Urban Environment and Health

In the rapidly urbanizing world of the 21st century, cities have emerged as the defining habitat for human existence—complex ecosystems where built environments, natural systems, social dynamics, and human health are inextricably intertwined. As urban populations continue to expand globally, the relationship between metropolitan environments and human wellbeing has become one of the most critical frontiers in our collective pursuit of sustainable, equitable development. This comprehensive exploration delves into the multifaceted domains of Urban Environmental Studies, Urban Health, and City Livability—examining how the physical, social, and ecological dimensions of urban spaces fundamentally shape population health outcomes, quality of life, and environmental sustainability. The narrative of urban environmental health transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries; it encompasses the intricate connections between urban design, ecological systems, public health infrastructure, and social determinants that collectively define the healthfulness of city living. By examining the complex interplay between environmental exposures, built environment characteristics, healthcare access, and community resilience, this book illuminates how cities can function either as amplifiers of health inequities or as platforms for promoting wellbeing across diverse populations. Readers will journey through the multidimensional landscapes where urban health manifests—from the microscale of indoor air quality and neighborhood walkability to the macroscale of urban heat islands and metropolitan food systems—while exploring innovative approaches that cities worldwide are adopting to create more livable, healthy, and environmentally sustainable urban futures.