The Special Issue explores how contemporary societies address environmental, economic, social, and cultural challenges through urban and regional policies, aiming to protect the environment and ensure a high standard of living and sustainable development for their citizens with a particular emphasis on circular economy. The condition of the environment in a city or region, whether it is already developed or still developing, is identified as a critical determinant of long-term economic growth. Moreover, the social and cultural contexts of urban areas are equally crucial for achieving an enhanced quality of life. 

The Special Issue emphasizes the imperative to integrate these four pillars into coherent policies that address both immediate needs and long-term development objectives. 

1. Environmental sustainability is presented as a key concern in urban planning, particularly in light of the growing pressures cities face from climate change, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources.
2. Economic sustainability, on the other hand, pertains to the creation of resilient, inclusive economies that promote equitable opportunities for growth, while safeguarding ecological and social systems.
3. Social sustainability is concerned with fostering equity, inclusion, and social cohesion, particularly in relation to access to housing, education, and healthcare.
4. Cultural sustainability, which is frequently undervalued, is seen as essential for preserving the identity and diversity of cities, safeguarding heritage, promoting cultural expression, and ensuring that modernization efforts do not erode the distinctive characteristics that make cities and regions vibrant and livable. 

The Special Issue places particular emphasis on the use of case studies and field research to illustrate the practical application of these pillars within urban and regional policy frameworks. These empirical examples provide valuable insights into how theoretical concepts of sustainability are operationalized in practice. 

• For instance, some cities have implemented green infrastructure projects that not only improve air quality but also stimulate economic growth through the creation of jobs. In other regions, community-driven initiatives seek to balance contemporary development with the preservation of cultural heritage sites. 

By presenting these empirical findings, the Special Issue aims to:

1. contribute to the enrichment of scientific literature on sustainable development,
2. offer evidence-based models for success,
3. call for continued research and innovation in the pursuit of sustainable urban and regional planning that enhances the quality of life for present and future generations. 

The issue will also include papers presented at the 3rd OPEN-AIR Cities International Conference scheduled for December 5-7, 2025, in Athens, Greece (https://www.openaircities.org/).

Keywords: sustainability, quality of life, cities, regions, environment, society, economy

Additional Information: Publishing Sustainability and Quality of Life in Cities and Regions: Field Researches and Case Studies has strong appeal due to growing interest in urban sustainability. Its use spans academia, policy-making, and professional development, with a focus on case studies that offer real-world applications. This book could serve as a foundational text globally, supporting urban planners, sustainability experts, and researchers with actionable insights on sustainable urban development.