Environment

The environment has a set of essential functions that directly impact on the experience of its users, both human and non-human. Thermal regulation, sound absorption, air quality, and the availability of natural spaces are key factors for inclusion in both urban and rural environments. Furthermore, biodiversity plays a fundamental role in the habitability of spaces, as the presence of vegetation and wildlife contributes to ecological stability and the well-being of those who interact with the environment. A balanced and functional environment not only enhances people’s health and mood but also facilitates coexistence with other species, fostering a more harmonious and sustainable relationship with the ecosystem.

To ensure inclusion in habitable spaces, strategies must be implemented to improve environmental accessibility in both built environments and the digital realm. In physical spaces, this involves the creation of green infrastructures and nature-based solutions, optimizing thermal and acoustic comfort, and reducing pollutants to enhance air and soil quality. In the digital space, accessibility should also consider the impact of digital design on nature and well-being, ensuring that technologies are developed sustainably and durably.

The improvement of environmental accessibility benefits a wide range of users. People with health conditions such as allergies, asthma, or acoustic sensitivity find relief in well-designed environments that mitigate the barriers affecting their quality of life. Risk population, exposed to climate crises and environmental degradation, also benefit from policies that integrate sustainability and equity into urban planning. Additionally, biodiversity is a key user of the environment: pollinators, birds, and other species depend on accessible green spaces for survival, while their presence strengthens ecological resilience and human well-being. In this regard, environmental inclusion not only addresses human needs but also recognizes the value of all beings sharing the same space, promoting an integrated and sustainable perspective in both urban and rural design.