This research, conducted in collaboration with a researcher Khalifa from Department of Architecture, Near East University, focuses on the analysis and evaluation of urban furniture in Dr. Fazil Kucuk Park in Nicosia. The study aims to assess the sustainability and integration of renewable energy sources, particularly solar energy technologies, in various park furnishings. Through a qualitative research approach utilizing both secondary and primary data, the study examines six types of urban furniture: lighting, public art, benches, trash cans, bike stands, and billboards.
The findings reveal that among the urban furniture elements, only the lighting fixtures efficiently utilize solar energy in the park, while the remaining furniture lacks such renewable energy features. The study emphasizes the need for improvements to meet international sustainable development standards, suggesting that upgrading urban furniture in Dr. Fazil Kucuk Park is essential.
The six urban furniture elements were comprehensively analyzed through a dual-part methodology. Initially, a theoretical study explored urban furniture and the potential integration of solar energy systems. Subsequently, a field study was conducted at Dr. Fazil Kucuk Park to assess the practical application of sustainable practices, focusing on solar energy integration in public spaces. The research highlights deficiencies in the park’s current urban furnishings, including the absence of solar-powered signboards, inadequately placed trash cans, limited solar-powered benches, insufficient bicycle parking, and minimal use of solar energy for lighting.
The study underscores the importance of significant infrastructure upgrades to enhance solar energy integration, energy efficiency, and user comfort in the park. While considering various aspects of sustainability, the research primarily focuses on environmental concerns and innovative approaches to incorporate solar energy into modern urban furniture models.
The research successfully achieved its objectives through a descriptive, analytical, and applied approach. The theoretical study provided insights into urban furniture and solar energy systems, while the field study at Dr. Fazil Kucuk Park aimed to determine the effectiveness and feasibility of implementing sustainable practices in public spaces. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the necessity for concerted efforts to elevate the urban furniture in Dr. Fazil Kucuk Park to meet international sustainable development standards.
More Information:
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9717/11/10/2887
