Healthy Cities and the Concept of a "15-minute City"
Hari Srinivas
Explainer Series C-077
The concept of the 15-minute city aligns well with the principles of Healthy Cities, as both focus on improving the well-being of urban residents through thoughtful planning and accessibility. By integrating 15-minute city principles into Healthy Cities strategies, urban areas can create environments that actively promote physical, mental, and social well-being.
15-minute cities contribute to better health through -
1. Encouraging Active Lifestyles
Walking and cycling become the default modes of transportation, reducing sedentary behavior.
More green spaces and pedestrian-friendly streets promote outdoor activities.
By designing neighborhoods that make active transportation safe and convenient, the 15-minute city directly encourages daily physical activity. These urban forms help combat lifestyle-related health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, while also promoting mental well-being through regular movement and nature exposure.
2. Reducing Air Pollution and Noise
Less reliance on cars leads to lower emissions, improving respiratory health.
Reduced noise pollution decreases stress and related health issues like hypertension.
Compact urban design limits the need for long commutes and motor vehicle use, thereby lowering harmful emissions like nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter. This cleaner air benefits everyone, particularly children and the elderly, while the calmer soundscape of quieter neighborhoods creates a more peaceful and mentally restorative urban experience.
3. Enhancing Access to Healthcare and Services
Clinics, pharmacies, and wellness centers are within walking distance, promoting preventive care.
Mental health services become more accessible, encouraging regular check-ups and reducing stigma.
A 15-minute city ensures that essential health infrastructure is embedded in communities, making it easier for residents to maintain regular appointments and seek help early. Normalizing the presence of mental health services within daily life can break down barriers to care, especially among vulnerable populations.
Figure 1: Defining the borders of a "community" (which also define a 15-minute City)
4. Improving Food Security and Nutrition
Proximity to fresh food markets and urban farms encourages healthier eating.
Localized food systems reduce reliance on processed or unhealthy foods.
By integrating food sources into the neighborhood fabric, residents can access nutritious options without needing to travel far. This supports not only better individual diets but also community resilience through shorter supply chains and support for local agriculture, especially in times of crisis or disruption.
5. Strengthening Social Connections
Walkable neighborhoods foster interactions, reducing loneliness and improving mental health.
Public spaces enhance community engagement, leading to stronger social support networks.
When people can comfortably walk around their community, incidental interactions and neighborly bonds flourish. Shared parks, plazas, and community centers create informal gathering points that nurture a sense of belonging and collective identity, essential components of a healthy urban environment.
6. Reducing Stress and Enhancing Well-being
Shorter commute times lead to better work-life balance and reduced stress.
Easy access to leisure spaces, libraries, and cultural centers supports relaxation and cognitive health.
The 15-minute city removes the daily pressure of long travel times, freeing up time and mental energy for family, hobbies, and rest. Access to intellectually and culturally enriching spaces promotes lifelong learning, creativity, and emotional resilience, contributing to overall well-being.
7. Supporting Aging in Place
Elderly residents can remain independent with access to essential services.
Safe streets and barrier-free infrastructure reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
By embedding healthcare, shops, and social venues within walking distance, older adults can maintain autonomy and participate actively in community life. Thoughtful urban design, including ramps, benches, and well-lit paths, ensures that seniors navigate their environment with confidence and safety.
The concept of a 15-minute City is explored in detail in GDRC's Urban Governance programme. Have a look!
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