Architecture department members Dr. Paul Oluwagbemiga and Dr. İlknur Türkoğlu
have had their article, “Understanding eco-urbanism development through expert
perspectives on drivers and barriers.” published in the scientific journal Discover
Sustainability.
The article aims to examine the awareness, perceptions, and acceptance of eco-
urbanism principles among built environment experts and to identify the factors influencing
their adoption in practice. In this context, the study pursues three main objectives: 1. To assess
the level of awareness, perception, and acceptance of eco-urbanism among professionals from
different disciplines; 2. To identify the main factors that encourage the adoption of eco-
urbanism principles; and 3. To identify the main barriers that prevent their effective
implementation.
A structured survey was conducted among professionals in the planning and design,
social and behavioral sciences, policy, economics, and development sectors. The findings
reveal a generally high level of awareness regarding eco-urbanism, particularly concerning
green space integration; over 70% of participants across professional groups indicated that
they were "very aware" of the concept. The study found that rapid urbanization and
population growth were the most significant drivers of professional acceptance, while
financial constraints emerged as the most prominent obstacle to implementation. Additionally,
correlation results indicate that certain demographic factors, including gender, significantly
influence professionals' attitudes toward eco-urbanism.
