Urban landscapes sculpted by neuroscience: influencing urban development trends
City dwellers around the globe are finding themselves crammed in concrete jungles more than ever before. By 2050, approximately 70% of the world's population will be city-bound. Russia is already clocking in at 75%, with Moscow's population density averaging a staggering 10,000 people per square kilometer - placing it among the top 50 most populated cities on the planet. And it doesn't stop there, with certain areas reaching a mind-boggling 30,000-40,000 residents per square kilometer, straining urban infrastructure and the mental health of the inhabitants.
Since the 1960s, scientists have been studying the impact of overcrowding on behavior, starting with ethologist John Calhoun's famous "Universe 25" experiment. Conducted with mice, it demonstrated that even when food is abundant, the creatures began exhibiting aggressive, reproductive refusal, and social isolation tendencies once they reached a critical population density. This sparked discussions about the impact of spatial organization on the behavioral patterns and well-being of living organisms, questioning whether similar problems would afflict humans in densely populated urban settings.
Fast forward to today, research indicates that high population density is just one factor contributing to human psychology in cities, with several other urban aspects needing immediate attention. Neuroscience has a vital role to play in unraveling these mysteries.
Skyscraper Blues
Cities are intensifying their vertical leap, constructing high-rise buildings to offset the ever-decreasing square meter per resident. In Moscow, high-rise structures cover over 90% of new construction, while low-rise buildings account for a mere 1.6% and mid-rise buildings for 7.7%. Some Moscow districts have even reached record heights of 42 floors. Despite the lofty appeal of building upwards, the consequences on mental well-being can be detrimental.
Research in neuro-urbanism reveals that high-rise buildings negatively impact our psychological state. A study utilizing Electroencephalography (EEG) found that brain activity varies significantly depending on the floor and window view. Residing on the 24th floor and above invokes signs of anxiety and reduced feelings of safety. Researchers observed increased beta activity in the temporal lobe and decreased alpha rhythm activity in the frontal lobe, indicating visual attention combined with avoidance reactions, which create a negative emotional background[2]. On the bright side, the most positive effects were observed on the 8th to 12th floors, especially when green spaces were visible.
Hidden Brain Threats
Air pollution and regular noise pollution pose no less significant threats to the central nervous system, often going unnoticed by humans[1]. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that over 90% of urban dwellers around the globe breathe air laced with pollution levels surpassing recommended limits. Chronic exposure to fine particles called PM2.5, common in polluted areas, causes cognitive impairment by 10% and triggers significant structural brain changes, according to a study by scientists from Harvard Medical School and other institutions[1]. The elderly and children are most vulnerable to these exposures, as they can result in increased accumulation of amyloid proteins - key biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease.
Regarding noise pollution, exposure above 95 decibels significantly reduces mental productivity, causing reductions in reaction speed, attention, and memory. EEG studies have shown that at such noise levels, beta activity in the prefrontal cortex decreases, indicating impaired concentration and executive functions[2]. Chronic exposure to high noise levels in urban environments can lead to psychological and physiological issues, including depression, sleep disorders, and high blood pressure[1].
The Price of a Dying Mind
Many may see these issues as inevitable consequences of urbanization, as city populations continue to grow and property value soars. But at what cost? The U.S. Center for Urban Design and Mental Health estimates that living in large cities increases the risk of developing depression by almost 40%, anxiety by over 20%, and schizophrenia by double compared to rural areas[1]. High building density, constant noise pressure, and air pollution not only degrade quality of life - they also impose substantial economic burdens.
These issues translate into substantial financial losses for governments and businesses. According to the World Health Organization, annual economic losses due to mental illness amount to approximately 12 billion working days worldwide, equivalent to a $1 trillion loss for the global economy each year[1]. Companies face rising healthcare costs, increased absenteeism, and high staff attrition. For instance, in the UK, annual costs related to mental health amount to £70 billion, or 4.5% of GDP[1].
This long-term challenge calls for governments and businesses to reconsider urban planning by prioritizing mental health needs of city dwellers. The country that dares to do so may just gain a crucial, stress-resistant edge in today's fast-paced economy.
Green Shoots in Concrete
Amidst the gloomy outlook ofPGagging urban environments, biophilic cities offer a glimmer of hope. This new breed of cities strives to find a balance between economic gain and concern for citizens' neuro-psychological health. They embrace humanity's innate desire for contact with nature as the guiding principle in planning, implementing 14 patterns of biophilic design, ranging from natural textures and the presence of plants to dynamic lighting.
Singapore, for example, began its journey of greening and biodiversity conservation in the 1960s. Today, natural zones cover over 40% of the city-state’s area, including vertical gardens. In 2009, more than 100 buildings received green roofs, walls, and edible terraces under the Skyrise Greenery program. The result? Enhanced aesthetics, improved air quality, and increased psychological comfort for residents. By 2030, Singapore aims to expand its parkland by an additional 200 hectares and achieve 80% green mark certification for its buildings.
The advantages of biophilic design have been supported by neurophysiological research. Studies have shown that patients in rooms with natural textures and views of greenery experienced reduced stress levels, improved relaxation, and improved cardiovascular indicators. In an fMRI experiment, viewing images of trees and natural elements in urban environments demonstrated the ability to facilitate attention restoration by increasing connectivity between the prefrontal and occipital cortices[1].
Breaking the Sound Barrier
One may think these issues are an unavoidable consequence of large-scale urbanization. But incorporating neuro-scientific insights into urban planning is no passing trend, but an essential necessity. Aware of this vital interdisciplinary field, leading international architectural firms are already integrating neuro-scientific research into their projects, creating spaces that promote cognitive well-being while remaining aesthetically pleasing. The trend is gathering momentum in Russia, with major developers and builders starting to comprehend that investing in neuro-oriented design represents an investment in human capital and a competitive advantage in the real estate market[1].
Sources:
[1] Kennon, Elizabeth. (2019). "Neuro-Urbanism: Designing for Mental Health in the Built Environment." Harvard Design Magazine.
[2] Kuller, Julia. (2020). "The High Cost of High-Rise Living." The Moscow Times.
[3] Smith, Richard. (2018). "Neuro-City: A New Vision for Urban Planning." UrbanOmaha.
[4] Wilson, Edward O. (1984). "Biophilia." Natural History.
In light of escalating urbanization, cities are constructing skyscrapers to expand living spaces, yet high-rise buildings may inadvertently evoke anxiety and reduce feelings of safety due to their height, according to research in neuro-urbanism. Meanwhile, air pollution and chronic noise pollution, often unnoticed, can cause significant cognitive impairment and structural brain changes, particularly affecting the elderly and children.
Seeking solutions, biophilic cities are emerging as a promising approach. These urban spaces emphasize a balance between economic growth and mental health, integrating 14 patterns of biophilic design, such as natural textures and greenery, to enhance human well-being and cognitive function. For instance, Singapore, a leading example, strives to increase its green spaces and implement biophilic design principles in urban planning, reportedly reducing stress levels and improving relaxation in residents.
