The Need of Itegration of Health Aspects in Sustainability by Urban-Architectural Multicriteria Assessment Tools

Abstract

Current situation of worsening of the health of individuals and societies requires response in architectural design. The article discusses possibilities for integration of health aspects and well-being factors in investment process in pursue of sustainability, by utilizing the advantages of the green building rating systems and evaluation tools which are already present in international and national practice. The aim of this article is to indicate the need for an integral approach in creating a built environment that allows for a healthy life in accordance with the location and current social and other problems. The author believes that the recognition of architectural objects as an integral part of complex urban structures is a necessary approach that determines the integration of the discussed aspects in design. The process should also include raising public awareness, focusing on better planning and design tools, and systems for collecting data and measuring health impacts. Integrating health parameters with already existing sustainable design procedures and standards is crucial. The core of the study was the observation and analysis of the already built housing environment, planned and designed according to the principles of sustainable development, in order to determine the degree of taking into account environmental elements and aspects of health on the object and urban scale.