Collaborative Enhancements of Community Walking Environments for Low-Carbon Development and Age-Friendly Objectives: A Systematic Review

As global urbanization accelerates and the challenges of an aging population and climate change intensify, the need for sustainable and inclusive urban design has never been more pressing. This study examines the intersection of low-carbon strategies and age-friendly walking environments, focusing on how collaborative approaches can optimize community spaces for elderly mobility while meeting sustainability goals. A comprehensive literature review, systematically conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines, examines the role of walking networks, green spaces, and public facilities in creating low-carbon, accessible, and health-enhancing environments. The research reveals a gap in integrating low-carbon goals with elderly mobility needs, stressing the importance of collaborative governance in urban planning. This collaborative synergy—combining community input, urban policy, and low-carbon design solutions—can create environments that not only reduce emissions but also enhance elderly well-being. By exploring the synergies between these elements, the study proposes a framework for collaborative urban planning that ensures both environmental sustainability and the well-being of elderly populations. The results suggest that integrating low-carbon principles with age-friendly design can simultaneously reduce carbon emissions and improve the quality of life for elderly residents. Future research should focus on refining this framework and addressing the barriers to effective collaboration in urban planning.