The prevailing weather conditions continue to favour difficult-to-control phenomena. Although we already discussed water in previous issues, the persistent drought that affected Spain last summer led to a noticeable rise in wildfires, especially in the western regions. Galicia and Extremadura suffered significant deforestation, with about 400,000 hectares burned, along with the destruction of homes and the displacement of residents. Spain has 28.5 million hectares of forest—56% of its national territory—49% of which is protected. This does nothing but reveal an alarming situation that demands changes in management, particularly in prevention, land use, and the allocation of human and financial resources when fires occur.

Debate is currently underway, but it seems likely to fail again, as it does every year. Wildfires should have prompted serious reflection. However, we seem to be heading towards oblivion once more. It is widely acknowledged that there is a lack of planning, personnel, and funding. Therefore, stronger prevention efforts and more proactive measures are urgently needed. In most cases, the current situation stems from the abandonment of large areas of land and the loss of traditional practices that once generated economic value. The countryside still holds great potential for development, with opportunities for timber production, biomass, and recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking. These activities help boost biodiversity, capture carbon, and play an essential role in shaping the landscape.

This context highlights the importance of comprehensive planning. Management plans can serve as effective tools, but their use remains limited due to intellectual property restrictions and poor promotion. Urban planning also needs attention. It can regulate land use, yet it often prioritizes conservation over innovation. Planning must allow forests to be used rationally and profitably. As noted elsewhere in this issue, there is a pressing need for “long-term management and a planning framework that combines flexibility with local context.”

Housing has become one of today’s most pressing challenges in our increasingly urban world. The Higher Council of Architects’ Associations of Spain (CSCAE) recently presented its “Diagnosis and Proposals to Solve the Housing Problem in Spain.” One of its main ideas focuses on the territorial model, stating: “Faced with models of infinite growth in large cities, which are not considered sustainable, state and regional policies must help rebalance the territory, with a firm commitment to medium-sized cities. These cities cannot, on their own, attract resources within competitive decision-making systems.” Once again, we face the need for more agile and flexible planning. This new issue of Planur-e shows that a shared language is emerging across regions. Nature-based solutions and re-naturalization are becoming increasingly common, while the value of ecosystem services is gaining recognition.

Months after the floods faded from public memory, we have gone beyond calling for accountability and funding by taking action. Some of these measures are long-standing but forgotten; others are new, necessary, or driven by specific projects—all aimed at restoring the role of water in urban design. This issue includes four articles that explore water from different perspectives.

With the evocative title “Flood Planning to Prevent Flooding,” the first article presents a pilot model that could be replicated at various scales. It begins with the Antwerp Water Plan, implemented in 2019 across the city. The plan reconnects and widens watercourses and promotes green infrastructure, including retention and infiltration areas. It follows a research-by-design approach aligned with regional climate adaptation policies, with phased implementation and strong monitoring.

Another citywide project is underway in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It aims to restore the ecological and social functions of ravines, key elements of the Canary Islands’ landscape and cultural identity. The project, which received a CSCAE award this year, identifies areas for naturalization and outlines specific strategies through a catalog of technical solutions and intervention areas. Its conclusion is clear: “It is possible to intervene throughout the city with a single philosophy—one that allows nature and the city to coexist.”

In Ontinyent, the project responds to the floods caused by a cut-off low two years ago. It reduces flood risks from the river while reclaiming the area for community use. The project began by purchasing buildings at risk and relocating their residents. It connects the urban and natural environments within a flood-prone zone and was designed with simplicity, recognizing that periodic intervention will be needed. The result is an urban park that acts as infrastructure to absorb flooding and restore the environment.

A fourth article addresses the redevelopment of a dry riverbed in La Paz, Baja California Sur. The riverbed is now a “multifunctional corridor that mitigates flood risks, improves connectivity, and ensures equitable access to public spaces.” The project, described as a “model of comprehensive urban regeneration,” aligns with the Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. It offers scalable solutions for other medium-sized Latin American cities and integrates sport, culture, accessibility, and resilience through multidisciplinary collaboration.

Another article presents the transformation of a 210-hectare aerodrome in Toronto. The project uses a community-based construction model built on “shared values: community, ecology, long-term management, and the belief that good city building relies on collaboration.” After an international competition, the design evolved around four guiding principles that “did not prescribe a plan but instead charted a direction and provided a flexible framework shaped by dialogue, iteration, and community input.” The proposal outlines a thirty-year strategy based on five points: design frameworks, not closed plans; build culture before the plan; lead with narratives; sustainability requires systemic thinking; and avoid overambitious goals.

Two projects explore similar themes at different scales, both inspired by Arab architecture—citadels and city gates. The first, in Vélez-Málaga, includes a viewpoint overlooking the gardens near the citadel, the restoration of a degraded green area, and rainwater reuse. Handcrafted terracotta pieces from local tile workshops play a key role. A series of viewpoints will enhance both the beauty of the landscape and the social use of public space.

The second project, in Fez, focuses on restoring the gate to the medina. It combines tradition and innovation while involving the local community. Water plays a vital role, as two waterways meet at the site. As a World Heritage location, the project had to meet several requirements, including heritage preservation, sustainability, revitalization, economic productivity, and respect for Islamic and artisanal culture. The team—including local artisans—carried out the work with great care and deep knowledge of the area.

Finally, the “Lighting and Nighttime Landscape Plan for the Historic Center of A Coruña” tackles an often-overlooked topic that is especially relevant for urban areas. Lighting should enhance public spaces, encourage social interaction after sunset, highlight historical landmarks, and support both the nighttime economy and urban life.

With such a wide range of contributions, this autumn issue brings renewed attention to the professional practices that help improve our quality of life.