Sustainable Urban Planning: Stakeholder Perspectives on Resource Allocation Challenges

Abstract

Urban areas are increasingly confronted with the necessity of integrating sustainable practices into their planning and development to balance growth with environmental and social responsibility. This study aims to explore the perspectives of various stakeholders involved in urban planning regarding the challenges they face in resource allocation and sustainability, focusing on understanding these dynamics to improve urban sustainability practices. A qualitative research design was utilized, centering on semi-structured interviews to collect data from a diverse group of stakeholders, including urban planners, government officials, developers, community leaders, and environmental advocates. The study aimed for theoretical saturation to ensure comprehensive coverage of the issues, with data analysis conducted through thematic analysis to identify key themes and concepts within the stakeholders’ perspectives. The study identified five main themes reflecting the core challenges and considerations in sustainable urban planning: Regulatory Challenges, Economic Factors, Social Impact, Technological Advancements, and Environmental Considerations. Within these themes, detailed categories and concepts emerged, highlighting the complexities of zoning laws, funding mechanisms, community involvement, technological innovations, and environmental management strategies. The findings illustrate the multifaceted and interdependent challenges of sustainable urban planning. It emphasizes the need for adaptive regulatory frameworks, robust economic incentives, inclusive community engagement, innovative technological applications, and proactive environmental management. The study underscores the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach in crafting sustainable urban spaces that are resilient, equitable, and conducive to long-term environmental stewardship.