ENERGY RETROFIT AND URBAN RENOVATION. APPLICATION OF SBTOOL METHOD. A CASE STUDY IN TRAPANI, ITALY

Abstract

Climate changes caused by carbon emissions are nowadays considered as one of the greatest threats faced by humanity, because they cause problems of human health and poor prospects for global economy. It means that, also in the field of architecture and urban planning, there is an urgency to find appropriate solutions to face this issue, as demonstrated by the increasing amount of normative measures and policy at global level. The paper aims to show a critical analysis of the urban context conducted through the application of sustainability assessment tool - SBTool - into the social housing complex of Cappuccinelli district, chosen as case study. The choice for applying this methodology, which considers many aspects of urban environment, is due to the present necessity to adopt languages and tools that could be internationally interpreted and acknowledged. In the case of Cappuccinelli district, the method has been applied through the selection and analysis of some sustainable urban indicators related to: the distribution of green spaces, the connectivity of green spaces and the use of indigenous vegetation. The indicators have been properly assessed based on the available information and assessment method adapted to the geographic area where the district is located. The aim of this evaluation is to ensure the wellbeing of the local residents and to improve climate conditions for the users. The evaluation is also related to the buildings rehabilitation/retrofit.