community participation in green space development. The paper suggests that through continued investment and thoughtful urban design, Cairo can foster a more sustainable, livable environment. By integrating green infrastructure into future development projects, the city holds potential to transform its landscape and improve the quality of life for its residents in the coming decades.
 
Keywords: 
Urban green spaces; Air pollution; Water scarcity; Nile riverfront; Urban design; Sustainable environment; Quality of life.
 
Full text article in PDF: 
 
Copyright information: 

Copyright © 2024 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0