Urban Planning and Air Quality: Assessing the Impact of Green Space Absence in Benghazi City
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Abstract
The rapid urban expansion in many developing cities has often occurred at the expense of environmental considerations, particularly the integration of green infrastructure. In the case of Benghazi city, in Libya, the absence of adequate green spaces within the urban fabric has raised growing concerns about deteriorating air quality and the associated health risks. This study investigates the relationship between the lack of green spaces and urban air pollution in Benghazi city, highlighting the implications for urban planning policies and public health.
Using a mixed-methods approach that combines spatial analysis of air quality data, and urban land use assessment, the study identifies critical areas where green infrastructure is missing and correlates this with elevated levels of pollutants such as PM10 and NO₂. The findings suggest that the limited presence of urban vegetation contributes significantly to poor air circulation, increased heat retention, and a higher concentration of airborne pollutants.
The research emphasizes the need for urban planners and policymakers to prioritize green infrastructure in future development strategies, not only to enhance environmental sustainability but also to mitigate health disparities and improve the overall urban quality of life.
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