Climate-Responsive Urban Design: Innovations and Strategies for Sustainable Buildings and Construction in Afghanistan

Abstract

The global challenge of climate change resonates profoundly across diverse sectors, notably urban development and construction standing prominently in its ripple effects. The complex integration of architecture, planning, and landscape elements in urban development aims to sculpt functional and sustainable cities. Within the context of Afghanistan, the responsibility for applying climate-responsive regulations and policies falls upon the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA). This study employs a descriptive research method to scrutinize the implementation and alignment of NEPA's regulations, policies, and strategies in the current urban landscape. The findings show a significant shift from past building practices to contemporary global norms, indicating a noteworthy exploration and adaptation within the construction industry. There is also a significant deficiency in local awareness, leading to shortcomings in climate innovations and strategies, revealing a notable gap between construction practices and the adoption of climate-responsive measures. Furthermore, a remarkable shortfall exists in aligning urban elements with sustainable building principles, prompting concerns regarding the sustainability and construction standards established by NEPA. A critical focal point emerges in the form of uncontrolled carbon emissions in urban areas, primarily originating from heating and cooling systems, transportation, waste management, and industrial factories, leading to significantly impactful high emissions that affect local temperature and precipitation, resulting in changes to living conditions.