Strategic Planning Based on Ecological Wisdom forDevelopment of Urban Underground Spaces with Livability Approach (Case Study: Desert City of Yazd)

Urban landscape can have potential in creating dynamic and livable communities when it interacts optimally with its ecological context. Underground or subsurface spaces of desert cities can be considered as a kind of spaces based on ecological wisdom that reflects socio-ecological perception and creates a cultural commitment of individuals to the correct interaction of natural environment and artificial environment. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to analyze the role of underground spaces in promoting the livability of desert cities and to emphasize planning based on ecological wisdom to create urban spaces compatible with the ecological context. The research method in this study is descriptive-analytical, based on the qualitative method and logical reasoning. To evaluate the effect of underground space functions on the livability criteria of desert cities, T-test and SPSS statistical analysis were used, and to strategically analyze underground spaces, SWOT technique and AHP hierarchical analysis were used and finally, adaptive, defensive, offensive, and contingency strategies were presented. The results indicate that the regeneration of the principles of ecological wisdom in the process of strategic planning of the subsurface spaces development requires a kind of participatory and communication planning between members of society on the one hand and also society and nature on the other hand. Such regeneration can pave the way for the sustainability, resilience, and livability of urban ecosystems.