Reimagining post-industrial landscapes through the lens of sustainable development

Authors

  • Asma Mehan Texas Tech University (USA)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.69143/2464-9309/1772025

Keywords:

industrial heritage, cultural preservation, adaptive reuse, sustainability, resilience

Abstract

This paper investigates the adaptive reuse of industrial heritage within the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) ì framework, addressing preservation, sustainability, and community development challenges. Often neglected or underutilized, industrial heritage sites hold significant potential for transformation into vibrant spaces that address social, economic, and environmental needs. This study presents a multi-scalar methodology integrating participatory planning, design innovation, and resilience thinking. Structured in five main sections – including a literature review, theoretical positioning, methodological framework, empirical case studies, and a synthesis – the paper aligns its contributions with SDGs 3, 4, 5, and 11. The outcomes demonstrate that adaptive reuse can become a catalytic mechanism for sustainable urban growth, equitable community engagement, and reinforced cultural identity. Through critical analysis of literature, policy, and community-based design practices, the paper contributes an actionable framework for repurposing post-industrial landscapes in the post-2030 sustainability era.

 

Article info

Received: 26/03/2025; Revised: 18/04/2025; Accepted: 02/05/2025

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Author Biography

Asma Mehan, Texas Tech University (USA)

PhD, she is an Assistant Professor and Director of the Architectural Humanities and Urbanism Lab (AHU_Lab) at the Huckabee College of Architecture. She is also the Editor in Chief of PlaNext International Open Access Journal. Her research focuses on adaptive reuse, industrial heritage, urban resilience, and cultural heritage, combining innovative design approaches with sustainable development practices.
E-mail: asma.mehan@ttu.edu

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Published

30-06-2025

How to Cite

Mehan, A. (2025) “Reimagining post-industrial landscapes through the lens of sustainable development”, AGATHÓN | International Journal of Architecture, Art and Design, 17, pp. 120–129. doi: 10.69143/2464-9309/1772025.

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