Linking impact assessment and sustainable development at the local level: the introduction of sustainability assessment systems

2000 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 67-78 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dimitri Devuyst
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Impact Assessment ◽  
Sustainability Assessment ◽  
Local Level ◽  
Assessment Systems

scholarly journals Neighbourhood Modelling for Urban Sustainability Assessment

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (9) ◽  
pp. 4654
Author(s):  
Javier Orozco-Messana ◽  
Milagro Iborra-Lucas ◽  
Raimon Calabuig-Moreno
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Impact Assessment ◽  
Urban Policy ◽  
Sustainability Assessment ◽  
Open Data ◽  
Policy Impact ◽  
Physical Parameters ◽  
Data Repositories ◽  
Digital Twins ◽  
Climate Action

Climate change is becoming a dominant concern for advanced countries. The Paris Agreement sets out a global framework whose implementation relates to all human activities and is commonly guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), which set the scene for sustainable development performance configuring all climate action related policies. Fast control of CO2 emissions necessarily involves cities since they are responsible for 70 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. SDG 11 (Sustainable cities and communities) is clearly involved in the deployment of SDG 13 (Climate Action). European Sustainability policies are financially guided by the European Green Deal for a climate neutral urban environment. In turn, a common framework for urban policy impact assessment must be based on architectural design tools, such as building certification, and common data repositories for standard digital building models. Many Neighbourhood Sustainability Assessment (NSA) tools have been developed but the growing availability of open data repositories for cities, together with big-data sources (provided through Internet of Things repositories), allow accurate neighbourhood simulations, or in other words, digital twins of neighbourhoods. These digital twins are excellent tools for policy impact assessment. After a careful analysis of current scientific literature, this paper provides a generic approach for a simple neighbourhood model developed from building physical parameters which meets relevant assessment requirements, while simultaneously being updated (and tested) against real open data repositories, and how this assessment is related to building certification tools. The proposal is validated by real data on energy consumption and on its application to the Benicalap neighbourhood in Valencia (Spain).

scholarly journals A CONCEPTUAL MODEL FOR INTEGRATING NON-MATERIAL COMPONENTS IN SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT

2018 ◽  
Vol 21 ◽  
Author(s):  
OSVALDO VIÉGAS ◽  
SANDRA CAEIRO ◽  
TOMÁS RAMOS
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Conceptual Model ◽  
Sustainability Assessment ◽  
Review Of The Literature ◽  
Practical Application ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Environmental Dimension ◽  
Assessment Systems ◽  
Local Levels

Abstract Researchers have adopted a concept for sustainable development (SD) that has given rise to different systems of sustainability assessment, systems to which several authors have suggested non-material components should be incorporated. This work aims at developing a conceptual model to integrate these components into systems of sustainability assessment. A review of the literature made it possible to design a conceptual model for the non-material components of sustainability and to identify associated themes. This proposal was analyzed at both regional and local levels through semi-structured interviews addressed to stakeholders from Alagoas and Maceió, Brazil. The proposal was considered by the actors involved (interviewees) to be generally adequate, and suggestions for improvement and adjustment were put forward by them, to facilitate both the understanding and practical application of the model. The analysis of the respondents’ perceptions allowed us to identify the preferred link between the term sustainability and the environmental dimension, as well as their restricted reference to intergenerational commitment.

Is HIA the most effective tool to assess the impact on health of climate change mitigation policies at the local level? A case study in Geneva, Switzerland

2017 ◽  
Vol 24 (2) ◽  
pp. 5-15 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thierno Diallo ◽  
Nicola Cantoreggi ◽  
Jean Simos ◽  
Derek P. T. H. Christie
Keyword(s):  
Impact Assessment ◽  
Sustainability Assessment ◽  
Local Level ◽  
Sustainable Transportation ◽  
Assessment Tools ◽  
Integrated Analysis ◽  
Health Dimension ◽  
Ghg Reduction ◽  
The Impact

This study aims to understand how the health dimension is integrated into four impact assessment tools used in Geneva, Switzerland: environmental impact assessment (EIA), strategic environmental assessment (SEA), sustainability assessment (SA) and health impact assessment (HIA). We have chosen as a case study greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction policies chosen by the city of Geneva. The methodological approach consists in analysing EIA, SEA, SA and HIA conducted on three projects in three topic areas: urban planning, heating and transportation. These projects are: a complex urbanisation plan in an urban neighbourhood in Geneva (the Gare des Eaux-Vives project), a sustainable transportation plan for a central district in Geneva (the St-Gervais transportation project) and a strategy to encourage the City’s employees to use sustainable transport for local business travel. The results show some shortcomings in the consideration of health in SEA, EIA and SA. This work highlights a narrow vision of health in SEA and EIA, limiting itself to a review of the effects of projects on the determinants of the physical environment as required by the legislation relating to these tools. EIA does not require the integration of the health dimension. As for SA, our research found that health is treated much more superficially than in HIA and primarily through the analysis of ‘health and safety’ criteria. It appears from this work that HIA is the tool which provides the most elaborate assessment, compared to SA, SEA or EIA, of the consequences for health of the GHG reduction policies chosen by the local decision-makers of a city. However, our study suggests that the HIA community should identify the situations in which HIA should be carried out and in which cases it is better to include health issues within an integrated analysis.

Sustainable infrastructure development challenges through PPP procurement process

2017 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
pp. 642-662 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nilesh Agarchand ◽  
Boeing Laishram
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Impact Assessment ◽  
Social Impact ◽  
Sustainability Assessment ◽  
Governance Structure ◽  
Theory Approach ◽  
Infrastructure Development ◽  
Sustainable Infrastructure ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Procurement Process

Purpose Infrastructure development through public-private partnership (PPP) route in India has exhibited concerns about not promoting progress toward sustainable development goals, particularly social and environmental perspectives. The purpose of this paper is, therefore, to identify the shortcomings in the Indian PPP procurement process using the key principles of sustainability. Design/methodology/approach Qualitative research inquiry through grounded theory approach by using the literature and interview source was used to identify the challenges encountered in sustainable infrastructure development of PPP projects. These challenges were, first, reviewed from the perspectives of key sustainability principles and then discussed with the key stakeholders through focused interviews. Furthermore, micro-interlocutor analysis was carried to get an insight on the extent of consensus amongst the experts regarding these identified shortfalls. Findings The key shortfalls identified from the study that adversely affect progress toward sustainable development include incomprehensive environmental impact assessment and social impact assessment studies; lack of stakeholder and local participation; high bidding and transaction cost; high user charges; improper risk allocation; lack of transparency and accountability; goal conflicts between public and private sector; and lack of skill and knowledge about sustainability. Practical implications The study findings will help in devising appropriate strategies for enhancing the mechanisms, policies, and governance structure of PPP process in order to overcome these shortfalls and help in accomplishing the goals of sustainability while developing infrastructure even through PPP route. Originality/value The paper presents different insights into PPP from sustainability perspective which has not been the focus of the current studies on PPPs. Sustainability assessment of PPP procurement is an area of research which is in a nascent stage.

scholarly journals Context-Based Neighborhood Sustainability Assessment in Birmingham, Alabama

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (22) ◽  
pp. 9426
Author(s):  
Jimmy Hilley ◽  
Sunhui Sim
Keyword(s):  
Public Policy ◽  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Sustainability Assessment ◽  
Local Level ◽  
Sustainability Indicators ◽  
Rating System ◽  
Rating Systems ◽  
Geographical Patterns ◽  
Neighborhood Scale ◽  
The City

Sustainability assessment is widely used to monitor public policy toward sustainable development (SD). However, such tools have been less developed at the local level. This research examined sustainability indicators (SIs) applied at the neighborhood scale. The indicators were developed by examination of previously developed sustainability rating systems and issues specific to the City of Birmingham, Alabama, USA. The indicators of Neighborhood Sustainability Assessment (NSA) systems addressed the three major dimensions of sustainability: economic, environmental, and social. The rating system was applied to all neighborhoods, and geographical patterns were analyzed. The ability to analyze the sustainability of all neighborhoods within the city provides information on which areas are performing well and which areas need more attention to become more sustainable.

Relative sustainability assessment of five European projects aiming to reduce rainwater volume in sewer systems

2007 ◽  
Vol 2 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Louise Hurley ◽  
S.R. Mounce ◽  
Richard Ashley
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Wastewater Treatment ◽  
Sustainability Assessment ◽  
Hydrological Cycle ◽  
Local Level ◽  
High Energy ◽  
Natural State ◽  
Management Options ◽  
Pilot Studies ◽  
Sewer Systems

Excess rainwater in sewer systems creates problems including sewer overflow leading to flooding, inefficient wastewater treatment, overloading of wastewater treatment plants, production of large amounts of sludge, high energy demands and non-replenishment of groundwater. These effects are a problem in areas where rainwater, runoff and sewage are collected in the same system, and are likely to be exacerbated by the effects of climate change and traditional methods of new development. The ‘No Rainwater In Sewers’ (NORIS) project comprises pilot studies in Sweden, Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and the UK, all of which attempt in different ways to return the hydrological cycle to a more natural state at a local level by adaptation of existing sewerage systems. The aim of the work presented here is to determine the relative contribution of the chosen techniques to sustainable development. The research illustrates the difficulties faced in urban water of addressing all sustainability principles equally and gives details on the development of a structured framework that will compare the water management options chosen and inform stakeholders of how decisions are made, which is not only necessary under the auspices of the European Water Framework Directive, but is also more rational in terms of sustainable development.

The Implementation Approach of LCCF Checklist in Development Control: Challenges for policymakers

2019 ◽  
Vol 4 (12) ◽  
Author(s):  
T B A
Keyword(s):  
Climate Change ◽  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Carbon Emissions ◽  
Local Authority ◽  
Survey Methods ◽  
Local Level ◽  
Control Process ◽  
Low Carbon ◽  
Local Authorities ◽  
Development Control

Global warming, climate change is now affecting the world. The effort of the leaders to achieving the sustainable development is from New Urban Agenda (NUA), Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) and local level is local authorities.  SDG’s goal number 13 takes urgent action to combat climate change and its impact also SDG’s number 11 to sustainable cities and communities. The gap of this paper  Different cities face different challenges and issues. Local authorities will play a significant role in undertaking policy initiatives to combat carbon emissions of the city. Low Carbon Cities (LCC) is to reduce carbon emissions in all human activities in cities.  The objective of this paper is by applying the LCCF Checklist in planning permission for sustainable development. The methodology of this research is a mixed-method, namely quantitative and qualitative approach. The survey methods are by interview, questionnaire, and observation. Town planners are the subject matter expert in managing the planning permission submission for the development control of their areas. Descriptive statistical analysis will be used to show the willingness of the stakeholders, namely the developers and planning consultants in implementing of the LCCF. The contribution of this research will gauge readiness at the local authorities level. The findings of the LCCF checklist are identified as important in planning permission into the development control process. Surprisingly, that challenges and issues exist in multifaceted policy implementation the LCCF Checklist in a local authority. Finally based on Subang Jaya Municipal Councils, the existing approach in the application of the LCCF Checklist in the development control process will be useful for development control in a local authority towards sustainable development.  

Engaging Youth in Education for Sustainable Development: Strategies and Interventions

2015 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Khushgeet Kaur
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Human Rights ◽  
Social Change ◽  
Young Women ◽  
Local Level ◽  
Education For Sustainable Development ◽  
Development Strategies ◽  
Children And Youth ◽  
Opportunities To Learn ◽  
The World

Although youth are often thought of as targets for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) programmes, they are also active partners in creating a more sustainable world and effective ESD programmes. Today, more than ever, young women and men are change-makers, building new realities for themselves and their communities. All over the world, youth are driving social change and innovation, claiming respect for their fundamental human rights and freedoms, and seeking new opportunities to learn and work together for a better future. The education sector is generally seen as the most appropriate forum for involving children and youth in sustainable development, and initiatives to this end have been adopted in many countries. The present paper puts forth such initiatives, interventions and strategies that can be undertaken to engage youth in education for sustainable development at the global as well as the local level.

scholarly journals Sustainability Assessment and Agricultural Supply Chains Evidence-Based Multidimensional Analyses as Tools for Strategic Decision-Making—The Case of the Pineapple Supply Chain in Benin

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (4) ◽  
pp. 2060
Author(s):  
Doriane Desclee ◽  
David Sohinto ◽  
Freddy Padonou
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Developing Countries ◽  
Supply Chains ◽  
Agricultural Sector ◽  
Sustainability Assessment ◽  
Assessment Tools ◽  
Strategic Decision ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Agricultural Supply

Contributing to Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2030 is a shared objective of all institutions and people. The challenges differ according to the characteristics of every context. In developing countries, strongly dependent on the agricultural sector, agricultural supply chains are recognized as crucial for economic growth and enablers for livelihood improvement. Moreover, sustainable development issues are correlated and can meet in agricultural supply chains. For several decades, parallel to decision-makers, the research community has elaborated sustainability assessment tools. Such tools evolved to fit with actuality, but it is challenging to find decision-making support tools for sustainable development adequate in agricultural supply chains and developing countries contexts. There is a necessity to define evidence-based tools and exhaustive analytical frameworks according to sustainability multidimensionality and strategical tradeoffs necessity. The VCA4D method aims to go beyond the limits of previous methods. It proposes a combination of multidisciplinary analytical tools applied empirically to analyze agricultural supply chains in their context. It provides evidence-based analytical results allowing to identify enablers for strategic sustainable and inclusive interventions. However, to even better meet contextual exhaustiveness’s expectations and indicators’ robustness to lead to relevant interventions, we should insist on a stricter framing of contextual data collection processes.

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