A missing fifth sustainability dimension (wellbeing and health) when describing eco-districts

¹ College of Engineering, Industrial Engineering Department, University City, PO Box 26666, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
² College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, University City, PO Box 26666, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

^* Corresponding author: g00091914@aus.edu

Abstract

This study aims at examining whether wellbeing and health should be considered as a fifth dimension of sustainable eco-districts. This study assesses the four dimensions of sustainable eco-districts (energy, socio-economic, mobility, urban design) and nine categories of health & wellbeing (physical, emotional, financial, intellectual, career, social, creative, environmental, spiritual) to understand the benefit of incorporating wellbeing and health. A thorough systematic review literature analysis was conducted using secondary data sources, including academic literature, industry reports, and government publications to compile available data. To categorize and find patterns in the data, thematic analysis was used. According to the research, there has to be a relationship between the growing number of hospital-led certified eco-districts and a fifth dimension of sustainable eco-districts (wellbeing and health) in order for residents of these communities to lead healthy lifestyles that support all facets of their wellness. This study adds to the existing body of knowledge and further investigates the impact of including wellbeing and health into sustainable eco-district design and construction. It sheds light on the importance of incorporating quantitative and qualitative techniques and the use empirical data gathering techniques for research studies.