A Review of Walkability Criticism: When Is the Walkable Approach Not a Good Idea?

This chapter investigates the role of walkability as a practical and health-oriented solution for addressing contemporary mobility challenges in urban environments. While existing research on pedestrian approaches generally focuses on fixed factors, researchers frequently overlook the diversity among pedestrians, taking into account variables such as age, gender, ability, and willingness to walk. Employing a descriptive and analytical research methodology, the study systematically analyzes research findings, utilizing the keyword “criticism of walkability” in a search limited to 2012–2023. A total of 200 research articles are identified through Google Scholar and Semantic Scholar, with a focused analysis of 18 selected studies. Findings reveal critical concerns about walkability, particularly the neglect of higher-order socioeconomic and affective factors like social norms and comfort, reflecting an insufficient consideration of diversity. Inappropriate pedestrianization contributes to adverse effects on public health, escalating air and water pollution, heightened noise levels, and increased environmental incidents, resulting in amplified energy consumption, diminished environmental quality, and economic devaluation, ultimately impeding sustainable development in cities. Additionally, inadequate attention from urban officials to macro-walkability policies jeopardizes the creation of safe spaces for citizens.