The Multiple Potentials of Urban Brownfields

Abstract

The phenomenon of urban brownfields is significant throughout European metropolitan areas. In this chapter, we assess, both in qualitative and quantitative terms, the inherent potential of urban brownfields to provide a relevant and substantial densification strategy for metropolitan areas. First, we explore the various opportunities for improvement of the built environment offered by urban brownfields in terms of environment, society, and economics, which are the core principles of sustainable development. This analysis is, inter alia, a juxtaposition between urban brownfields and the compact and polycentric city model, adapted to the metropolitan area. While brownfield regeneration appears to be a relevant densification strategy, it nevertheless implies that a sufficient reserve of land is available to engage policymakers. Thus, we attempt to estimate the urban brownfield stock in three countries: the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and France. The data subsequently serves as a basis for our calculation of the theoretical construction potential of brownfield sites.

Perspectives of Using Sewage Sludge Char in CO2 Sequestration on Degraded and Brownfield Sites

“…Due to the omission of brownfield and decaying regions in non-EU countries and in some parts of the EU where reliable data are limited, these data may be underestimated. During the literature review, estimated quantitative data on brownfield sites were collated, which are summarized in the map below (Figure 1) [35][36][37]. These figures agree with the information contained in the European Commission's 2020 report, which, as previously mentioned, estimated that brownfield sites cover around 25,000 km 2 across Europe [34].…”

“…In the abovementioned study, land degradation was defined as the deterioration of soil, water, or ecosystem quality caused by either human activities or natural disasters. In contrast, according to the European Commission's 2020 report on sustainable transformation and recovery, it was estimated that brownfield sites cover about 25,000 km 2 across Europe [34][35][36][37]. The report also highlighted the importance of reusing brownfield sites to prevent urban sprawl and protect natural habitats.…”

Urban Forests and Green Areas as Nature-Based Solutions for Brownfield Redevelopment: A Case Study from Brescia Municipal Area (Italy)

“…Nevertheless, investors still prefer new locations when investing in development projects, targeting undeveloped land ("greenfields") that are free of many risks and uncertainties associated with brownfields [138]. This, ultimately, may result in increased land consumption and urban sprawl [139]. Brescia makes no exception in this regard, ranking second among municipalities in Lombardy and among provinces at the national level in terms of total annual land consumption [140]; greenfield sites are being developed, while large brownfields, such as the SIN Caffaro, have remained vacant for decades.…”

Brownfield land redevelopment strategies in urban areas

“…Brownfields' prime advantages are their central locations and pre-existing connections to infrastructure, including stormwater utilities and roadways, which save on infrastructure expenses (EPA, 2020). The location provides increased opportunity for mixed-use developments with possibilities to accommodate housing and retail outlets, offices, workshop spaces and shared public facilities such as parks (Rey et al, 2021). Generally, infrastructure costs are funded by taxpayers and thus incur no major expenses for private developers (De Sousa, 2000), with previously contaminated or derelict land considered more economically viable for developers than the development of greenfields (Kotval-K, 2016).…”