Date of Award

5-2005

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

College/School

College of Science and Mathematics

Department/Program

Earth and Environmental Studies

Thesis Sponsor/Dissertation Chair/Project Chair

Huan Feng

Committee Member

Harbans Singh

Committee Member

Eric Stern

Abstract

This thesis aims to concisely emphasize and demonstrate the importance of the connection between urban and natural environments, towards fostering a strong and healthy quality of life for its citizens.

The notion of applying an integrated comprehensive approach to city planning and environmental restoration (such as brownfields redevelopment) is lacking throughout many communities. On the other hand, "success stories" exist around the world that link a comprehensive city plan and environmental restoration to their successes. These attestations of accomplishments demonstrate that regardless of the geographical or economic circumstances, this thesis concept might be applied.

This thesis concept is simplified by identifying a catalyst shaped by major components needed in order to acquire a successful revitalization of a city. The importance of restoring the environment in order to restore the vitality of a city is crucial, as proven in the Winnipeg, Chengdu and Curitiba cases. This thesis selected Camden, New Jersey as an example for a potential application of this concept. Camden is challenged to use as did the above mentioned cities a holistic environmental management approach which would replace the piecemeal approach that has prevailed until now. Further, it is suggested that many of Camden's answers to its urban problems might be found within the city when these perplexities are transformed into assets such as brownfields redevelopment.

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