Bottom-Up Strategies for Creating Sustainable Urban Settlements through Sustainable Real Estate Development Practices: A Review

Abstract

This study explores the concept of sustainable urban design and its significance in achieving Sustainable Development Goal-11 (SDG-11) through sustainable real estate developments, focusing on Lagos, Nigeria. It investigates effective strategies for creating urban settlements by integrating sustainable real estate (buildings) and developing Eco-cities such as Alaro City in Epe, Lagos. An exploratory research method was employed, and key findings highlight the importance of integrating sustainable building design, green spaces, efficient public transportation, renewable energy, efficient water management systems, etc., into real estate development at the planning stage. The study identifies government, architects, quantity surveyors, builders, and individual real estate developers as crucial stakeholders in promoting sustainable real estate developments through the bottom-up approach that will eventually result in sustainable urban settlements. Recommendations emphasize the need for government prioritization of public awareness campaigns and strategic planning, such as giving necessary encouragement and support to local building materials industries. It was equally recommended that certain specific built environment professionals, such as land surveyors, town planners, architects, and quantity surveyors who are the first contact to real estate developers should endeavour to always advise and convince their clients to embrace sustainable real estate design and construction.