Industry PhD proposal for Innovation Fund
Greg Maya
City Science Coordinator, Norman Foster Institute (NFI) Freelance data consultant for various NGOs
My focus lies in data-driven analysis of urban environments, particularly through applied research in health and technology integration in urban planning design and policy. Trained as an architect with a Summa Cum Laude degree and a MSC in Space Syntax,I have transitioned from traditional design to consulting on modeling complex systems within the built environment.
Kobenhavns Universite
Department of Public Health
Global Health Section
Focuses on interdisciplinary research and education in global health. Their work encompasses:
Urban environments play a crucial role in shaping health outcomes, particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This research is aimed at positioning urban planning as a proactive health intervention, capable of reducing healthcare burdens and enhancing overall quality of life.
Despite strong evidence linking urban design and public health, current planning frameworks often neglect these considerations. There is an opportunity to bridge that gap by systematically translating health outcomes into actionable spatial decisions and integrating them within the current policy and design frameworks. It will explore methodologies for new design tools that orient urban and transport planners into health positive outcomes and quantifying the economic advantages of said approaches.
The study seeks to provide decision-support tools and strategic insights for city designers, authorities and other stakeholders. Aligning planning with public health objectives should contribute to creating more liveable, resilient, and equitable cities.
Introducing a data-driven urban planning model to enhance urban health outcomes.
Uncovering the most direct links from Urban Determinants to Health Outcomes (NCDs).
The model should have the potential to benefit from ‘easy wins’ but also to develop complexity and robustness over time.
“Shift health from a mere co-benefit to a cross-cutting lens in urban planning.”
Enhance Existing Service Lines
Develop New, Specialized Service Offerings
Unlock New Markets & Funding Streams
To explore the commercial viability of integrating health outcomes in urban planning.
Can urban planning strategies mitigate the impact of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through behavioural and environmental changes?
Transformation of urban blocks to reduce car dependency, increase green spaces, and promote active transport.
Impact:
Relevance:
Demonstrates the commercial and societal value of integrating health in urban design.
Assesses health impacts of urban plans and visualizes effects on 30 health indicators.
Developed in collaboration with EIT Urban Mobility and the University of Lisbon.
A big part of this is already on its way!
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