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Journal of Urban Development and Management Integrating the Biophilia

Concept into Urban Planning: A Case Study of Kufa City, Iraq

Article in Journal of Urban Development and Management · October 2023

DOI: 10.56578/judm020302

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 Journal of Urban Development and Management
https://www.acadlore.com/journals/JUDM

Integrating the Biophilia Concept into Urban Planning: A Case Study

of Kufa City, Iraq
Wafaa Abbas Hussein* , Ahmed Shamkhi Al-Khafaji

Faculty of Physical Planning, University of Kufa, Al-Najaf 54001, Iraq

*
Correspondence: Ahmed Shamkhi Al-Khafaji ([email protected])

Received: MM-DD-YYYY Revised: MM-DD-YYYY Accepted: MM-DD-YYYY

Citation: W.A. Hussein, A.S. Al-Khafaji, “Integrating the biophilia concept into urban planning: A case study of
Kufa City, Iraq,” J. Urban Dev. Manag., vol. 2, no. 3, pp. 1–10, 2023. https://doi.org/10.56578/judm020302.

2023 by the authors. Licensee Acadlore Publishing Services Limited, Hong Kong. This article can be downloaded for free, and
reused and quoted with a citation of the original published version, under the CC BY 4.0 license.

Abstract: In an exploration of biophilic cities, this study examines the integration of nature into urban environments,
emphasizing its critical importance to human well-being. Biophilic cities are characterized by abundant green
and blue spaces, facilitating human interaction within natural settings. These cities prioritize pedestrian spaces,
cultural and historical sites linked to nature, and diverse usage ensuring habitat conservation. To ascertain the key
factors enabling effective and sustainable incorporation of nature into urban spaces, two primary components were
identified. Firstly, the block-level nature integration factor was investigated, represented by the Meso Index. This
index is calculated by the green area’s ratio within a designated block. Secondly, the citywide nature integration
factor, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of green spaces throughout the city, was examined. This factor
promotes direct interaction with nature across various urban functions, including housing, commerce, education,
and recreation. Both the lawn afforestation index and the linear garden index serve as measures for this integration.
Direct and indirect indicators affected by the establishment of biophilic cities were then applied to Kufa City, Iraq.
Employing GIS for map production and analysis alongside mathematical models, indicators were analyzed through
field surveys, observation, and feedback forms. Results revealed the innate human predisposition towards nature,
highlighting its significance in daily life. Adverse effects on human life and behavior were observed in areas devoid of
greenery. Kufa City exhibited potential for biophilic transformation, contingent upon accurate indicator application
and improved green space planning.

Keywords: Landscape; Biophilic city; Meso scale; Natural areas; Urban planning; Kufa City; GIS analysis
1 Introduction
Biophilic cities are typically defined by their prevalent open green and blue spaces, spaces that are believed
to enhance community interaction and deepen engagement with nature [1]. The term ’biophilia’ finds its roots in
ancient Greek, combining ’bio’ (life) and ’filia’ (love), signifying a profound ’love for life’ [1]. In contrast, ’nicrovilia’
(or ’necrophilia’) represents an affinity for death, with inclinations towards darkness, nocturnal realms, concealed
spaces, and deceased entities. Historically, this term first surfaced in medical dictionaries of the early 20th century,
where it was characterized as either an inherent behavioral pattern or an intrinsic force advocating survival [2]. Thus,
biophilia can be interpreted as a representation of the enduring relationship between humans and nature, a bond
thought to have evolved as humans adapted to diverse natural settings across varying temporal scales [2].
The term ’biophilia’ was first introduced to the academic world by Erich Fromm in his essay, The Human Heart.
His work, heavily influenced by Sigmund Freud’s theories, sought to explain this intrinsic mental predisposition
towards life preservation and an aversion to death. Central to biophilia, it is posited, is the experiential union between
humans and nature, contingent upon preserving the autonomy and sanctity of both [3].
Later, the concept was further refined by biologist Edward Wilson. In his seminal work, titled Biophilia, he
elaborated on the human propensity for an innate emotional bond with other life forms. Wilson suggested that such
tendencies are likely underpinned by genetic factors, emphasizing the pivotal role of nature in human well-being
across physical, emotional, intellectual, and moral dimensions.
By 2011, the scope of biophilic studies had considerably widened. Betley and McDonald [4] put forth a
vision for ”Beauvilean Cities”, a conceptual framework that transcended mere architectural and urban design.
Their perspective encompassed comprehensive urban planning, ranging from interstitial spaces between structures,

https://doi.org/10.56578/judm020302
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encompassing entire neighborhoods, cities, and even broader territorial extents. Notably, their model emphasized
the imperativeness of safeguarding natural ecosystems and promoting biodiversity on both continental and global
scales.
Recent studies underscore the importance of regular human-nature interactions for optimal health and produc-
tivity. It is believed that such an affinity stems from broader evolutionary interconnections humans share not only
amongst themselves but also with nature and its myriad entities. This intricate interplay is often articulated as an
inherent emotional connection humans possess with other living organisms [5].
Biophilic cities are characterized by their ample green and blue open spaces, designed to foster communal
interactions amidst natural settings. In such cities, pedestrian areas are notably dominant, coupled with cultural
and historical sites that echo nature’s significance. There is also an intentional effort to maintain a multiplicity of
uses, ensuring that natural habitats and areas are conserved [6]. In the foundational phase of biophilia, biologist
Edward Wilson defined the term in 1984 as the intrinsic emotional connection humans possess towards other living
organisms. This connection is posited to be innate, suggesting it is hereditary and an intrinsic facet of human
nature [7].
It is understood that human external senses, upon perceiving stimuli, formulate preliminary notions. These
notions are subsequently conveyed to the first element of the internal senses - commonly termed as the ’common
sense’. This ’common sense’ gathers sensations and forwards them to what can be described as the ’photographic
force’. Consequently, an individual, upon perceiving an entity, forms a related cognition through this mechanism,
suggesting that biophilia might be an inherent human disposition [8]. The interplay between humans and facets
of their urban environment reflects their cultural progress and the expansiveness of human cognition. From these
interactions, derivative concepts emerge, often accompanied by deep-seated emotions [9].
With the surge in urbanization, many green expanses have been usurped for alternative uses, leading to a notable
dearth of natural spaces. Cities, over time, witnessed a depletion of their green belts, thereby distancing inhabitants
from their innate environments. Such a detachment is believed to be deep-rooted in human neurology, and its absence
can detrimentally impact the well-being of urban populations. Consequently, there has been an emerging emphasis
on reconceptualizing cities that prioritize nature, both in planning and design phases.
Despite the recognized importance of these natural aspects, previous studies have seldom delved deep into the
natural parameters that define biophilic cities. This research thus seeks to bridge this knowledge chasm by eluci-
dating the factor of ’Integrating Nature with Urban Places’, elaborating relevant indicators, exploring measurement
methodologies, and laying down criteria for crafting a true biophilic city. A spotlight will be cast on Kufa City,
nestled in Iraq’s Najaf Governorate. Distinguished by its historical pedigree and natural riches such as the Kufa
River (an Euphrates River offshoot), orchards gracing its banks, expansive palm groves along the riverfront, and
significant urban agricultural expanses, Kufa City provides a fertile ground for this investigation.
2 The Biophilic Cities Model as a Sustainable Urban Paradigm
The concept of biophilic cities is intrinsically linked to the principles of sustainable development. In the realm
of urban planning, the momentum for biophilic urbanization has been observed to be on an accelerated trajectory.
As highlighted by UNEP, the integration of green spaces within urban landscapes has been found to regulate natural
processes, notably in the mitigation of elevated local temperatures. The emergence of sustainable cities is not merely
an incidental trend; rather, it is posited as a strategic response tailored to address a complex confluence of economic,
environmental, and societal exigencies [10].
Numerous investigations have turned their focus on the interplay between urban green spaces — encompassing
parks, trees, and prominent green landmarks — and the overarching theme of urban environmental sustainability.
A robust correlation between these green urban infrastructures and urban environmental sustainability has been
established [11]. Sustainability, in its essence, is typically conceptualized across three foundational pillars: economic,
social, and environmental. These pillars serve as a holistic frame of reference, guiding the trajectory of urban
evolution, emphasizing the minimization of environmental impacts, conservation of resources, enhancement of life
quality, and expansion of economic opportunities, particularly for the marginalized populations.
The biophilic city model emerges as a noteworthy approach within sustainable urban planning paradigms. It
mandates the precedence of nature in urban design, planning, and management, addressing the inhabitants’ intrinsic
need for daily interactions with the natural world. The incorporation of biophilia in urban planning and design
has been demonstrated to yield multifaceted benefits. On the economic front, benefits such as enhanced employee
well-being, prevention of ennui, increased dwell times in commercial areas, the advent of mixed-use zones, health
improvement, augmented healing rates, mood enhancement, and behavioral betterment have been documented. From
an environmental perspective, the promotion of green and blue spaces, fostering of diverse habitats, and facilitation
of nature accessibility emerge as primary gains. Meanwhile, on the societal front, a surge in pedestrian activities,
conservation drives, community involvement in habitat stewardship, and the resultant augmentation in social capital
have been observed [12].

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 These multifarious benefits of biophilic cities resonate with the ethos of Sustainable Development Goal 11
(SDG 11), which champions the cause of molding cities and human settlements into hubs that are inclusive, safe,
resilient, and sustainable. Specifically, SDG 11 endeavors to cultivate sustainable transport avenues, engender green
and communal spaces, safeguard cultural and natural legacies, and fortify the synergies between rural and urban
domains [12].
In biophilic cities, opportunities for innovative integration and rejuvenation of natural elements abound. Such
environments, which emulate natural settings, proffer a spectrum of activities — from gardening and hiking to
bird-watching and myriad nature-centric pursuits. Furthermore, inhabitants of these cities are often presented with
myriad avenues to partake in the restoration and stewardship of their immediate natural milieu, nurturing a profound
sense of belonging and kinship [13].
Illustratively, Banjul has harnessed its natural topography to carve out a sustainable, nature-integrated urban
landscape. By seamlessly embedding nature across the cityscape, creating recreational zones, amalgamating multiple
uses, and provisioning social spaces, Banjul has redefined its urban character. Moreover, by conserving heritage
pathways and drawing design inspirations from indigenous environmental elements, the city has artfully intertwined
nature with urbanity. A prominent feature that stands out in Banjul is its astute utilization of waterways as conduits
for nature integration across the city, ushering in multifunctional zones along its flanks.
Conversely, Tanga City has strategically interspersed green expanses throughout its urban fabric. By knitting green
patches, essential amenities, residential clusters, and other functional areas with coherent movement trajectories,
Tanga City has accentuated connectivity and a pervasive sense of place. Additionally, the city’s commitment to
preserving historically significant trees and integrating green pockets, which were erstwhile forest fragments, into
the broader urban matrix exemplifies its biophilic ethos.
Building on these illustrative insights, the subsequent section will delve deeper into the exploration of ’Integrating
Nature with Urban Places’ as a pivotal mechanism to embed biophilia within urban confines.

3 Integration of Nature within Urban Environments

The assimilation of nature into urban spaces has emerged as a transformative approach in contemporary urban
planning. This strategy endeavours to amalgamate various land utilizations - encompassing residential, occupa-
tional, recreational, commercial, and service-oriented domains - with natural elements, thereby redefining urban
landscapes [14]. Central to this approach is the conceptualization of urban designs that seamlessly interlace built
environments with green expanses, public realms, commercial sectors, industrial belts, and service precincts. These
integrative actions encompass not only the introduction of green recreational spaces within urban confines but also
capitalize on the intrinsic ecosystem services such as potable water storage, biodiversity preservation, natural habitat
protection, and the conservation of agricultural expanses and woodlands [15].
In biophilic cities, it has been observed that green spaces don’t merely exist in isolation; they are intricately woven
with the urban fabric, manifesting in forms like parks, green rooftops, and verdant facades. Further innovation is
seen in the confluence of these green spaces with the city’s blue zones [16]. The nuanced approach to this integration
can be elucidated by focusing on two granular dimensions: the integration at the block level and the broader urban
matrix.

3.1 Nature Integration within Mixed Land Uses: The Block-Level Perspective
At the very essence of biophilic urban design lies the principle of integrating nature at the micro-level, specifically
within individual city blocks. The efficacy of such integration is often assessed using metrics like the green area-
to-block ratio. According to established standards, a minimum of 35% of the mass area should be dedicated to
green spaces, dispersed across no more than 26 distinct green patches with a recommended inter-patch distance of
7 meters. Such stipulations aim to strike a balance between ensuring green space accessibility and sustaining urban
densities [12].
Unlike conventional urban parks, these green spaces, in their ideal form, replicate conditions prior to urban devel-
opment, serving as reservoirs of native biodiversity. The inherent value of these green spaces is further augmented
when they form part of an ecological corridor, essential for the sustenance of diverse wildlife. Such corridors play
pivotal roles in facilitating species-specific activities like foraging, migration, refuge, and reproduction [12].
Two pertinent sub-indicators to gauge the effectiveness of this block-level integration are the Urban Forest Index
and the Urban Orchards Index. An in-depth exploration of these indices is presented as follows:
3.1.1 Nature integration within mixed land uses: The urban perspective
At the urban scale, green spaces are meticulously planned to facilitate harmonious interaction between urban
and environmental elements. A preference is exhibited for linear green spaces, primarily due to their intrinsic
capability to span vast terrains, effectively connecting urban realms with natural environs and extant agricultural
landscapes [13]. This overarching theme is further underscored by the following indicative parameters:

3
 A. Street Afforestation Index: The ecological and aesthetic roles of street trees within the urban environment
cannot be understated. It is documented that the specific species selection for street trees profoundly influences
the green volume of urban corridors [10]. The implementation criteria for such afforestation, which encompass
pavements, floral basins on walkways, shrubberies, and misinformation zones, are articulated as follows:
A standard range of 5-8, as detailed in the Standards and Controls for Intra-City Afforestation by the Ministry of
Municipal and Village Affairs of Saudi Arabia (p. 7, 2020) (Refer to Figure 1).
B. Green Corridors/Linear Parks Indicator: In the architectural blueprint of biophilic cities, the inception of
green corridors has been identified as pivotal to underpin urban sustainability and weave a nexus with urban parklands.
Such corridors not only foster varied recreational pursuits across demographics but also lay the groundwork for
establishing green urban enclaves tailored for holistic community needs. Their significance is further accentuated
by their biodiversity-rich composition, granting passage to a myriad of organisms and proffering a multitude of
environmental advantages. The connective nature of these corridors enhances urban open spaces, buttresses natural
resource conservation, and bolsters overall environmental requisites [7]. The empirical assessment of this integration
hinges on the following metrics:
(1) Eco-Hiking Corridors: Natural forested corridors of ecological significance that facilitate habitat mobility.
These corridors are distinguished by their linear park attributes and span over 50 meters in width, often paralleling
major thoroughfares bridging urban and rural divides [13].
(2) Productive Environmental Corridors: These mirror the attributes of eco-hiking corridors but are interspersed
with productive tracts, potentially encompassing urban agricultural plots, agroforestry, or forestry with indigenous
species. Their characteristic breadth extends beyond 20 meters, typically flanking primary urban roadways [13]
(Refer to Figure 2).

Figure 1. An illustration of a cultural street in Mexico City, Mexico, developed in alignment with the biophilic
approach. The depiction reveals streets enveloped in vegetation from all facets, fostering seamless interaction with
pedestrian zones

Figure 2. A schematic representation detailing the integration of nature within urban biophilic spaces. Emphasis is
placed on linear greening techniques, encompassing street trees, green corridors, linear gardens, and diverse
ecological corridors

For illustrative purposes, the Tengah City Project serves as an exemplary embodiment of the aforementioned prin-
ciples. Nature-centric solutions permeate the city’s proposed environmental blueprint, with green spaces intricately

4
woven through pivotal green zones, amenity centers, and residential precincts. This intricate network delineates
a symbiotic relationship between built structures, the natural world, and the community at large, epitomizing the
essence of seamless green integration (Refer to Figure 3).

Figure 3. The layout of Tengah City exemplifies the holistic integration of nature. A synergy is observed with
green streets and corridors seamlessly interwoven throughout the urban fabric

4 Methodology
This research was informed by a thorough analysis of both theoretical and empirical literature, focusing on
sustainability factors and their interplay with biophilic city principles. From the extensive literature review, a
discernible knowledge gap was identified, emphasizing the ambiguity of indicators necessary for achieving optimal
integration of nature within urban frameworks. Benchmarking served as the foundational strategy for the research,
whereby specific indicators within the selected study area were meticulously measured. Subsequent analyses were
conducted using mathematical methodologies to juxtapose observed data against predetermined standards, employing
criteria such as the Street Afforestation Index and the Green Walkway Indicator/Linear Gardens.
Kufa City, situated 156 km south of Baghdad and 10 km northeast of Najaf, was chosen as the primary study
area [14]. Recognized as one of the most venerable Islamic religious cities, Kufa City spans an area of 4914.04
hectares within its administrative boundaries, comprising five sectors which further bifurcate into 21 residential
neighborhoods [15]. The city is bisected by a branch of the Euphrates River, colloquially termed the Kufa River.
This riverine feature augments the urban landscape with verdant expanses characterized by palm forests, orchards,
and farms, as recorded by the Kufa Municipality Directorate in 2022.
The choice of Kufa City as the research’s focal point was underpinned by several salient features:
• Natural Green Spaces: Kufa City is punctuated by expansive natural green spaces, delineated by palm forests,
agricultural lands, and orchards. Its topography, predominantly flat, renders the terrain propitious for agriculture.
Additionally, the alluvial soil along the banks of the Kufa River proves especially fertile.
• Blue Spaces: The Kufa River, as the city’s preeminent blue space, stands not only as a testament to the city’s
natural affluence but also as a hub of biodiversity, reflecting the vitality of urban life. Moreover, its banks serve as
communal recreational zones. Pertinent illustrations and data are presented in Figure 4 and Table 1, respectively.
5 Study Area
Situated 156 km south of Baghdad and 10 km northeast of Najaf, Kufa City is recognized as one of the seminal
Islamic religious cities [17]. This Iraqi city functions as the administrative epicenter of Najaf governorate in
the central Euphrates region. Geographically, its coordinates are registered at 44° 23’ 55” latitude and 32° 32’
11” longitude [18]. Spanning 4914.04 hectares within its administrative boundaries, the city is subdivided into five
sectors, which are further fragmented into 21 residential neighborhoods. The Kufa River, a tributary of the Euphrates,
traverses the city, punctuating it with expansive green areas characterized by palm forests, orchards, and farms, as
recorded by the Kufa Municipality Directorate in 2022. A high percentage of green spaces has been documented
within Kufa City [19].

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 Figure 4. Schematic representation of the adopted methodology

Table 1. Enumerates the indicators employed in the study, the methodologies adopted for measurement, and the
corresponding criteria against which the city’s infrastructure was evaluated

Indicator Measurement Method Standard

Meso Index Measurement of the green area area The percentage of green area shall be a
surrounding the block to the block minimum of 35% of the mass area and shall
area ratio be spread to a maximum of 26 green spots and
distance between green spots 7 m
Street Afforestation Tree-to-Tree distance scale Distance from tree to tree 7 m
Index Pedestrian pavement display scale Berth Width 3 m
Ecological hiking corridor display Width greater than 50 m
Green Walkway
scale
Indicator / Linear
Scale display of green spaces Width greater than 30 m
Gardens
produced

5.1 Integration of Nature with Urban Spaces in the Study Area

The integration of nature into biophilic urban spaces can be gauged either by assessing the proportion of green
spaces in relation to urban mass or via the presence of green corridors, streets, and linear gardens. The succeeding
sections delineate the methodologies employed to measure this integration within the study area.
5.1.1 Integration factor of nature at block level
This factor signifies the relationship between green spaces and the percentage of urban blocks that are flanked
by these verdant expanses. The Meso indicator was employed to ascertain the green space ratio within the study
area, with the criterion stipulating that green spaces should occupy a minimum of 35% of the block area, with a
maximum of 26 green spots at a distance of 7 meters between each spot. Discrepancies were observed, where
certain blocks solely conformed to singular green areas instead of the stipulated multiple green spots. The Nature
Harmony Index with residential blocks is considered a pivotal metric in biophilic cities, emphasizing the nexus
between urban residents and nature. Such integration offers multifarious benefits, spanning psychological, health,
and social spheres. For illustrative data, refer to Figure 5 and Table 2.
5.2 Integration of Nature at the Urban Level
The synthesis of nature within urban landscapes in the study area was evaluated through the subsequent indicators:
A. Green Street Indicator: Analyses revealed that Kufa City largely lacks an established green street network. A
majority of streets manifest traditional designs, with some central islands sporadically punctuated with rudimentary
vegetation. Many streets, in stark contrast, are devoid of any greenery, pedestrian canopies, or leisure spots. In
quintessential biophilic cities, green streets play an instrumental role, forging connections between the city’s green
and blue spaces while simultaneously fostering pedestrian-friendly environments, fortified by dense vegetation that
ensures thermal comfort. This is further complemented by aesthetic and functional amenities such as lighting and
seating. For a visual representation, refer to Figure 6.
B. Green Corridors/Linear Parks Indicator: This metric underscores the prevalence of green corridors
that seamlessly interlink the green and blue elements of the urban tapestry. Within the study area, the following

6
observations were made:
(1) Ecological Hiking Corridors: No ecological hiking corridors were discerned within the study area. Standards
for biophilic cities advocate for the presence of ecological hiking corridors spanning at least 20 meters in width,
serving both as habitats and connectors between the city’s disparate green and blue spaces.
(2) Environmental Productive Corridors: Four productive environmental corridors were identified, primarily
characterized by vegetable farms interspersed with fruit and palm trees—areas earmarked for urban agriculture.
Although oriented towards the blue areas of the Kufa River, these corridors don’t provide an interconnection between
the city’s public and natural green spaces. In quintessential biophilic cities, such corridors, both productive and
recreational, are indispensable, forming an interconnected green network that facilitates seamless transition between
various urban zones and the encompassing green and blue spaces. Visual representation can be found in Figure 7
and Figure 8.
The systematic approach outlined herein endeavors to provide an in-depth analysis of the intricate interplay
between urban landscapes and nature, emphasizing the need for symbiotic integration to foster sustainable urban
habitats.

Figure 5. Illustrates the juxtaposition of green space in relation to residential blocks in the Kufa City neighborhood

Table 2. Presents data detailing the proportion of green spaces juxtaposed with residential blocks within the
neighborhoods, providing quantitative insights into the city’s green space distribution

Neighbourhood Name Proportion of Green Space Harmony with Block

The Mindful 31.5%
Military 24.4%
Teachers 1 34.2%
Kinda 1 3.5%
Kinda 2 12.6%
Misan 1 19.8%
Misan 3 12.2%
Mr. Ibr 1%

7
 Figure 6. Depiction of Bridge Street in Kufa City, noticeably devoid of green expanses

Figure 7. Depicts the agricultural production corridors, further highlighting the city’s utilization of green corridors
for agricultural endeavors

6 Results
6.1 Green Spaces and Residential Blocks
Analysis of the study area revealed non-uniform distribution of green spaces in proximity to residential blocks.
Instead of adhering to the standard which mandates the dispersion of green spaces around the block in the form of
26 patches, with a recommended separation of 7 meters between individual patches, the observed green spaces were
predominantly concentrated in singular regions. Furthermore, these spaces exhibited minimal connectivity to other
green expanses in the Kufa City neighborhood.

6.2 Green Infrastructure in Kufa City

While Kufa City boasts the presence of green corridors, a conspicuous absence of an integrated green grid was
noted. This grid ideally should connect the green corridors to other verdant areas in the city, fostering a seamless
green transition throughout the urban expanse. Additionally, the city displayed a marked deficiency in tree-lined
streets, further detracting from its potential as a biophilic urban center.
The presented results underscore the paramount importance of strategically integrating green spaces within urban
landscapes, not only for aesthetic appeal but also for fostering holistic, sustainable, and biophilic urban ecosystems.
7 Conclusion
Urban natural areas, emblematic of a city’s natural heritage, are deemed invaluable assets to both the urban
environment and its populace. When harnessed appropriately, the sustainability of urban spaces is believed to be
enhanced. Biophilic planning, a burgeoning approach, has been identified as a potent strategy that promotes a more

8
sustainable and effective interaction with urban natural spaces. This method posits the integration of nature into
urban settings through the establishment of an interconnected green network, facilitated by distinctive environmental
green corridors. Such a design ostensibly ensures holistic accessibility across the urban spectrum, allowing residents
to maintain both direct and indirect communion with nature.

Figure 8. Showcases one of the green corridors utilized as productive agricultural land, underlining the dual
functionality of these corridors in the urban landscape

Through the undertaken study, it was revealed that Kufa City is in dire need of augmenting its green spaces
and interlinking them with other urban functionalities. Furthermore, the establishment of a cohesive green network
that interconnects these green areas is deemed imperative. Emphasis was placed on the biophilic integration into
the urban framework through a set of indicators, notably the Meso Index, Street Afforestation Index, and the Green
Walkway Indicator/Linear Gardens. The primary intent of the study was the identification of these indicators to
facilitate nature’s seamless integration into urban landscapes. Subsequent measurement of these indicators in Kufa
City followed by data analysis divulged that the city manifests a conspicuous absence of uniformly distributed green
spaces surrounding its blocks. Moreover, while the presence of green corridors was observed, a glaring lack of
a comprehensive green network, which ideally should amalgamate these corridors with other green expanses, was
noted. The dearth of tree-lined streets further exacerbated this deficiency.
For future urban planning endeavors in Kufa City, adherence to biophilic principles is strongly advocated. Such
an approach is believed to proliferate green zones, thus fostering the harmonious melding of nature with urban
spaces. Consequently, it is anticipated that this would elevate social interactions, enhance place connectivity, and
nurture a heightened sense of belonging among residents. The findings of this research underscore the exigency for a
transformative shift in urban planning paradigms towards embracing biophilia. Prospective studies are recommended
to delve deeper into the uncharted realms of biophilic planning and design, with the overarching goal of devising a
holistic framework aligned with the aspirations of sustainable and resilient urban development.
Author Contributions
Conceptualization, A.S.A. and W.A.H.; methodology, A.S.A.; software, W.A.H.; validation, A.S.A. and W.A.H.;
formal analysis, A.S.A.; investigation, W.A.H.; resources, A.S.A.; data curation, W.A.H.; writing—original draft
preparation, A.S.A.; writing—review and editing, A.S.A.; visualization, A.S.A.; supervision, A.S.A.; project ad-
ministration, W.A.H.; funding acquisition, A.S.A. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the
manuscript.

Data Availability
Not applicable.
Acknowledgements
We would like to thank Dr. Tuqa R. Alrobaee, Ass. Professor at the Faculty of Physical Planning, University of
Kufa-An-Najaf, Iraq, for her technical support and translation.

9
 Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.
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