This article by Carlos Moreno in the Italian magazine ‘Urbanistica Informazione’, in the context of the Biennale on public space held in Rome in May 2023, discusses the 15-minute city concept as a new urban planning model that proposes to design cities in a way that allows residents to access all their essential needs within a 15-minute walk or bike ride. These essential needs include housing, work, healthcare, education, shopping, and leisure. The concept is based on the principles of polycentrism, multi-functionality, and the availability of services. It is a break from traditional urban zoning, which has led to sprawling cities with specialized locations for different functions.
The article explains that the 15-minute city concept has gained global traction in recent years, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the importance of local living and resilience. The concept has been endorsed by the C40 Cities network, a global coalition of major cities, and is being implemented in cities around the world, such as Paris and Milan.
The 15-minute city concept has a number of potential benefits, including improved public health, reduced carbon emissions, and increased social cohesion. It can also help to create more livable, equitable, and sustainable cities
