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Human health and wellbeing in the urban built environment

Tsekeri Elisavet

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URI: http://purl.tuc.gr/dl/dias/A4574933-E772-4FBB-B0F2-ED629DF2AB19
Year 2025
Type of Item Doctoral Dissertation
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Bibliographic Citation Elisavet Tsekeri, "Human health and wellbeing in the urban built environment", Doctoral Dissertation, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, Chania, Greece, 2025 https://doi.org/10.26233/heallink.tuc.103171
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Summary

This PhD thesis investigates the complex interactions between urban environmental factors and public health outcomes in Chania, Greece, with a specific focus on quality of life (QoL) among residents. Through four studies, this research examines the role of environmental influences such as air pollution, noise pollution, and extreme temperatures on the Health and Wellbeing of the population.The first study investigates the relationship between extreme temperatures and elderly mortality, focusing on cardiovascular and respiratory diseases in the region of Chania. The study finds a strong association between temperature extremes and increased mortality rates among elderly populations, highlighting the vulnerability of this group to heat stress and cold spells. It recommends the implementation of climate adaptation strategies, including early warning systems and cooling interventions, to mitigate the health risks associated with extreme temperaturesThe second study assesses the QoL in Chania using the WHOQOL-BREF survey, identifying key factors that influence residents' physical and mental health, social relations, and environmental satisfaction. It highlights the importance of integrating QoL assessments into urban planning policies to improve environmental quality, public health, and social equity.The third study focuses on air pollution, utilizing bike-mounted sensors and bike stations to measure pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, NO₂, SO2, and CO across Chania. The results demonstrate significant seasonal variations in pollution levels, with higher concentrations observed during the winter months, primarily due to heating emissions. The study emphasizes the need for integrated air quality assessments in urban planning and policy development, recommending measures like expanding public transportation networks, enforcing emission control measures, and enhancing real-time air quality monitoring.The fourth study investigates noise pollution in Chania by utilizing both bike-mounted noise sensors and sensors on bike stations to analyze spatial and temporal variations in noise levels. The study finds that Chania's urban core experiences consistently high noise levels, particularly in winter, due to traffic congestion and commercial activity. It calls for adaptive noise mitigation measures such as traffic management, pedestrianization, and green infrastructure to reduce noise exposure and enhance urban livability.In conclusion, this PhD thesis underscores the critical need for integrated urban policies that address environmental stressors while promoting H&WB. By combining objective environmental data with subjective well-being assessments, this study provides actionable insights for urban planners and policymakers to create healthier, more sustainable cities. The findings suggest that enhancing the built environment, improving infrastructure, and fostering social cohesion can collectively improve the QoL of residents, particularly in urban areas with high pollution levels and limited access to green spaces. Future research should continue to explore the intersections between environmental exposure, public health, and social equity, with a particular focus on vulnerable populations and regions experiencing rapid urbanization.

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