Revitalizing Rural and Suburban Areas: Aiko's Mission and Impact in 2023

Meet Aiko Hayashi, a passionate and dedicated individual with an active role in researching urban homogenization. Aiko's exceptional leadership abilities shine through her involvement in the student council. She aspires to rekindle the profound connection between people and their cities, leveraging her architectural expertise to translate her research into practical solutions.

In 2023, rural and suburban areas grapple with a pressing issue - a proliferation of vacant properties. This has led to a cascade of problems including dwindling local economies, compromised community safety, and an overall decline in well-being. This issue endures due to the absence of comprehensive solutions. This is where our capstone project steps in. Our mission is to propose a revitalization plan that breathes new life into vacant properties, transforming them into affordable housing and vibrant community assets. Our endeavor aims to ignite local pride and empower residents to take charge of their future.

Facts & Figures:

1. Vacant Property Statistics:

• According to a report by the Japanese government, the number of vacant properties in Japan has risen by 13.8% over the past decade, reaching an estimated 8.46 million vacant properties in 2023. This increase has had a significant impact on local communities, leading to the decline in depopulated areas and the deterioration of public safety.

Source: Statistics Bureau of Japan

2. Economic Impact:

• Research conducted by Kobe University reveals that vacant properties result in an annual loss of 380 million dollars in local tax revenue in suburban and rural areas across the country. This revenue loss places a strain on essential community services, such as schools and public safety.

Source: NHK

3. Community Safety:

• A comprehensive study conducted by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism found that neighborhoods with a high concentration of vacant properties experience [specific percentage] more reported crimes compared to areas without vacant properties. This includes incidents of vandalism, burglary, and even violent crimes.

Source: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism

These key learnings underscore the multifaceted nature of the vacant property issue. It's not limited to an aesthetic or real estate problem but extends into economic, community, and safety dimensions. Addressing vacant properties requires a holistic approach that takes into account their impact on local economies, public safety, and the overall quality of life in affected areas.

Within our framework, THRIVE represents our commitment:

Our project aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular focus on:

1. No Poverty (SDG 1): We're working to eradicate poverty by enhancing living conditions and economic opportunities for disadvantaged communities through our affordable housing solutions and economic revitalization efforts.

2. Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8): Our mission is to promote sustainable economic growth, full employment, and decent work for all by revitalizing rural and suburban areas, thus creating economic opportunities.

3. Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11): Our central focus revolves around revitalizing these areas, improving housing, and enhancing local communities in alignment with SDG 11's goal to create inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and human settlements.

Roadmap: Our three-year roadmap outlines our journey to revitalize rural and suburban areas.

Year 1:

• Research & Analysis: Understand local challenges.

• Community Engagement: Involve residents and stakeholders.

• Pilot Initiatives: Test strategies in select neighborhoods.

• Establish Partnerships: Collaborate with local entities.

Year 2:

• Implementation & Development: Put plans into action.

• Housing Solutions: Address vacant properties and affordable housing.

• Infrastructure Revitalization: Improve community infrastructure.

• Sustainability Integration: Prioritize eco-friendly practices.

Year 3:

• Scaling & Expansion: Widen our reach.

• Monitoring & Evaluation: Assess progress and adapt.

• Policy Advocacy: Advocate for supportive policies.

• Long-Term Sustainability: Empower communities for lasting change.

As we embark on this transformative journey, we extend an invitation to join us in creating lasting change. Together, we will breathe new life into forgotten spaces, inspire local pride, and empower communities to thrive once more. Stay tuned for updates on our progress as we work together to bring our vision of revitalized rural and suburban areas to life.

"Architecture is the very mirror of life. You only have to cast your eyes on buildings to feel the presence of the past, the spirit of a place; they are the reflection of society." - I. M. Pei