Sustainable uses of urban open space : a guide to the literature

Abstract

The first paper is a review of the secondary literature that has been published on various subject areas related to the field of urban green space planning. In accordance with the mandate of this series-to give an overview and commentary on the current state of research on a topic relevant to the theme of urban sustainability accessible to a wide audience-this paper is a "guide to the literature" for academics, professionals and others with an interest in the topic, but who are not necessarily experts. The second paper reviews the literature concerning urban sustainability and environmental impact assessment (EIA). It begins with a brief overview of what sustainable development means and then examines the environmental impacts of urbanization. Given that modern urban settlements are energy and resource-intensive, and depend on resources from non-urban regions, can cities really become sustainable? After considering this question, this paper looks at the role of EIA in sustainable development. Following a discussion of the positive and negative features of EIA, the paper draws together suggestions for improving the practice of EIA in urbanized areas.