Urbanism as blue infrastructure
Introduction
The term blue space (or blue infrastructure) used in urban planning refers to outdoor areas accessible to the public that have reflecting pools integrated into the landscape. In conjunction with green spaces (parks, gardens, etc. specifically: urban open space), these areas can help reduce certain risks of diseases related to high urban temperatures (urban heat island).[1]
Often, blue spaces are naturally integrated into the geography of many cities due to their historical geopolitical importance, as is the case with the example of the River Thames in London.[2].
Blue spaces can help revitalize neighborhoods and promote social interaction, as seen in riverfront urban renewal projects such as the Chattanoga Waterfront in Chattanoga, TS, USA, CityDeck in Greenbay, WI, USA, or Brooklyn Bridge Park in New York, NY, USA. Festivals that temporarily increase social interaction are often held in these places, as is the case with the Christmas lights festival in Medellín, in Colombia.[3] Building health assessment and certification guides - such as WELL[4] or Fitwel,[5] suggest incorporating design elements that contain water as a strategy to improve the health and well-being of building occupants.[6][7].
Neighborhoods with access to attractive natural spaces are susceptible to gentrification, so that the social benefits associated with blue spaces are in many cases distributed unequally, with Environmental Justice areas lacking access to quality blue spaces.[8][9].
Health benefits of blue spaces
Proximity to aquatic landscapes can carry certain risks for humans, including the transmission of diseases through water, flooding, or drowning.[10][11][12] But scientific evidence shows that exposure to blue spaces is also associated with a variety of health benefits for people who live or spend time near these areas.[13][14] One of the mechanisms by which this phenomenon can be explained is called “the Biophilia” developed by Edward O. Wilson. This theory proposes that humans have developed a strong connection with nature during their evolution that leads to the desire to be surrounded by natural environments, including green and blue spaces. Other more recent theories propose three main exposure pathways that help explain why proximity to green and blue spaces can be beneficial for human health. One of these pathways -- explains these health benefits in relation to the physical improvements that natural environments bring to the built environment, such as the reduction of urban heat island, air pollution or traffic noise. A second path -- focuses on health improvements associated with increased physical activity and social connectivity promoted by natural spaces. The final pathway - -explains how the calming characteristics of natural environments can reduce negative feelings and increase cognitive renewal.[15].