Climate Justice in Urban Public Spaces: Bridging Environmental Law, Human Rights, and Urban Design for Livable Cities

Abstract

Urban public spaces are increasingly at the forefront of climate change impacts, raising critical concerns about environmental sustainability, human well-being, and social equity. The concept of the "right to livable cities" has emerged as a vital human rights discourse, emphasizing access to safe, inclusive, and climate-resilient urban environments. This paper explores the intersection of climate change, environmental law, and human rights within the context of urban public spaces.

Drawing upon international environmental frameworks and human rights principles, the study examines how legal mechanisms address issues such as urban heat stress, environmental degradation, and unequal access to public spaces. It further investigates the role of urban design and planning in mitigating climate risks and promoting sustainable tourism and community well-being.

Using a case study approach, with reference to rapidly urbanizing cities such as Dubai, the paper highlights the challenges and opportunities in integrating legal frameworks with spatial design strategies. The research argues that achieving climate justice in cities requires a transdisciplinary approach that bridges environmental law, human rights, and the built environment. The paper concludes by proposing policy and design recommendations to create inclusive, resilient, and livable urban public spaces, contributing to broader debates on sustainable urban futures and global governance in the era of climate change.