Travail de fin d'études / Projet de fin d'études : The 15 minute City : Criteria and Implementation

Abstract

In the context of this thesis work, the main subject of the research focuses on the concept of the 15-minute city. The 15-minute city is a concept introduced by Carlos Moreno after the 2015 Paris Climate Conference as a framework to combat greenhouse gas emissions. Since then, this concept has been gaining popularity and is of increasing interest to researchers and urban planners due to its human-centric approach, in contrast to smart cities, which are more technology-focused. This urban planning concept emphasizes the accessibility and sustainability of the urban environment by advocating for access to essential life services within 15 minutes by foot or bicycle. This reduces dependence on motor vehicles, enhances the sense of community in cities, improves mental and physical health of residents, and decreases urban pollution. However, how can this be effectively implemented in existing cities ? This concept, studied in depth by many researchers and already applied in several cities, lacks a formalized methodology. The criteria vary from one study to another, which naturally influences the results and, consequently, the implemented urban policies. This paper focuses on the creation of a methodology for efficiently calculating a city’s accessibility and walkability. This methodology is based on a GIS analysis of accessibility, and the use of NetAScore software to calculate walkability. These results will be cross-referenced with socio-economic indicators and verified by a series of surveys of the population and field surveys in a selected area, in order to obtain a methodology that is as close to reality as possible. To conclude the work, a series of medium- and short-term solutions are developed for the whole of the area studied, in order to improve the comfort and quality of life of residents with regard to soft mobility.