The Biophysical Environment: Key Ingredient in Shaping the Built Environment

The chapter explores the role of the biophysical environment, which is the natural environment, in shaping the built (the human-cultural) environment. It argues that the major source of problems affecting the biophysical environment is a result of the exploitative relationship between the two environments in favour of the built environment, yet the biophysical environment has the potential to shape the built environment. A mixed-methods research approach was adopted in the study. Documentary review was used to collect secondary data from relevant sources. Findings reveal that the biophysical environment is a key component in shaping the built environment because it presents multiple opportunities and resources that are critical to the functioning of cities. The biophysical environmental aspects considered are water, geomorphological assets, climate, soil and ecological resources. It is concluded that although cities present multiple challenges to the biophysical environment, there are options for improved and sustainable built environments presented by the biophysical environment. Recommended are planning, design and management of statutes and frameworks for the built environments that have provisions for the incorporation of the biophysical environment in the preparation of plans that guide the development of the built environment.