Sustainable Regenerative Urban Design Standards for Coastal Areas: An Integrated Approach to Climate Change Adaptation and Environmental Development

Coastal areas are among the most climate-sensitive ecosystems, with nearly 40% of the global population residing within 100 kilometres of coastlines. These zones host over 70% of the world’s major cities and are increasingly threatened by urban expansion, population growth, shoreline erosion, sea level rise, and habitat degradation. According to the IPCC (2023), sea levels are expected to rise by 0.6 to 1.1 meters by 2100, endangering low-lying regions and displacing millions. UNEP (2021) estimates that damages from coastal storms and flooding may exceed $1 trillion annually by 2050 without effective adaptation. In response, sustainable regenerative design offers a progressive approach that not only mitigates environmental harm but also restores ecosystems, enhances natural balance, and promotes socio-economic well-being. This design paradigm is especially suited for coastal areas due to their complex needs in infrastructure, land use, energy, and water systems. This study aims to identify standards of regenerative urban design tailored for coastal contexts by reviewing literature, analyzing global project case studies, and exploring theoretical and applied frameworks. Using a comparative analytical method, it seeks to develop a comprehensive model that supports climate adaptation and sustainable coastal development.