How architecture influences political activity
In Ghana, semi-communal “compound houses” affect how much people vote and participate in political activity, new research shows.
MIT SPURS looks to the future of urban technology and policy
As the international program approaches its 60th year, leaders are reshaping its curriculum to address emerging technologies and the policies shaping their use in urban planning.
MIT Asia Real Estate Initiative expands its footprint in booming Asian cities
The initiative plans to engage industry leaders and MIT alumni with hubs in Tokyo, Dubai, and Hong Kong.
MIT practicum connects students with Ukrainian city leaders on economic development
Students in a Department of Urban Studies and Planning course work with leaders from Vinnytsia, Ukraine, exploring innovation ecosystems, infrastructure, and workforce development amid constraints of war.
Urban planning students engage with communities through the Freedom Summer Fellowship
“You can’t teach planning today without grappling with how policy actually unfolds within communities,” says Professor Phillip Thompson.
MIT researchers measure traffic emissions, to the block, in real-time
A new study pieces together existing data sources in order to develop a detailed, dynamic picture of auto emissions.
Seeds of something different
Kate Brown’s book, “Tiny Gardens Everywhere,” examines the hidden history of urban farming, its extensive use, and the politics of growing food.
More trees where they matter, please
An international study reveals disparities in urban shade levels, exacerbating the “heat island” effect in big cities.
Parking-aware navigation system could prevent frustration and emissions
By minimizing the need to drive around looking for a parking spot, this technique can save drivers up to 35 minutes — and give them a realistic estimate of total travel time.
I’m walking here! A new model maps foot traffic in New York City
The first complete charting of foot traffic in any US city can be used for infrastructure decisions and safety improvements.
Feeding innovation to solve complex urban problems
Cross-border collaborations are seen as a key to success for the MIT Leventhal Center’s Mexico City Initiative.
Fewer layovers, better-connected airports, more firm growth
Research shows direct flights and links to key airports help multinational firms expand globally and decide where to invest.
How cement “breathes in” and stores millions of tons of CO₂ a year
New analysis provides the first national, bottom-up estimate of cement’s natural carbon dioxide uptake across buildings and infrastructure.
Turning a childhood interest into a career path with MIT Open Learning resources
High schooler Hinata Yamahara’s interest in urban planning was nurtured by free MIT resources, including OpenCourseWare.
Giving buildings an “MRI” to make them more energy-efficient and resilient
Founded by a team from MIT, Lamarr.AI uses drones, thermal imaging, and AI to help property owners make targeted investments in their buildings.