Sustainable neighbourhoods are designed to be environmentally, socially, and economically viable for the long term. While they can vary in form, they share several key characteristics that promote a high quality of life with a lower environmental footprint.
Based on common characteristics, a sustainable neighbourhood is typically a relatively compact, mixed-use community with good access to transit and incorporating a range of housing options, workplaces, parks, amenities, shops and services. These elements work together to create a vibrant, convenient, and resilient place to live.
Key Characteristics of Sustainable Neighbourhoods
Sustainable neighbourhoods are defined by their integrated design and focus on accessibility and community. Here are the core features:
1. Compact Design
- Relatively Compact: Sustainable neighbourhoods often have higher densities than traditional suburbs. This compact layout reduces sprawl, preserves open spaces, and makes walking, cycling, and public transit more feasible.
- Benefits:
- Efficient use of land.
- Reduced infrastructure costs (roads, pipes, utilities).
- Shorter distances between destinations.
2. Mixed-Use Development
- Mixed-Use Communities: Instead of separating residential, commercial, and office areas, sustainable neighbourhoods integrate them. This means people can live, work, shop, and access services within close proximity.
- Examples:
- Ground-floor retail with apartments above.
- Offices situated near residential buildings and restaurants.
- Combining schools or community centres with parks and playgrounds.
3. Excellent Transit Access
- Good Access to Transit: A hallmark of sustainable neighbourhoods is reliable and convenient public transportation options, such as buses, trains, or trams. This reduces reliance on private cars.
- Practical Insights:
- Neighbourhoods are often designed around transit hubs or corridors.
- Safe and accessible pathways connect homes and businesses to transit stops.
- Integration with regional transit networks is crucial.
4. Diversity of Uses and Facilities
Sustainable neighbourhoods incorporate a variety of essential functions and places, reducing the need to travel long distances. This includes:
- A Range of Housing Options: Offering diverse housing types (apartments, townhouses, single-family homes, etc.) and sizes caters to different income levels and life stages, promoting social equity.
- Workplaces: Allowing people to work within or close to their neighbourhood cuts down on commuting time and traffic congestion.
- Parks: Providing green spaces, parks, and recreational areas is vital for health, well-being, and community interaction.
- Amenities: Essential facilities like libraries, community centres, and healthcare clinics are easily accessible.
- Shops and Services: Daily needs, from groceries and pharmacies to dry cleaners and cafes, are available locally, supporting the local economy and reducing travel.
Summary Table of Features
| Feature | Description | Sustainability Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Compact | Efficient use of land, higher density | Reduces sprawl, preserves open space, efficient travel |
| Mixed-Use | Integrating residential, commercial, office, and services | Shorter travel distances, vibrant community |
| Transit Access | Good access to public transportation | Reduces car dependence, lower emissions, reduced traffic |
| Diverse Housing | Range of types and affordability | Social equity, caters to diverse populations |
| Local Facilities | Workplaces, Parks, Amenities, Shops, Services nearby | Convenience, supports local economy, encourages walking |
These features collectively create neighbourhoods that are not only environmentally responsible but also more livable, equitable, and economically resilient.
