RSS 1.0Senior Capstones
ABOUT THE COLLECTION
The Senior Capstone is the culminating experience for Sustainable Built Environment majors involving a substantive project that demonstrates a synthesis of learning accumulated in the major, including broadly comprehensive knowledge of the discipline and its methodologies. It is intended to be a personalized experience in which a student explores a concept in-depth while incorporating the knowledge or investigative techniques learned during his or her undergraduate career. Students are encouraged to build upon their major Emphasis Area, internship, or a previously completed project or research topic for the starting point of their Senior Capstone experience.
QUESTIONS?
For more information, please visit: http://sbe.arizona.edu.
Recent Submissions
-
Sustainable Data Centers for Smart City DevelopmentData centers are an essential component for data driven societies. They are large contributors to energy and water consumption, leading to the importance of developing sustainably operating data centers. Due to the significance of sustainability, locations must meet criteria of sustainable data center site selection. Smart cities and developing smart city locations require a data center to progress with their smart city objectives of sustainable operation for the betterment of quality of life with social, economic, and environmental benefits. This study aims to analyze the progression of developing smart cities with the implementation of a sustainable data center by identifying site selection requirements for green data centers to determine its compatibility with the developing smart city location, and what benefits they produce as a result. Through a comprehensive case study, interview, and secondary analysis, qualitative data is analyzed to determine Tucson as an ideal sustainable data center location, and how a sustainable data center enhances its progress toward a smarter city through social, economic, and environmental determinants. The analysis of Tucson’s landscape contributes to the eligibility of a sustainable data center with renewable energy, water conservation, and other factors aligning with smart city objectives. Tucson would further its smart city development from implementing a sustainable data center due to the smart objectives of connecting communities with data-driven technologies to enhance the quality of life. Social, economic, and environmental elements, for example smarter healthcare, expansion into secondary markets, water conservation, renewable energy, stronger networks, and other aspects of growing smart cities are benefiting from the incorporation of a green data center, allowing Tucson to strengthen its community and smarter development. The data in this research suggests that developing smart cities should evaluate their compatibility with green centers to increase the expansion of sustainably operating data center locations; by understanding the importance of sustainable data centers roles in smart city development, cities further benefit communities while mitigating negative social, economic, and environmental impacts from unsustainable centers.
-
Rebuilding Knowledge: Using Gamified Education to Shift Perceptions of Natural BuildingAs climate change accelerates, bringing higher temperatures and more aggressive storms and natural disasters, the need for our built environment to reflect a place of resilience is becoming increasingly urgent. The construction and building sector is responsible for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions, and this doesn’t include its broader environmental damage, including issues like deforestation, toxic air and water pollution, excessive waste, and other forms of ecological degradation. Despite the proven benefits of natural building materials like adobe, straw bale, and earthbag, these and other natural building styles remain on the fringe of mainstream construction. This capstone investigates the role that education, training and outreach play in furthering understanding and acceptance of these building methods, and explores the potential of gamification in contributing to that shift. Drawing from expert interviews, a public feedback survey, and iterative design and testing of a gamified learning tool titled Rebuild, this project examines how the creation of an immersive, emotionally engaging board game can shift perspectives on natural building, and the sustainability of the construction industry as a whole. By targeting learners outside conventional sustainability spaces, the game offers a tangible entry point that helps normalize natural building concepts, and support wider adoption. Findings from the study suggest that Rebuild is a promising tool for expanding natural building education, and could be further refined into a scalable, innovative pathway for knowledge distribution.
-
Campus Walkability and Safety Factors Influencing Pedestrian UseThis study examined how safety-related features of the built and natural environment affect pedestrian activity on the University of Arizona campus. Thirteen study areas were selected based on a preliminary survey of walking path preferences. Foot traffic was counted at each site, and safety attributes such as shade, tree count, sidewalk width, and proximity to cars or bus stops were recorded. These attributes were combined into a SafetyScore for each area. A regression analysis showed that none of the safety factors were strong predictors of pedestrian use. Percent shaded had the highest R² value at 0.21, while others were much lower. The SafetyScore also showed a weak relationship with foot traffic. These results suggest that other influences not measured in this study may guide where people choose to walk. Improvements such as expanding the study areas, including more safety variables, and conducting follow-up interviews may strengthen future research.
-
Incomplete HomesUnsafe Street in Jacksonville, Florida and what can we do to make it safer with complete street practices. The incomplete street equals incomplete communities. New developments are not being connected with existing ones, which create unsafe areas. Many are killed while walking on incomplete streets. Claire Lane is in Jacksonville, Florida, and is not only unsafe for pedestrians but also vehicles that cross between plazas. This road has many issues such as bad pedestrian lighting and ditches that pedestrians must walk by. Claire Lane is a street that connects to San Jose Boulevard that goes through residential, apartments, and two commercial plazas. The lack of sidewalks, the presence of ditches, poor lighting, and traffic cause this area to be unsafe to pedestrians and vehicles. The volume of traffic in this area is high because of the commercial retail stores and restaurants, including Walmart. This study is to provide awareness on unsafe streets and to provide recommendation for a transition to a “Complete Streets” model. Adding elements such as sidewalks, lighting, traffic separators, changing pavement marking lines, and adding a bioswale design with a new pedestrian crossing for the apartment nearby can create a complete street and will help reduce risk of mortality. While gathering data from the community with an online survey questionnaire, it pointed me to the right direction and topics on what the people need in their neighborhood. With my expertise, I have gathered true data on crashes that are occurring in Claire Lane that can be linked to these missing elements that a complete street will bring. Most important question is why this corridor hasn’t been attempted to with these updated elements? The findings made me bring ideas and safety design to make this road updated the current standards, adding a new 6’ width sidewalk, curb ramp, pedestrian lighting, and a median guide to help traffic flow in decrease accident between two plazas. Having a complete street policy or the idea of how city officials handle these practices will make neighborhoods safer and promote the economy. By adding these concepts of "complete streets" planning, designing, and construction of streets elements, that allow safe access for all users, including drivers and pedestrians.
-
Workout to Wattage: Harnessing Kinetic Energy from Gym Equipment as an Alternative Energy SourceAs global energy demands rise and sustainability becomes a critical concern, there’s a growing need for creative solutions that reduce our reliance on traditional power sources. Gyms are uniquely positioned to evolve into spaces that promote both physical health and renewable energy. This research explores the potential of capturing kinetic energy from exercise equipment and converting it into electricity, offering a new way to cut energy consumption in fitness facilities. Insights from gym users and industry professionals show strong support for eco-conscious upgrades, even as challenges like high costs and limited efficiency remain. By merging fitness with sustainability, this study highlights how the built environment can support both personal well-being and a healthier planet.
-
Urban Future Walkability RatingsThis study ranks seven different cities in the Western United States on their plans for improving urban walkability. The seven cities included are Scottsdale, AZ; Las Vegas, NV; Los Angeles, CA; San Antonio, TX; Portland, OR; San Francisco, CA; and Denver, CO. Each of these cities is ranked based on its most up-to-date walkability-action plan that is produced either by the city government or by a campaign organization directly affiliated with the city government. A set of criteria was developed based on the data found in similar studies. After the nine criteria were determined, each of the city’s action plans was assessed on both the inclusion and detail of the criteria. The city was then given a score for each category. A score of 0 indicates that the criterion was not mentioned in the action plan at all while 1 point means it was mentioned, but without any actionable plan or specific information on how it would be implemented, and 2 points means it was not only mentioned in the plan, but there were concrete examples of where and when it would be implemented. Ultimately, the scores were as follows: Los Angeles and San Antonio, 15 Points each; Scottsdale and Denver, 13 points each; San Francisco, 9 Points; Las Vegas, 7 Points; and Portland, 3 Points. The cities with the highest scores (Los Angeles and San Antonio) aren’t those with the best walkability currently, but rather those that have the most detailed and transparent plans to improve their walkability in the future. This study highlights the cities’ plans to promote urban resiliency, which is important to understand considering the many compounding challenges, such as climate change and population growth, that impact urban areas.
-
Potential, Design Characteristics, and Barriers of Infill Development in Tucson: A Case Study of El Con MallTucson, Arizona, is a low-density city that is experiencing a major housing shortage despite access to large tracts of undeveloped land—like the one found at the parking lot of El Con Mall. Previous research shows that housing is needed in Tucson and that infill development at greyfield sites is an option to increase the housing supply within city limits. Infill development can also spur economic activity, increase density, and improve walkability. This study uses interviews with two urban planning professors, two city planners, and a community member/former city councilman to find out the housing potential, essential design characteristics, and the main obstacles to greyfield redevelopment at El Con. It was found that over 1,000 housing units are possible at El Con. Development should include medium-density, mixed-use, market-rate housing no higher than three or four stories with green space in conjunction with improved walk, bike, and transit infrastructure. The biggest barrier to infill is neighborhood resistance, which can be navigated with education, inclusion, and amenities. Infill projects are context-specific, but the process of this study can be replicated at other sites. Future research should study the financial and political requirements to successfully develop housing at El Con.
-
Greening the Grid: The Power of Public Awareness and Policy in Advancing Green Infrastructure in HawaiʻiThis research examines green infrastructure (GI) – natural and engineered systems, like trees and permeable pavement – and aims to address its key benefits in mitigating the urban heat island (UHI) effect and lowering excessive energy consumption habits in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. The UHI effect has created a plague of extreme heat on the densely packed island of Oʻahu due to heat-absorbing materials, like asphalt and concrete, creating a slightly warmer and uncomfortable environment. This effect is creating the need for sustainable, non-traditional strategies, such as GI, to help alleviate the impact of rising temperatures and high energy consumption. However, challenges like limited public awareness, policy support, and maintenance requirements have delayed GI adoption in Honolulu. Through surveys, stakeholder interviews, and secondary data analysis, this study identifies solutions to implementing more GI on the island, including the placement of governmental incentives, better community engagement, and long-term maintenance solutions. A site-specific analysis of Waimalu Plaza in Honolulu, HI is used to evaluate how urban forests could improve energy efficiency and reduce heat exposure in one of the biggest UHI hot spots on the island. The findings from this study suggest that while GI provides numerous benefits, its long-term effects depend on proper maintenance, sufficient financial support, and the help of the community to support its success. The study tells of the benefits and challenges of implementing green infrastructure into Hawaiʻi’s unique environment to create a more sustainable and climate-resilient city.
-
Recreational Heat Exposure to Youth Populations in Tucson, ArizonaThe exposure to extreme heat is both an environmental and a social issue. Youth populations are some of the most vulnerable to heat-related illness yet are often omitted in city plans and policies, further increasing their risk of exposure to the adverse impacts of extreme heat. A mixed-methodology approach using social mapping and plan evaluation was used to identify which areas within the greater Tucson area children are most vulnerable to extreme heat. The social mapping process identified a lack of services and areas where youth were particularly vulnerable to heat due to a lack of heat relief areas, like Flowing Wells and southeast Tucson. Evaluation of Tucson’s 2024 Heat Action Roadmap demonstrates the city’s clear mission to address heat resiliency equitably for vulnerable populations. Despite the inclusion of effective heat-specific strategies, very few were specific to youth populations.
-
Examining production of municipal solid waste for bulk pickup and median household income in Tucson, ArizonaThe relationship between socioeconomic factors like median household income and behavior tied to the production of bulk waste has important ramifications for improving municipal waste management systems. This study investigates this relationship among different neighborhoods in the city of Tucson, Arizona. Using direct observation methods in 18 neighborhoods of varying income levels within six waste management districts across the city, this study identifies the physical manifestation of the role household income plays in the production of bulk waste. Observation routes were designed in each of the 18 neighborhoods, keeping the number of parcels in each route constant for consistency. Observations recorded the amount of individual piles of trash placed on the side of the road for pickup, with a unit defined as a pile at least one square meter in size, no more than 10 cubic meters in volume, and at least three feet apart from other piles as defined by the city of Tucson. The study found that neighborhoods with a higher median household income produced more trash than those with lower income levels. This could be due to wealthier households having more disposable income that allows them to purchase more items that will eventually be discarded, that wealthier households move homes more frequently and thus need to discard furniture and appliances more frequently, or that wealthier households have more resources to undergo home renovations and therefore discard more bulk waste in the form of furniture, appliances, and building materials. Based on these results, practical applications of the data are discussed as they pertain to improving local waste management policies and strategies for waste reduction. Future studies should examine all 26 waste management districts and the types of waste produced.
-
What Can Better Solar Education Do?While Arizona has abundant solar resources, policy decisions, regulatory changes, and the absence of state level incentive programs has limited the states solar adoption rate. This study examines if better solar education can change the way people in Pima County, Arizona purchase, manage, or make decisions about solar energy technologies. With the counties high solar irradiance of almost 300 days of sunshine (80%) a year, solar power has serious potential, but adoption remains limited due to knowledge gaps, economic barriers, and policy challenges. This longitudinal survey was conducted across two semesters of Fall 2024 and Spring 2025, and there were 68 participants in the first survey and 74 participants in the second survey. Results show that better solar education is supported by over half (56%) of the participants surveyed, because they believe better solar education improves solar purchasing/management decisions. The interviews confirm the survey results, with cost savings as the main consumer driver, distrust in some solar companies, and the affordable option of Power Purchasing Agreement’s for people who cannot afford the cost of solar installation. The study further finds that solar education plays an important role in boosting solar adoption, addressing misinformation, and improving policy. The public’s support for solar education, incentives/rebates, and energy conservation programs, says that Pima County could greatly expand its clean energy sector, providing jobs, and clean energy for the future generations of this region.
-
Mitigating the Use and Waste of Water in the Construction Sector Regarding StuccoThis Capstone research was conducted to assess the issue of water waste in construction, more specifically how it is involved with the process of stucco; a very popular construction practice that is used here in Arizona and how the water use could be mitigated. Construction is already a process that puts a very heavy use on water due to several factors including requirements from common practices, clean up, and dust control. In the state of Arizona, these factors are somewhat multiplied due to the various materials that are used and the plentitude of dust that requires water to keep settled. With fresh water access and water use already being a worldwide problem, it is imperative that water management becomes one the top priorities. Millions of gallons of water are used everyday in stucco assembly and clean up so it is critical to create and implement methods that help cut back on how much water is used. To spearhead finding a solution, this research used storytelling, first person observations and document analysis. The discussions and conclusions allowed to develop a formula that can help quantify how much water is needed for a given amount of stucco plaster and ideas regarding how this practice can be implemented on all job sites.
-
Goshen Food Forest and Community SpaceFood forests are layered ecosystems that improve biodiversity through permaculture techniques, food security, environmental health, and community empowerment. Many food forests have been created throughout the country and world but often are designed based only on what grows native in that region. However, to create a successful food forest for the city, it must meet the needs of the residents. Data was collected from residents of Goshen, Indiana, through surveys, systematic document review, and observational analyses to find the most valuable produce to be included in the food forest design. This data provided context for resident demographics and locations, food growth interest, and preferences for a community space. Case studies of other food forests, reports, and weather data emphasize the value that vegetation has on communities, the importance of local businesses, and how growing conditions can be utilized for successful yield. The study found that many fruits, vegetables, and herbs that Goshen residents prefer can grow in the Northern Indiana climatic region and the community space should prioritize water, seating, and open space. Through utilization of collected data from residents and information from case studies of food forests, a sustainable design for the site can be created. Localism, walkability, and health are priorities for Goshen residents and the implementation of a food forest and community space in the city can provide support for the diverse populations through free and accessible healthy produce.
-
Post disaster urban resiliency: a case study of Los Angeles wildfiresWildfires are a growing threat to urban development in California, particularly in Los Angeles where expanding neighborhoods continue to overlap with high-risk fire zones. This study explores whether repeated wildfire disasters motivate urban planners to adopt resilience strategies in real estate development. By combining a literature review with policy analysis and a qualitative interview with a professional in the planning field, the research looks at how planners, developers, and governments respond to post-wildfire challenges. Key themes include the political and structural barriers that prevent long-term resiliency planning. Case studies from Paradise, Santa Rosa, and Boulder demonstrate how some cities implement resilience, while others revert to pre-disaster norms. Findings suggest that although awareness of wildfire risk is increasing, the incorporation of resilient urban planning remains inconsistent due to political influence, limited government authority, and economic pressures. The study shows that improving wildfire recovery takes more than just more resilient building. It also needs support from politicians, the community, and stronger rules.
-
Identifying Locations for Wildlife Crossing in Tucson, ArizonaAs the population expands, interactions between humans and wildlife are increasing. In Tucson Arizona, bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, and javelinas are common visitors, and while not all interactions between humans and animals are negative, negative interactions do happen. There are many ways to decrease wildlife-human interactions and wildlife crossing is one of them. Using a mixed method approach based on case study examination and secondary data analysis, this research aims to identify areas where wildlife crossings in Tucson should be placed. Using data from iNaturalist and the Pima County Open Geodatabase on wildlife sightings, roadkill locations, and tree equity scores, multiple maps were created in ArcGIS Pro to locate areas where wildlife crossings are needed in Tucson. The results showed significant sightings of bobcats, mountain lions, javelinas, and coyotes in Tucson, Arizona. A lot of them are in the upper half of Tucson, closer to current wildlife crossings as well as areas with high tree density. This is important because while there are quite a few wildlife sightings in Tucson, there are no wildlife crossings in Tucson. Some policies that can be added to decrease wildlife-human interaction include a ban on leaving pet food outside or adding a wildlife feeding ordinance that keeps humans from feeding wildlife. Further research can examine why wildlife are attracted to certain areas in Tucson and the potential of creating wildlife crossing in areas with high wildlife sightings and deaths.
-
Seeking Solutions to Traffic Congestion in Surco, LimaTraffic congestion in Surco has become a serious issue due to rapid urban growth, limited infrastructure, and insufficient public transportation options. Most residents face daily commutes that take over an hour, causing frustration, lost productivity, and reduced quality of life. The lack of proper bike lanes and well-maintained sidewalks forces many people to rely on private cars for even short trips, worsening traffic jams and increasing pollution. This research examines the main causes of traffic problems and suggests practical solutions to improve mobility and make daily travel more efficient. The main objective of is to propose practical solutions to address traffic congestion on four major avenues in Surco. These solutions focus on encouraging the use of bicycles by developing better bike lanes infrastructure and enhancing public transportation to make it more efficient and accessible. By prioritizing these sustainable modes of transport, the research aims to reduce the reliance on private vehicles, improve mobility, and create a safer and more inclusive urban environment for all residents and commuters.
-
Enhancing urban sustainability and social inclusion through basketball infrastructure in Lima centroBasketball infrastructure has the potential to address urban challenges by fostering social inclusion, sustainability, and community resilience. In Lima Centro, inadequate sports facilities, coupled with limited public spaces and social inequalities, have hindered the development of basketball as a tool for urban transformation. Currently, only 40% of Lima Basketball League teams are based in this area, reflecting disparities in resource distribution and accessibility. This research explores how basketball infrastructure can foster sustainable urban environments and promote social inclusion. A mixed-methods approach was applied, incorporating case studies of successful initiatives in Latin America, a survey of Lima Centro residents and basketball players to assess needs and perceptions and a SWOT analysis to evaluate the internal and external factors influencing basketball infrastructure development. The analysis revealed that well-designed basketball facilities can enhance social cohesion, stimulate local economies, and reduce environmental impact. Key factors include integrating community participation and adopting sustainable construction practices. These findings suggest that basketball courts, beyond serving as recreational spaces, can function as catalysts for broader urban revitalization. By aligning sports infrastructure development with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 10 and 11, this research provides actionable insights for urban planners and policymakers seeking to address social and environmental challenges in densely populated urban areas like Lima Centro. Findings highlight that basketball courts, when integrated with sustainable urban planning principles, can enhance social cohesion, promote physical activity, and stimulate local economies. This research highlights the importance of accessible, inclusive, and environmentally responsible sports infrastructure as a catalyst of sustainable urban development in Lima Centro.
-
Impact Of The Wall Of Shame On MobilityLima's history has been marked by significant demographic shifts, beginning with Spanish colonization, followed by internal migration, and more recently, Venezuelan immigration. This rapid urban growth has put immense pressure on the city's infrastructure and basic services, triggering different policy responses. One particularly striking example of this urban evolution is the "Wall of Shame," a 10-kilometer barrier separating the poor district of Villa María del Triunfo from the affluent district of La Molina. This physical division has had profound consequences for the residents on both sides, particularly in terms of mobility and access to opportunities. Through interviews with residents and a detailed analysis of the area, this research shows the disparities between the two sides of the wall. Residents in Villa María del Triunfo face numerous challenges in accessing essential services, employment opportunities, and public transportation due to the physical and social barriers imposed by the wall. The limited mobility of these residents significantly impacts their quality of life and restricts their ability to participate fully in society. Beyond the physical impact of the wall, it also created a psychological divide, fostering feelings of isolation and marginalization among the residents of Villa María del Triunfo. This social segregation reinforces existing inequalities and makes even more difficult promoting social cohesion and urban integration.
-
A Comparative Study Between Two Districts in Lima, Peru: A Case for Equitable Green Space DistributionThis study examines the disparities in green space access and quality between two districts in Lima, Peru: Santiago de Surco, characterized by organized urban planning and substantial green infrastructure, and Villa María del Triunfo, which faces challenges due to informal growth and limited public investment. Through a mixed-method approach—including spatial analysis, field observations, and resident interviews—the research identifies critical inequities in green area distribution, infrastructure quality, and safety. Findings reveal that while Surco benefits from well-maintained parks and equitable green space allocation, Villa María del Triunfo struggles with underutilized, poorly maintained parks and minimal recreational infrastructure, exacerbating social and environmental vulnerabilities. This study highlights the urgent need for inclusive urban policies that prioritize green space revitalization in underprivileged areas. Recommendations include enhancing existing parks with basic amenities and promote urban green spaces in low socioeconomic districts of Lima. The research contributes to advancing equitable urban development practices and underscores the role of green spaces in promoting environmental justice and well-being in rapidly urbanizing contexts.
-
The Role of Traditional Storytelling in El Niño Preparedness in La Libertad, PeruThis research investigates the role of traditional storytelling in disaster preparedness, focusing on the impacts of the El Niño phenomenon in La Libertad region of Peru. This study examines the intergenerational transfer of knowledge among members of La Libertad and emphasizes the contributions of grandparents in teaching younger generations about environmental patterns, and disaster mitigation practices. The findings of this study reveal the importance of oral storytelling, including natural processes, myths, and observations of natural signs in strengthening community preparedness. However, there are challenges as urbanization, digital media, and Peruvian educational systems that overlook traditional knowledge and threaten the preservation of these sustainable practices. Through interviews with parents from La Libertad and native experts, this research identifies opportunities to integrate native storytelling into formal education, combining traditional knowledge with modern science to improve disaster preparedness and maintain cultural heritage. This study advocates for educational programs and community hands-on practices that promote that future generations can be equipped to face climate challenges while honoring traditional wisdom.
