The housing shortage is putting pressure on urban densification, but what is the real impact on the health of residents? Researchers Mariëlle Beenackers (ErasmusMC) and Annemarie Ruijsbroek (RIVM) investigated how densification affects our living environment and our health. Their findings shed new light on the complex dynamics between the two.

Why this research?

According to urban planner Marianne Lefever (PosadMaxwan), the current approach to urban densification stems from a quantitative approach: build houses first and then think about the consequences. To explore whether densification can actually contribute to better health, Lefever spoke with researchers Mariëlle Beenackers and Annemarie Ruijsbroek.

The power of systemic thinking

The research takes a systems-based approach to urban densification. "Health in an urban environment does not work according to a simple cause-and-effect relationship; different factors constantly influence each other," Beenackers argues. For example, while densification can promote physical activity because it often brings more amenities within walking distance, it can also cause stress because of a lack of quiet, green spaces.

Valuable insights were shared in collaborative sessions with experts from disciplines as diverse as mobility, land use planning, and public health. "The systems model helps us make sense of this complexity," says Ruijsbroek. "But it is not a blueprint, it's a way of thinking with communities and developers about the possible impacts of urban decisions."

Social impact

A surprising finding of the study was the strong influence of social factors on well-being. Elements such as consulting with residents, adequate facilities and maintaining social cohesion were found to be essential to urban densification. "For example, the disappearance of meeting places can weaken the connection between neighborhood residents and lead to anonymity and stress," says Annemarie.

The researchers emphasize that the effects of densification may differ between groups of residents. Mariëlle: "People with lower incomes may experience the negative effects of densification more quickly. They are more likely to face an accumulation of stressors and tend to have less (financial) freedom to choose where to live, to reduce environmental stressors, or to influence changes in the neighborhood." The study also points out that sufficient green and quiet spaces are an important buffer against these negative effects, especially for vulnerable groups.

Balancing building and involving

PosadMaxwan regularly receives questions from municipalities and developers about how to make densification work in a healthy way. Beenackers says it is important to involve residents early in the process and to continue to invest in social and physical infrastructure even after new developments are completed. Ruijsbroek explains that densification can affect several areas: individual, social and physical. "We need to look not only at the physical environment," she says, "but also at how social networks develop and how things like exercise, sleep and recreation are affected."

Looking at the future

The cities of the future are being built today, and that requires careful decision-making. "Despite the pressure of housing shortages, we must avoid making hasty decisions that we will later regret," Beenackers warns. "Social structures can be destroyed quickly, but they take a long time to rebuild. Care must be taken to avoid long-term damage," she concludes.

Conclusion

Urban densification offers opportunities to make cities more sustainable and healthier, provided it is done thoughtfully. Research shows that an integrated approach, including both physical and social aspects, is essential for the well-being of residents. By paying attention to social dynamics and taking a long-term view, urban densification can have a positive impact on our health.