Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest

Public squares, secret gardens and offbeat cafes can offer respite and a sense of community connection, which contribute to happiness.

Eric Zillmer, Professor of Neuropsychology, Drexel University • conversation
June 25, 2025 ~8 min

How to design landscapes that enhance natural sounds and minimise noise pollution

Paying attention to soundscapes within the landscape design process can create a stronger sense of place and reduce unwanted noise.

Usue Ruiz-Arana, Senior Lecturer in Landscape Architecture, Newcastle University • conversation
June 5, 2025 ~7 min


What birds can teach us about repurposing waste

A process called “exaptation” places repurposing resources and adaptations at the heart of evolution; what if our homes were designed on the same basis?

David Farrier, Professor of Literature and the Environment, University of Edinburgh • conversation
June 2, 2025 ~6 min

Hurricane season is here, but FEMA’s policy change could leave low-income areas less protected

Low-income neighborhoods have the hardest time recovering from disasters without help. FEMA used to require cities to pay attention to them, but that’s changing.

Shannon Van Zandt, Professor of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, Texas A&M University • conversation
May 30, 2025 ~8 min

Windows are the No. 1 human threat to birds – an ecologist shares some simple steps to reduce collisions

Cats aren’t the only bird hazard around your home. More than 1 billion birds die each year from hitting windows, often during migration.

Jason Hoeksema, Professor of Ecology, University of Mississippi • conversation
May 21, 2025 ~8 min

Why are city kids more prone to allergies?

New research provides new insight into how the immune system is shaped in early life—and why urban children are more prone to allergies.

Scott Hesel - U. Rochester • futurity
May 15, 2025 ~4 min

How city rats spread deadly bacteria

Researchers examined rodent behavior to show how different populations are related and how their movement spreads leptospirosis.

Angela Nelson-Tufts • futurity
May 13, 2025 ~9 min

What is a downburst? These winds can be as destructive as tornadoes − we recreate them to test building designs

Engineers use giant fans in the Wall of Wind test facility to study the destructive ways these powerful winds can interact with tall buildings.

Omar Metwally, Graduate Research Assistant, Extreme Events Institute, Florida International University • conversation
April 30, 2025 ~9 min


Five ways to make cities more resilient to climate change

Progressive adaptation could ensure society is not only better prepared for future shocks, but thrives in the face of uncertainty.

Paul O'Hare, Lecturer in Human Geography and Urban Development, Manchester Metropolitan University • conversation
April 28, 2025 ~9 min

The right city park design can support both people and wildlife

"As cities continue to expand, we need to ensure our greenspaces are working harder for both people and biodiversity."

U. Florida • futurity
April 15, 2025 ~8 min

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