Study from the University of Aveiro shows that more compact cities are more sustainable - the team includes a researcher from TEMA

A study conducted at the University of Aveiro concludes that cities with more compact growth patterns demonstrate better environmental performance and greater sustainability when compared to dispersed urban models. The research, applied to the Aveiro region, shows that scenarios with higher urban concentration reduce emissions associated with road traffic, shorten travel distances, and contribute to improved air quality.

The study is based on an urban sustainability eco‑indicator designed to integrate, into a single value, factors such as trip generation, road‑traffic emissions, meteorological modelling, and impacts on air quality. The use of this indicator made it possible to compare different urban scenarios and highlight the clear advantages of the “Independent City” model when compared with the “Dispersed City” scenario, which presented the poorest overall performance.

The research team includes Bruno Augusto, Ana Filipa Ascenso, and Joana Ferreira, from the Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) and the Department of Environment and Planning of the University of Aveiro; Margarida Coelho, from the Centre for Mechanical Technology and Automation (TEMA) and the same department; and Sandra Rafael, from the Institute of Environment and Development (IDAD).

The Study aims to support policy‑makers and entities responsible for urban planning, contributing to the development of more balanced, resilient, and healthy cities.