Healthy Cities: Barcelona Leading with Well-being-Centric Urban Planning
Among “healthy cities,” Barcelona stands out as a leading example, driving a health-centric planning approach that is redefining the interaction between the urban environment and quality of life.
Traditional urban planning has primarily focused on physical infrastructure. However, as discussed in our SmartCities article, an innovative vision, powered by technology and data analysis, positions the city as a key determinant of health. This health-focused planning transcends the mere provision of healthcare services, actively shaping the city as an engine for the physical and mental well-being of its inhabitants.
The world is urbanising at a rapid and relentless pace. According to the World Health Organization, over half of the global population lives in urban areas, and this figure is expected to reach 70% by 2050. This rapid growth presents significant challenges for public health, as cities can concentrate risk factors such as air pollution, noise, lack of access to green spaces, and physical inactivity.
However, as the World Health Organization also emphasises, robust urban policies that prioritise health are essential for fostering adequate urban livelihoods and creating resilient and vibrant communities, enabling mobility, promoting social interaction, and protecting vulnerable populations. The World Health Organization actively supports cities in this effort through initiatives like the Healthy Cities network. In this context, Barcelona positions itself as an example to follow.
The implementation of sensor networks and the Internet of Things (IoT) are key tools in this strategy. In Barcelona, as in other pioneering cities, these systems monitor air quality, noise levels, and water purity in real-time. This information allows for a swift response to public health risks, identifying critical areas.
Simultaneously, urban design is being reoriented towards promoting physical activity. Encouraging walking, developing cycling infrastructure, and integrating green spaces are priorities. Barcelona’s “Superilles” (Superblocks) programme exemplifies this, reclaiming public space for pedestrians and cyclists, reducing pollution, and improving community well-being.
Technology is also expanding into telemedicine. AI for diagnostics, digital health records, and smart hospitals are part of this evolution. AI analyses large volumes of data (environmental, health, mobility, socio-economic) to identify trends, detect vulnerabilities, and design effective interventions.
BIM in Healthy Urban Planning: Modelling Cities for Well-being
In this context, Building Information Modelling (BIM) is emerging as a fundamental methodology for the planning and management of urban infrastructure focused on health. BIM, traditionally used for buildings, is now being applied to the city as a whole, offering a comprehensive and collaborative vision.
Creating intelligent digital models with BIM that integrate geometric data with relevant information is not new; what is most interesting about its incorporation into urban planning is that we can manage urban elements, including environmental and health data. This virtual representation allows for the simulation and analysis of the impact of different designs on health and well-being before construction.
Examples of BIM usage for healthy cities:
Natural Light and Ventilation Optimisation: Detailed BIM models allow for the simulation of solar radiation and airflow to reduce the need for artificial systems.
Strategic Green Space Location: BIM tools can analyse the accessibility, size, and distribution of green spaces, simulating their impact on air quality and urban heat mitigation.
Active Mobility Network Design: BIM models with topographical and accessibility data enable the design of safe and efficient pedestrian and cyclist routes.
Environmental Impact Simulation: BIM allows for the simulation of how urban projects affect air quality, noise, and water management, facilitating informed decisions about potential negative impacts on public health.
Barcelona is exploring the potential of BIM to integrate health into its urban projects. The ability to visualise and analyse the impact of design decisions on citizens’ health represents a significant step forward.
However, challenges exist. Ensuring equitable access to benefits, avoiding gentrification and digital exclusion, are crucial. The ethical management of health data, cross-sector collaboration, and public participation are fundamental to the success of this transformation.
In conclusion, health-focused planning redefines the role of the city. Its physical form and technological systems are becoming health infrastructure. Investing in green spaces, active mobility, and health technologies is investing in citizen well-being, requiring collaboration and new funding models to create cities that are not only smart, but healthy and equitable.