Comparative analysis of indicator-based urban sustainability assessment frameworks

Abstract

Sustainability indicators are widely used to assess city sustainability. Based on published articles and peer reviews, the aims of this systematic review is threefold: (1) to determine which indicator categories (sustainability pillars) are commonly applied to assess city sustainability, (2) to define what limitations exist with regard to indicator categories, and (3) to assess which governance indicators are currently applied. It is proposed that the lack of consensus on and commitment to a clear definition of sustainable development – particularly regarding the number of ‘pillars’ of sustainability and the question of whether a three- or four-pillar approach is preferable – leads to ambiguity and inconsistency in the application of sustainability indicators to assess cities. The representation of governance in sustainable city indicator frameworks is found to be lacking, despite the vital role that it plays in ensuring the sustainable city concept. To move forward with indicator-based city sustainability assessments the following recommendations are made: (1) a clear definition of city sustainable development should be decided upon; (2) this definition should take into account the ‘fourth pillar’ of sustainable development, i.e. governance; and (3) further research should be conducted into the definition of governance itself and into the method through which it can be represented by indicators. Highlights: • There is no clear commitment to either the 3- or 4-pillar sustainability definition. • City case studies more commonly employ a 3-pillar definition of sustainability. • Governance is underrepresented in sustainable city indicator frameworks. • A clear 4-pillar definition of sustainable development is recommended.