Assessment of the sustainable potential of parking lots in Bahía Blanca City, Argentina

Abstract

The aim of this study is to characterize the site, location, and morphology of parking lots in downtown Bahía Blanca; to determine their contribution to environmental urban problems; and to suggest strategies to turn them into spaces in which to apply new urban principles. Strategies related to sustainable urban development, with comprehensive solutions for energy efficiency, sustainable construction, biomass conservation, and resource optimization were considered. The results show that parking lots have increased as urban land use typology within the city downtown. It was observed that parking lots are concentrated in some areas of the city downtown, and that concrete and sheet metal are the main construction materials. The lack of vegetation is also a major characteristic. Their location in urban areas implies vehicle circulation on downtown streets and avenues, which is directly associated to atmospheric pollution. Finally, each parking lot potential was analyzed in order to implement sustainable development measures, related to green policies, design, and construction.