Social, economic and environmental benefits of 15-minute cities: A case study analysis

Abstract

The 15-minute city concept centers on the accessibility of essential resources and services within a 15-minute walk or bike ride. This model is increasingly gaining recognition as a cornerstone of sustainable urban development. The 15-minutes city concept emphasizes the creation of compact, multifunctional urban spaces designed to meet the daily needs of residents while reducing reliance on long-distance transportation. The goal of the paper is to show how the concept of 15-minute city is perceived by authorities from different cities presented in the case studies of the paper. This paper explores the social, economic, and environmental benefits of adopting the 15-minute city model, analyzing its implications for residents' quality of life and the natural environment. Socially, 15-minute cities promote greater community integration, enhance mental well-being, and encourage increased physical activity by providing accessible and inclusive urban environments. The proximity of local services and infrastructure further bolsters local economies, mitigates social inequalities, and improves public safety. Economically, this urban planning model supports small businesses, lowers transportation costs for residents, generates employment opportunities, and increases property values by offering improved access to essential services and green spaces. From an environmental perspective, the 15-minute city contributes to significant reductions in carbon emissions by decreasing dependence on car transportation and encouraging sustainable mobility options such as walking, cycling, and public transit. Drawing upon case studies and existing research, this article highlights successful implementations of the 15-minute city concept in various urban contexts. These examples illustrate how the model serves as an effective response to contemporary urban challenges, including environmental degradation, traffic congestion, and the growing demand for equitable and accessible urban services. By integrating this concept into urban planning, cities can better address the multidimensional needs of their residents while promoting a sustainable and resilient urban future.